2012 dodge journey problems

Dodge Journey Problems: 8 Common Issues (Explained)

The most common problems and possible solutions are listed below.

Table of Contents

Remote Keyless Entry System Works Intermittently

If your remote keyless entry system starts acting weird and only working sometimes, you might get frustrated.

It’s a huge inconvenience not to have technology work the way you expect it to. But, there’s an easy fix for the problem.

Probable Causes and Solutions

The most common reason your Dodge Journey remote keyless entry system may begin working intermittently is because there is a problem with the component’s software .

Usually, updating the software will correct the problem.

If you upgrade the software and continue to have problems with the remote keyless ignition system, you should visit a Dodge dealership and have the problem diagnosed.

If the problem isn’t related to a software update, it could be an issue with the keyfob itself. If the keyfob has gone bad, it might be necessary to replace the keyfob.

A Dodge-certified technician can also upgrade the software for you.

Unexplained Dampness Inside a Dodge Journey

If you enter your vehicle and notice unexplained dampness, it could create an uncomfortable ride and be upsetting. Afterall, water isn’t supposed to leak inside a vehicle.

But unexplained dampness inside the vehicle of the Journey is a common problem, and is easily fixed.

Most often, especially in models 2009 to 2018, unexplained dampness in the interior of the Journey is from a water leak .

Improperly sealed body seams can let water into the vehicle and create dampness.

If this is the reason your Journey is getting wet inside, the problem can be fixed by having the seals replaced and properly installed.

Engine Overheating Due to Coolant Flow Problem

If your Dodge Journey was made between 2009 and 2018, you may have issues with your engine overheating. It seems the problem can occur at anytime during the Journey’s existence.

Vehicles with as low as 20,000 miles have experienced this issue as well as Journeys with well over 100,000 miles too.

Usually, it needs diagnosed by a Dodge mechanic. But, there are easy solutions to prevent this problem from happening again.

If you have debris in your engine, it could cause a coolant flow issue.

If there’s a disruption in your coolant flow, the engine could overheat.

If not corrected, an engine overheating could cause serious damage to the engine. When debris blocks the cylinder head at the coolant port of the thermostat housing, the right amount of coolant won’t reach the engine.

Removing the debris from the engine and especially around this port fixes the problem.

Check Engine Light with Diagnostic Code P0339

If your check engine light comes on, it’s a good idea to have a diagnostic test to determine what the cause of the warning is.

If you get a P0339 code, there is probably a problem with the vehicle’s crankshaft position sensor.

This issue is most common with 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2016 Dodge Journeys. Also, check our list of typical reasons the check engine light appears .

The crankshaft position sensor check engine light code will cause intermittent loss of power to this component.

To correct this problem, a technician may be able to add a shim to the crankshaft sensor .

If this does not correct the problem, it might be necessary to replace the sensor and flex plate.

Inaccurate Speed Settings and/or Excessive RPMs

If you notice your Journey is revving high or showing that you’re driving excessively, you might have a problem with the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM).

This is even more likely if you notice the problem when using cruise control.

Thankfully, inaccurate speed settings and unusually high RPMs can be related to an issue with the Journey’s software.

In most cases, updating the software for the powertrain control module (PCM) will correct the problem.

Updating the software can be done at a Dodge dealership.

Dodge Journey Seats Showing Signs of Corrosion

Dodge Journey 2009, 2010, and 2013 Journeys may show signs of wear, specifically around the seat frames.

If you notice rust around the vehicle’s seat frames, it’s important not to ignore the problem.

Instead, you should take the vehicle to a Dodge dealership to have corrosion inhibitor in the affected areas. There are also revised covers for the second row available to help prevent the issue from progressing.

Rough Idle after Cold Start on Dodge Journey with V6 Engines

2009 and 2010 Dodge Journey drivers have reported rough idling after a cold start .

The problem usually only occurs with Journeys equipped with a V6 engine.

Sometimes when this happens, a check engine light will come on. Diagnostic testing will show code P050D.

If your vehicle is showing a P050D diagnostic code, the rough idling after a cold start could be due to a problem with the powertrain control module (PCM).

After a mechanic diagnoses the problem, they can tell you whether a software upgrade will correct the issue, or if a replacement part is needed.

Dodge Journey is Stuck in Park

There’s nothing more frustrating then getting in your vehicle and realizing it won’t start. If your Journey is stuck in park, you will need to see a technician to have the problem corrected.

Dodge is aware of this problem and has issued a recall to correct the issue.

A Journey shifter getting stuck in park is likely due to the material used to create the shifter .

Making an appointment at a Dodge dealership will give technicians the opportunity to replace the parts and ensure you’re vehicle shifts every time you need it too.

Dodge Journey Brakes Wearing Out Prematurely

Some people go through brake pads faster than others, but if you drive a Dodge Journey, it might not be your fault. When the car manufacturer created the 2009 and 2010 Journeys, they did so with the best SUV technology and developed a crossover vehicle that was pleasurable to drive.

But they added brakes that were more suitable to a sedan.

The sedan brakes created a need for new brakes at just about 12,000 miles.

Dodge drivers filed a class-action lawsuit that extended the warranty of the vehicle’s brakes by three years.

If you notice your brakes have worn out quickly on your Journey, it’s a good idea to have them checked out.

Of course, it’s also important to have the parts replaced as needed to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive.

General Pros and Cons of the Dodge Journey

• Third-row seating
• Easy to drive
• Handles well
• Lots of storage compartments
• Optional V6 engine available
• Attractive styling
• Comfortable interior
• Problems with electronics
• Water leaks
• Rough idling
• Vehicle gets stuck in park
• RPMs revving too high
• Early corrosion on components
• Brakes wearing out prematurely

Go back : problems for all Dodge models here .

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ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.

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Dodge Journey

Reliability

Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how used vehicles are holding up in 17 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical system.

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A typical model has about 200 to 400 samples for each model year. For some model years, typically those of older or less popular cars, we do not have a large enough sample size to provide results of statistical confidence.

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2012 Dodge Journey Review

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Edmunds' Expert Review

• Sophisticated interior
• family-friendly size
• available built-in booster seats
• strong V6 engine
• smart touchscreen interface.
• Overmatched four-cylinder
• less utilitarian than competitors.

Besides changes to its trim names and structure, the 2012 Dodge Journey is essentially unchanged.

Edmunds says

Though not quite a class leader, the 2012 Dodge Journey has enough positive attributes to make it worthy of consideration.

Cost to Drive Cost to drive estimates for the 2012 Dodge Journey American Value Package 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.47 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Vehicle overview.

Once, the Dodge Journey was only a good idea compromised by half-hearted execution. Slow, ponderous and inefficient on the highway, it was further flawed by an interior that didn't fit the human form and seemed poorly made besides. Usually it takes an entirely new model to turn around such a wayward ship, but Dodge managed to bail out its midsize crossover with a bold makeover last year. The result is a compact sport-utility that suddenly is worth considering as a family hauler.

The 2012 Dodge Journey slots into the crossover SUV fray alongside tweener-sized vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Like the RAV4, the Journey offers a small third-row seat that is useful for occasionally taking on a couple of extra kids. With or without the third row, however, the Journey strikes a right-sized balance for shoppers looking for something to schlep the family around without stepping up to costlier, thirstier and more cumbersome models like the Dodge Durango and Toyota Highlander.

While the base-model Journey's four-cylinder engine remains underpowered and not especially fuel-efficient, the 3.6-liter V6 is one of the more robust engines in this vehicle segment and offers decent fuel economy. Changes made to the steering and suspension last year also make the Journey much better to drive. The most notable improvement to the Journey is within the cabin, where higher-quality materials, a pleasing design and Chrysler's latest (and very good) technology features are on display. Meanwhile, the wealth of good ideas still remains, including clever hidden storage bins and available integrated child seats.

Thanks to its well-rounded nature, the 2012 Dodge Journey easily earns our approval. Of course, its competition remains tough to beat. Both the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are fully redesigned this year, boasting higher fuel economy and more refined driving dynamics than last year's versions. You might also want to check out the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Forester. But overall the Journey is a smart pick for a small crossover, particularly with the V6 engine.

Performance & mpg

The 2012 Dodge Journey SE is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard. Its EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined -- not great given its anemic acceleration and thriftier competitors.

The Journey SXT and Crew get a 3.6-liter V6 good for 283 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It gets a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive standard, but all-wheel drive is optional. At the track we recorded a 7.5-second 0-60-mph time for a Journey V6 FWD, an average time for the class. Its fuel economy stands at 17/25/20 with front-wheel drive and 16/24/19 with all-wheel drive. These are on par with the Chevy Equinox, but worse than other V6-powered small crossovers.

Every 2012 Dodge Journey comes standard with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, active front head restraints, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag. Integrated second-row child booster seats are optional on every Journey. In Edmunds brake testing, a Journey V6 FWD came to a stop from 60 mph in 121 feet, an average performance for its segment.

In government crash tests, the Journey received four out of five stars for overall crash protection, with four stars awarded for frontal impact protection and five stars for overall side impact protection. In crash testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Journey received the top score of "Good" in the frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests.

The four-cylinder engine found in the base 2012 Dodge Journey SE just doesn't have enough power to get this heavy crossover moving. It also doesn't provide the fuel economy to justify its dawdling pace. As such, we'd avoid it and step up to the SXT and its 3.6-liter V6. This engine is quickly spreading throughout the Chrysler lineup, and for good reason: It offers smooth, robust power and decent fuel economy. Unfortunately, its six-speed transmission can be slow to respond when a downshift (or two) is needed. On the move, the Journey is competent for the class, with a smooth ride and secure handling.

The interior wasn't the only thing that was overhauled last year. Changes to the suspension and steering gear completely transformed the driving experience. Handling feels much more confident, and the steering is now much more precise and predictable, with a light but still nicely weighted feel to it. So it's improved, although a Honda CR-V will likely feel more agile around town, while the Chevy Equinox provides an even more comfortable and quiet ride on the freeway.

Last year's overhaul transformed the Journey's interior from one of the worst among compact/midsize crossovers to one of the best. The materials are better in quality and texture, the design is clean and modern, and its up-to-the-minute technology is pretty easy to use. We especially like the extra-large touchscreen interface available on most models.

Ongoing strengths for the Journey are its clever storage bins and integrated child seats that make it decidedly family-friendly. Also helping that cause is a versatile seating arrangement. While the sliding and reclining second-row seat is now the norm for this size of crossover, its optional third-row seat is not. Like the Toyota RAV4's, this seat is far from adult-friendly, but if you need to take a few extra kids to a T-ball game, it should come in handy.

In terms of storage space, the Journey offers a total capacity of 68 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. That's a few cubic feet smaller than the RAV4 and CR-V, but bigger than the Chevy Equinox. For smaller items, the Journey does its best Millennium Falcon impersonation with storage bins hidden under the second-row floor as well as under the passenger seat.

2012 Dodge Journey models

The 2012 Dodge Journey is available in five- and seven-passenger configurations. It is available in American Value Package, SE, SXT, R/T and Crew trim levels.

The American Value Package comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, cruise control, dual-zone manual climate control, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a sliding and reclining second-row seat and a six-speaker sound system (with a compact touchscreen interface, a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack, an iPod/USB audio interface and steering wheel controls). The SE adds privacy tinted glass, side roof rails and LED taillights.

Moving up to the SXT adds a V6 engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, foglamps, LED taillamps, a cargo cover and satellite radio. A premium sound system and 19-inch wheels are optional.

The Comfort/Convenience Group available on both the SE and SXT adds a six-way power driver seat with four-way power lumbar adjustment, a fold-flat passenger seatback and a storage bin under the passenger seat. The Premium Group available on the SE is identical, but includes satellite radio as well. The Popular Equipment Group includes all of the above plus remote ignition, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, an outside temperature gauge, a compass, and on the SE, 17-inch alloy wheels. Also available is a larger infotainment touchscreen.

These optional items come standard on the Crew, which also gets automatic headlamps, 19-inch wheels, chrome-like exterior trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a premium audio system and Bluetooth (stand-alone option on SE and SXT). Optional on the Crew are a sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system and leather upholstery that brings with it heated front seats.

The R/T (which arrives later in the model year) will add a monochrome exterior, special 19-inch wheels and black leather upholstery with red stitching. Otherwise, it is equipped similarly to the Crew.

The Flexible Seating Group available on every Journey adds a folding/reclining third-row seat and three-zone automatic climate control with rear air-conditioning. Integrated second-row child booster seats are also optional on every Journey, while a navigation system is available on all but the SE.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Consumer reviews, read what other owners think about the used 2012 dodge journey., trending topics in reviews.

• handling & steering
• ride quality
• driving experience
• fuel efficiency
• infotainment system
• acceleration
• climate control
• maintenance & parts
• transmission
• spaciousness
• wheels & tires
• emission system
• sound system
• reliability & manufacturing quality

Most helpful consumer reviews

(2012 sxt) took a while, but ..., a different perspective, extended warranty 3.6l 2011-2013 journey to 10yr 150,000 miles on left cylinder head, 2012 journey highlights.

• Tire Pressure Warning
• Stability Control
• Post-collision safety system

NHTSA Overall Rating

• Frontal Barrier Crash Rating Overall 4 / 5 Driver 5 / 5 Passenger 4 / 5
• Side Crash Rating Overall 5 / 5
• Side Barrier Rating Overall 5 / 5 Driver 5 / 5 Passenger 4 / 5
• Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings Front Seat 5 / 5 Back Seat 4 / 5
• Rollover Rollover 4 / 5 Dynamic Test Result No Tip Risk Of Rollover 18.5%
• Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test Not Tested
• Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test Not Tested
• Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original Good
• Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated Not Tested
• Side Impact Test – Original Good
• Side Impact Test – Updated Not Tested
• Roof Strength Test Good
• Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint Good

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Best and worst Dodge Journey years — which to avoid

We explored the best and worst dodge journey years, pinpointing the models with the most issues and collecting honest opinions from owners, all to offer you an insightful overview of its historical reliability..

Before the discontinuation, the Dodge Journey was one of the best mid-size SUVs produced for a dozen generations, and Dodge didn’t give up on it due to reliability issues. However, that doesn’t mean you can just go ahead and buy any model as some model years have received quite a few complaints.

Don’t go searching through the market just yet, since our team decided to give you all the important details in one guide. We’ve scanned the NHTSA records on common complaints and recalls to give you a complete picture of best years to buy and worst Dodge Journey years to avoid . On top of that, we’ve gone an extra step as we reached out to real Journey owners for their accounts and experiences, so stay tuned for the details.

Why you can trust REREV’s advice on which car model years to avoid: Our car experts look at official data, ask real drivers what they think, and talk to experienced mechanics to make sure our list is useful. This reliable info can make buying a car easier for you. Want to know how we do it? Find out more about our research methodology .

How we rated the best and worst Dodge Journey years

During our evaluation of the Dodge Journey as a model, we’ve gone through the reports on various model years based on several sources. First, we relied on trustworthy organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and we went through their records including details on recalls and common driver complaints.

After that, we’ve done some more digging on Dodge Journey recalls through reliable platforms like Cars.com, as well as sources of authority like Edmunds and Kelly Blue Book. As mentioned, we wanted to give you honest Dodge Journey reviews and we could only do that by citing some forums with real experiences of previous drivers and Journey owners.

Most common Dodge Journey problems

The Dodge Journey might be a safe and reliable vehicle. However, it is not exempt from faults and flaws. Among the Dodge Journey most common problems you could run upon are brake problems, defective remote keyless entry systems, interior water leaks, or even damaged head gaskets, so we’ll discuss each of those in more detail.

1. Overheating engine

Engine issues are a common issue in faulty Dodge Journey model years. For the Dodge Journey, these problems happened in the 2009-2016 model years, causing overheating once they hit the 78,000-mile mark. This problem is likely caused by coolant flow challenges due to debris locking the cylinder head coolant port at its primary thermostat housing.

At first, the vehicle’s temperature light may turn on, but this worsens over time. Some Journey owners complained that their vehicles experienced engine power loss , leading to overheating. The vehicle may also develop coolant leaks, which become excessive for its overflow reservoir, causing coolant fluid to spill over.

These engine problems are usually expensive and dangerous, depending on where they happen. For a driver, you don’t want to encounter engine issues every day.

2. Brake problems

Brake issues were the most common troubles that plagued the Dodge Journey, especially its 2009-2010 model years. The brakes on these models wear out prematurely , which happens to relatively new Journey vehicles at about 30,000 miles. Some drivers mentioned that this issue has become severe, requiring them to replace their brakes every three months.

The abovementioned issues are among the few brake-related problems you could face if you purchase a problematic Dodge Journey model year. These issues are inconvenient and dangerous, especially for driving at high speeds. You want to avoid a vehicle that struggles with maintaining proper brakes. 

3. Defective remote keyless entry system

The Dodge Journey has many cool features, and the remote keyless system is supposed to be one of them. Instead, the keyless system is another Dodge Journey feature that has become problematic for drivers.

Many frustrated owners complain that the system doesn’t work correctly as it gives off either wrong key readings or the annoying “key not detected” message. The system sometimes interferes with the key fob, preventing drivers from locking or unlocking the doors. To fix this issue, owners may need to do a software update.

4. Interior water leaks

Some owners of the 2009-2018 Dodge Journey models have expressed discomfort caused by dampness inside the cabin. The cabin appears vulnerable to water leaks , typically at a low mileage of about 50,000 to 60,000 miles. According to complaints from owners, the driver’s seat floor of the Dodge Journey may become wet when they travel in the rain.

Other drivers complained that they noticed leaks near the side of the Journey, causing wet floors and carpets. Additionally, some drivers reported leaks near windows, headliners, and vents, and you may need a professional to fix the leaks and resolve the issue.

5. Damaged head gasket

This is another notorious Dodge Journey issue among vehicle owners. Drivers note that this problem commonly happens at about 100,000 miles. It might begin with performance issues and graduate to engine failure over time. This may be due to cracked or damaged head gaskets.

Some drivers have reported having leaky or blown head gaskets , causing severe damage to the engine. Experts recommend a compression test to verify if your Journey has faulty head gaskets. If they are defective, you may replace them yourself if you are a DIYer or have a professional do the job.

Worst Dodge Journey years to avoid

The Dodge Journey has had several great models; however, there are also some model years you should avoid if you intend to purchase a Dodge Journey. Below is a list of Journey model years to avoid:

Naturally, our team will get you through all these model years and their issues so you can have an easier time picking the most reliable Journey model.

First-generation Journey (2009-2012 model years)

The 2009 Dodge Journey was the first model of this generation, and it was associated with numerous problems and complaints from drivers. Its prevalent issue was with the brakes, and many drivers complained of frequent brake replacements within a short timeframe. These drivers point out that the vehicle is too heavy for the brake pads and rotors.

Other drivers reported that regardless of how gentle you are with the vehicle, it doesn’t stop the brakes from wearing out at 30,000 miles or earlier. Additionally, the braking power isn’t sufficient for the size of the vehicle and can lead to disastrous accidents in the worst cases.

Another issue of the 2009 model year was with its transmission, which caused rough gear shifting . Some drivers complained that shifting the vehicle out of the first gear was difficult, especially during cold weather. Also, several drivers report that their transmission fails at around 60,000 miles, causing them to abandon the vehicle.

The 2009 and 2010 models were also plagued by electrical faults that prevented the engine from turning over, which may be caused by the neutral safety switch losing communication with the shifter. Most drivers had to put their vehicles in neutral to get the engine to start up. Some drivers also complained that they experience these issues on other components like the horn, windows, radios, etc.

2011 Dodge model year also had issues with the brakes, but unlike the 2009-2010 models, which had brakes that required premature replacements , the 2011 model had brakes that made grinding and squealing sounds. In addition to the noises, drivers complain that their 2011 Journey shakes the steering wheel while braking.

Best Dodge Journey years

The Dodge Journey has several years, which drivers have confirmed to be reliable while offering remarkable performance. So, are you still wondering what are the best Dodge Journey years to buy? The best Dodge Journey years are 2005, 2017, and 2020. Still, there’s a full list of best-rated models:

These Dodge Journey models are some of the best years to date and provide excellent performance. If you are searching for the best Journey years to buy, these years are great choices, and they would give little to no problems without any cause for expensive repairs.

2005 Dodge Journey

Based on all the available NHTSA records and reliability reports, the 2005 Dodge Journey is the best model to date. It only received a few complaints including some engine cooling difficulties, but none of those reports were sufficient to place the model on a list of problematic years.

With a clean reliability record , the model scored a decent overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on reliable automotive agencies.

2017 Dodge Journey

As for the later model years, the 2017 Dodge Journey made it to the list as one of the most reliable options. It received model-specific concerns with some of the main complaints being related to A/C heater faults and electrical malfunctions.

2020 Dodge Journey

Finally, we can’t leave out the 2020 Journey model which also proved to be pretty reliable with just under 10 reliability concerns. Among those, drivers have mostly reported problems with seat belts and brakes, while the model received an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 on Cars.com and similar sources.

Is the Dodge Journey worth buying?

The Dodge Journey is an excellent SUV with remarkable performance. However, it doesn’t have a reasonable edge over its rivals, as consumers complain that the vehicle is made from cheap interior materials and lacks a host of safety features that can be found in most competitors.

If you’re eyeing versatile SUVs check out Ford Explorer Sport Trac years to avoid , Nissan Xterra years to avoid , or Mitsubishi Outlander years to avoid . While these vehicles are known for their ruggedness and capability, it’s vital to consider that not all model years have lived up to expectations.

What is the most common problem with the Dodge Journey?

The remote keyless entry system is Dodge Journey’s most reported issue. According to drivers, the system gives off the wrong readings or the u0022key not detectedu0022 message.

Is a Dodge Journey a reliable car?

The Dodge Journey is reliable as long as you keep away from its worst model years.

How many miles can you expect from a Dodge Journey?

The Dodge Journey can last up to 200,00 miles under ideal maintenance conditions.

Should I buy a Dodge Journey?

Yes, you can buy a Dodge Journey; however, you want to avoid buying its worst years. Also, it would be best if you considered its interior before making a purchase. 

Filip is a lifelong car enthusiast with over 3 years of experience writing about cars and had worked as a mechanic apprentice for over 5 years, gaining hands-on expertise in automotive mechanics. At REREV, he combines his passion for cars with his comprehensive knowledge to provide readers with a unique blend of technical insight and engaging storytelling that sets the bar high for automotive content.

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Dodge Journey Problems & Complaints: Are The Issues Worth Buying?

Last updated

November 15, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Dodge Journey 2009 and 2010 editions have potential electrical issues that can be hard to diagnose
• Brake issues have an effect on early Dodge Journeys, but are helped by keeping an eye and ear on your brake pads and braking ability
• The Journey has had small issues with water leaking into the cabin.
• More recent years of Journey have some far better mechanically.
• The Journey is a budget SUV that works well for families

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‍ Do Dodge Journey's problems make it worth considering buying? Let’s explore what is happening with the SUV so you know what to expect.

The Dodge Journey is a fairly young vehicle and started with some problems. In 2009 and 2010, the Journey had some problems with brakes wearing out too quickly. The family crossover has also had problems with electrical components inside the car.

We use information from places like CarComplaints.com as well as government resources that receive reports on vehicle issues. Having worked at a dealership for years, we like to communicate what is happening with the Dodge Journey and give our opinion about whether or not you should buy one.

Table of Contents

‍ Problems with the Dodge Journey

Dodge journey brake problems in 2009 models.

2009 was the first year of the Dodge Journey hitting the road as a crossover SUV. Initial vehicle models can rack up some complaints, and the Journey is no exception. Hundreds of people reported issues with premature brake wear on CarComplaints – exceeding 400 reported instances of brakes not lasting long. Multiple drivers reported replacing the brakes every year, with no particular report as to how many miles they put in. Still, putting new brakes on every year is not normal, and a sign that the brake system is not tuned correctly for the weight of the vehicle.

The big picture issue here is that people normally expect their brakes to last at least several years. While a brake pad is also designed to create some obvious signs that the brakes are wearing out, including a high-pitched squealing nose, and a lesser ability to slow down or stop.

While researching recalls for the Dodge Journey, we learned that this issue was never subject to recall. One possible solution is to have a different, heavier-duty set of brake pads available for the vehicle if they fit.

A single instance of replacing brakes isn't overly costly, but with the way the Journey wears down brakes, having to potentially replace rotors and brakes every year makes it a less wallet-friendly vehicle to drive.

Dodge Journey Electrical Issues in 2009 and 2010 models

We are talking about the 2009 and 2010 models again! This time, we found odd issues with the electrical and starter system. Multiple reports indicate that some Dodge Journey owners have to do weird things. One owner learned that the best way to start their vehicle was to attempt to shift it into neutral, then back to park, in order to engage an otherwise loose shifter cable. Another found that pulling and jostling the wiring harness made for an easier start.

These stories paint a broad issue: There isn't a single reason why Dodge Journeys of those models years are having a problem. It's not often the battery and could be a wiring harness, or apparently even a CD player that stays on when the keys are out of the ignition and the door closed. Unfortunately, we have experienced these same kinds of parasitic issues with the battery being drained or disconnected in another brand of vehicle, and can confirm that they are hard to diagnose.

Dodge Journey Coolant issues in 2009 and 2010

This seems to be focused heavily on a couple of years: the cylinder head port can be blocked with debris, preventing the flow or air and the communication of a need for coolant. This can result in overheating, though the problem is generally caught by vehicle warning systems. The problem is fixed by cleaning out the port head.

Dodge Journey Internal Water Leaks for Multiple Years

RepairPal isn't specific about which years are most affected by this problem, but we are guessing many of them. Most vehicles have rubber seals around the edges of the doors, in addition to the trunk, where the roof meets the side of the vehicle, and around the sunroof if it has one. These seals generally work well – at least for a while, and in most cases, you'll never have a wet interior unless you leave the window open.

There are a couple of hundred reports through RepairPal of leaks from the front floorboards of the vehicle, where water has been stored after rain or snow, and found its way into the vehicle.

Note that in a handful of reports, the drivers had been to a dealership or service center to have the air conditioning and heater worked on, and later learned that a mechanic had accidentally pinched a hose which caused an eventual leak. Still, the liquid shouldn't be able to get through.

Engine problems in the 2012 Dodge Journey

Most people read engine problems dreadfully. Fortunately, this one is rather rare but is still the most commonly reported problem in a 2012 Dodge Journey with just 9 reports – consider that a net positive.

The issue seems to be with a sudden oil leak within the Dodge Journey's engine. Oil leaks, especially sudden or unknown ones are the worst because the engine needs oil to keep running with proper lubrication. An engine without oil will soon be destroyed, and a very expensive fix.

Again, this problem is not very common!

Remote start not working on the Dodge Journey

RepairPal doesn't indicate which year, but this is mostly a minor inconvenience. Sometimes the remote keyless entry and remote start feature on a Dodge Journey might fail to work. So far, technicians have diagnosed the issue within the vehicle as a software problem that needs an update. We find this message a little confusing as most drivers have their original key FOB and are incapable of updating the vehicle, but as long as technicians can fix the problem, that's good.

Radio issues with the 2012 Dodge Journey

Dodge uses the UCONNECT system to run their radio, which includes Bluetooth, phone calls, and other communication equipment. The largest issue that has come of the UCONNECT system is actually while the radio tries to update. While we can appreciate that UCONNECT can attempt to update itself, it's not great that the radio can hang while trying to update and leave you without a radio.

Do these issues make the Dodge Journey worth buying?

Sure! Especially in model years 2013 or newer, Dodge has done a better job with build quality. There are far fewer complaints about more recent vehicles, which is a great sign that in the decade since Dodge built the Journey, they've taken care of business.

To be fair, you never see a lot of issues with vehicles built within the last couple of years because they haven't had time to get past their break-in period so problems could be coming, but we are hopeful.

Here is some reality too: The Dodge Journey represents a budget crossover SUV that could hold one, two, or a couple of kids too. Dodge tends to push more heavily for performance – which sometimes pushes quality control away. While Dodge has a relatively low customer satisfaction rate, it is worth noting that some vehicles like Toyota, Lexus, and Acura generally top those lists and cost significantly more.

You should also take a close look at the vehicle's service history, assuming you are buying a used Journey, especially in the 2009 range. Some of the above-mentioned issues might have already popped up and been fixed, though the brake issue isn't something a mechanic can necessarily do anything about besides replacing them.

In short, the chances of a catastrophic failure with a Dodge Journey are pretty low, especially in years after 2013.

About The Author

Tyler Herndon

Working as a restoration tech on exclusively Mopar offerings of the late 60’s and early 70’s honed the skills to build what I consider the most prestigious make of American cars of that era. The iconic slant six, behemoth 426 Hemi and everything in between shaped my view on the automotive world. I’ve translated those skills towards vehicles that “everyman” has access to enjoy and Mopar influence still plays a significant role.

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Dodge Journey 2012 Problems

Are you having problems with your 2012 Dodge Journey? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest 2012 Dodge Journey issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the 2012 Dodge Journey in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

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2012 Dodge Journey

• « 2012 Journey Overview
• Complaints 679
• Crash Tests 2
• Journey Recalls 6

2012 Dodge Journey Transmission Problems

Click on a problem below to read more..

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• Lunges Forward When Put In Reverse 1
• Shutters When Shifting Gears 1
• Transmission Failure 1
• NHTSA: Power Train: Automatic Transmission: Control Module (Tcm, ... 1

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