In theory, the Durango appears to be the perfect midsize SUV. It’s competent handling, a powerful transmission, impressive towing capacity and a barn-sized interior wrapped up in a macho exterior. However, consumers seem to have a love-hate relationship with the Mopar mall crawler. Durangos have had dozens of National Highway and Traffic Administration (NHTSA) recalls and their . But seven seats in hot rods on stilts is a welcome prospect for some. So which model years used Dodge Durango are the best?
1. 2022 Dodge Durango
The third generation Durango came in a plethora of trim levels. Its engine defined everyone, be it the peppy 290-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 or the herculean 710-horsepower 6.2-liter Hellcat V8. Two Hemi V8s fill the center, linked to rear- or all-wheel drive via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Most of the four recalls were more recent. But dealerships are required to fix problems on vehicles recalled by the government free of charge. Thus, it may prove to be a more reliable choice than others.
, recalls have been issued for a rear view display snafu, a worn front differential pinion and an ABS malfunction. Otherwise, only a few leaky exterior gaskets plagued the 2019 Durango.
3. 2016 Dodge Durango
The only three recalls issued on the 2016 Durango, which is good enough for Dodge. They included cracked left front brake calipers, a faulty fuel rail hose, and a faulty cruise control override function. However, the 2016 model year had one of the highest levels of customer satisfaction. Despite comparing it to its competitors, he gave it a 4.5 out of 5.
4. 2015 Dodge Durango
Selecting a third-generation used Dodge Durango may be easier than other models due to its lack of changes after the 2014 redesign. As a result, Dodge’s 2015 Durango has the same roominess as newer versions. The 2015 model year was issued four recalls. Most of them are similar to the 2016 model.
5. 2009 Dodge Durango
Owners report minimal issues in the second generation Durango’s last year. A couple of rumors cite an overheated transmission as one of the culprits. Additionally, four recalls were issued on the 2009 Durango. Three were for potential shrapnel from airbag deployment and one for a loose rear axle sprocket nut. Regardless, a used 2009 Dodge Durango is probably the only second-generation model worth choosing.
Common problems with used Dodge Durangos
For third generation used Dodge Durango, most SUV problems are electrical in nature. Luckily, they have been resolved by recalls from government agencies. As far as mechanical systems go, the Durangos have never been known as the most reliable. But how serious are the problems?
it signals the most common problem as a replacement gasket for the intake manifold, which is about $650. A failed power steering pump can cost over $900, but those are the two most expensive. Otherwise, the annual maintenance cost of a Durango is around $675, not far off the price of the average vehicle.
Which Used Dodge Durango Model Years Should You Avoid?
The 2014 Durango has 11 recalls and there’s no point sifting through the paperwork to see if everything is fixed. 2012 has 10, so looking elsewhere would be better. Dodge’s 2011 Durango has garnered over 500 owner complaints to NHTSA for various electrical problems.
Aside from the 2009 Durango, second-generation midsize Mopar SUVs should be avoided. For those looking at a 2009 model year, it better be cheap. The third generation has its problems, but some years are much better than others. Therefore, for those itching for a used Dodge Durango, there is a chance to get one of the most reliable.
