The Dodge Durango is a midsize SUV that was introduced for the ’98 model year.
It has macho looks, great towing capacity, seating for up to 7, and decent engine options.
In this article, we’ll be going through all of the best and worst model years of the Durango.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Dodge Durango Are:
The best Dodge Durango model years are 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2003. The worst model years of the Durango are 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015. This is based on reviews, NHTSA data and reported problems.
What Are The Best Years For The Dodge Durango?
2023 and 2022 Dodge Durango
The 2023 and 2022 Durango models are part of the third generation introduced for 2011, although they are built on an older platform, they excel in performance and practicality.
They can reach speeds of 60 mph in under 5 seconds and tow up to 8,700 pounds.
For 2022 third-row seats were made standard and more standard safety features were introduced, including blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking sensors.
There are 5 main trim levels available: SXT, GT, R/T, Citadel, and SRT.
Pricing ranges from approximately $41,000 to $104,000.
2023 Durango:
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2022 Durango:
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 80 / 100
2022 Durango, Edmunds review:
“Quiet, smooth, powerful even with the v6 and head turner with gloss black 20s and reactor blue pearl coat. Sport mode will have you in the fast lane passing others in seconds. More options on the touchscreen than you can imagine. Totally impressed as I’m not historically a dodge guy. Not as big as a full size suv but darn close. Right, she’ll suck some fuel if you get into the 295 horses. Amazing get up for only 295 hp. Pleasure to drive all the way around.”
2021 Dodge Durango
The 2021 Durango is a powerful midsize SUV praised for its unbeatable towing capacity, strong V8 engine options, and legitimate off road capabilities.
A notable change came for 2021, when high demand brought the return of the SRT Hellcat to the lineup sporting a 6.2-liter V8.
Other new updates across the lineup included a more aggressive exterior design, a refreshed interior and a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2021 Durango, Edmunds review:
“The 2021 Dodge Durango refresh has basically addressed all minor complaints I had. The interior is up there with the most competitive in the segment, LED headlights, revised suspension, 10″ UConnect 5, and more. Combined with the R/T, SRT, and HC in particular, this is one well-rounded SUV that is able to check a lot of important boxes. Everything from performance to practical utility. It has 3 rows, lots of interior room, good reliability, and is easier to maneuver than a full-size SUV. Opt for one of the V8 engines and you can have all of the performance you could ever want. The only real negatives are a somewhat dated exterior due to its old platform and fuel economy isn’t the best with the larger 6.2 and 6.4l V8 engines…”
2020, 2019, and 2018 Dodge Durango
The 2020, 2019, and 2018 Durango models are essentially the same, and you can’t go far wrong with either. According to NHTSA data, these models are very reliable having received minimal complaints.
All models come in 5 trims: SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T, and SRT.
The high-performance 475-horsepower SRT variant made its debut for 2018 which is the same year when Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard on all models.
The NHTSA awarded all 3 model years with a 4 out of 5 star rating, based on a various crash tests.
2020 Durango:
- Edmunds: 4.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2019 Durango:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 81 / 100
2018 Durango:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2018 Durango, Edmunds review:
“I looked around at a lot of different SUV’s. Overall I LOVED the comfort, styling and value of my new Durango when compared to the other brands. My top priority in addition to functionality was safety. I loved how the Technology package brings that all together for an affordable cost. In addition to all the innovative technology I have a vehicle that is great to look at and fun to drive.”
2017 and 2016 Dodge Durango
The 2017 and 2016 Durango models are spacious, feature-rich, and off-road-capable.
A new Sport mode feature was introduced for 2016 which comes as standard across the lineup – it alters steering calibration, throttle response, and transmission shift programming.
Another new feature designed to improve fuel economy, which not all owners love, was the introduction of engine auto start-stop.
2017 Durango:
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2016 Durango:
- Edmunds: 4.51 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2016 Durango, Edmunds review:
“The 2016 Durango Citadel is a well-made, well designed full size SUV. The interior and exterior are well appointed and well designed, with great comfort and convenience items that are pleasing (vented driver and passenger seats) and start-stop technology. Two issues I’ve had so far: 1) is the fact that the 8 speed VVT transmission shifts roughly and even over revs when fast accelerating; 2) The cooling aspect in the HVAC seems to be having problems cooling effectively during some very hot days here in the Midwest. Hopefully a quick trip to the dealer can fix this. Other than these issues, the vehicle is great, so far.”
2009 Dodge Durango
The 2009 Durango lineup offers powerful V8 engines, generous towing and cargo capabilities, and easy-to-use interior controls.
It is part of the second generation which ran from 2004 – 2009, and is one of the most reliable second gen models produced.
What distinguishes this model year from the others is the inclusion of a hybrid model that combines V8 power with V6-like fuel economy.
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2009 Durango, Edmunds review:
“Let me start off with the obvious: Fuel Economy. I gave it a 9. Not because it is superb in fuel consumption compared to the average car on the road, but because it handedly beats everything in its class. The MDS which turns off 4 of the 8 cylinder while cruising along really does save a lot of $$. The 5.7L V8 is powerful 345 hp and efficient 24 MPG highway 14 City and 18 mixed driving. That’s darn good for this sort of vehicle in my opinion. It seats 7 comfortably and the long wheelbase is very comfortable at highway and around town speeds. Service costs are avg.”
2008 Dodge Durango
The 2008 Durango has a smooth ride, respectable handling, and a spacious interior.
It scored impressive reviews from owners and auto critics alike.
New for this particular model year is an available next-gen 4.7-liter engine, an all-wheel-drive configuration for certain variants, and a variety of interior tech features.
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2008 Durango, Edmunds review:
“What can I say but, this vehicle can do it all. Probably the best vehicle I have ever owned. This HEMI will blow by any stock equipped truck out there. I live in hilly Western Pennsylvania and can tow anything from my Six-Pack Charger to my Chris-Craft Cruiser. The 4WD plows through the worst snow we have and climbs any muddy trail I put it through. There is so much room that a family of 7 can enjoy a long trip. With the seats down I can load 4×8 sheets of drywall or plywood or move any youngster to college. The power leather heated seats feel like you are on a cloud. This vehicle is such a head turner with the maroon paint and 20 inch chrome wheels…”
2007 Dodge Durango
The 2007 Durango has a competitive list of safety features, good suspension, off road competence, and ample cargo capacity.
When properly equipped, this midsize SUV can tow a maximum of up to 8,750 pounds.
This rating is more than enough to bring large travel trailers, boats, and campers.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2007 Durango, Edmunds review:
“I bought my 07 SLT 4.7 Flex with 130k miles two months ago and so far I am THRILLED. I shopped around, was patient and thorough, and found a great deal. For a 12 year old full size suv it has held up incredibly well. I have 18″ off road tires on the truck that make it look like a beast. It sits up high which is perfect for me being 6’4. Headroom and legroom have always been a concern of mine with any vehicle and this rig has ample amounts of both (for the driver anyway).”
2003 Dodge Durango
The 2003 Durango is praised for its appearance, comfort, interior, handling, steering, spaciousness, and overall ride quality.
If you’re shopping for an older model that has proven to be fairly reliable, the 2003 Durango should do the job.
Its part of the 1st generation which ran from 1998 to 2006 and it received far fewer complaints than many of its first gen brethren.
New for this particular model year are larger wheels for the entry-level Sport trim, four-wheel disc brakes for all versions, and an optional 6-disc CD changer.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2003 Durango, Edmunds review:
“I really do love my Durango. The engine is super tough pulling a fully loaded trailer across the country, as well as a regular pull of the horse trailer. The only problem it ever had on its own was a bad water pump. The main cooling fan went out and it never overheated, in Phoenix in the middle of the summer. It could probably survive a nuclear bomb, my burnt skeletal corpse still holding the steering wheel and still be running”
Consumer Scores For Best Dodge Durango Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2023 Dodge Durango | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2022 Dodge Durango | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 80 / 100 |
| 2021 Dodge Durango | 3.6 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2020 Dodge Durango | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2019 Dodge Durango | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
| 2018 Dodge Durango | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
| 2017 Dodge Durango | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2016 Dodge Durango | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2009 Dodge Durango | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2008 Dodge Durango | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
| 2007 Dodge Durango | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2003 Dodge Durango | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: How Long Do Dodge Durangos Last? (Solved and Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Dodge Durango?
1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001 Dodge Durango
The 1999 Durango, labeled “Avoid Like the Plague” by CarComplaints.com, is statistically the most problematic model year ever produced. It is closely followed by the 1998, 2000 (“Avoid Like the Plague”), and 2001 (“Beware of the Clunker”) models.
All of these models share similar issues, the most common being excessive wear of the ball joints in the suspension.
Here is what owners had to say:
“Have had several problems with ball joints and control arm on 2000 Dodge Durango, they have replaced them twice under warranty and now they are bad again and need changing and Dodge will not cover since I am over the 100,000 miles warranty.”
“Upper and lower ball joints repaired twice, two sets of front tires because of uneven wear due to ball joints, in two years time. Truck isn’t driven any longer, first time ball joints went out lost control of the truck and hit a ditch, these trucks are dangerous and need to be taken off road period.”
Engine problems were also widespread with these models, with owners complaining that their Durango’s would shut down whilst driving. This was caused by a loss of oil pressure due to engine sludge buildup.
Here is what one owner had to say:
“I own a 2000 Dodge Durango 2wd with 63000 miles on it. The engine is having to be replaced. I was told it is because of not having oil changed, but I have receipts that show the oil was changed regularly. This is very costly and I have heard that other people have had the same problem. The service technician described the engine has being full of sludge.”
- The 1998 Durango had a total of 972 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 109 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 1999 Durango had a total of 2,038 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 620 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2000 Durango had a total of 1,105 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 313 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2001 Durango had a total of 698 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 147 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Defective ball joints
- ABS and brake lights constantly on
- Shuts down while driving
- Engine failure
- Oil sludge in engine
- Rear differential failure
- Low oil pressure
- ABS module failure
2004, 2005, and 2006 Dodge Durango
The 2005 (“Beware of the Clunker”), 2004 (“Avoid Like the Plague”) and 2006 Durango’s were all highly problematic and shared similar issues.
One of the most common issues was related to the fuel tank.
Owners reported that after filling the vehicle with gas it would shoot gas out of the tank.
Here is what owners had to say:
“When I fill my gas tank to full or close to full, the gas leaks or sprays back around the fuel door.”
“When putting fuel in the gas tank, once it fill up it shoots gas out. Not a little gas either, alot of gas. It’s very dangerous.”
A recall was issued however some owners reported they were not covered.
Engine issues were widespread also.
Numerous owner reports state that whilst driving at a slow speeds or turning a corner, the vehicle would cut out and stall without warning.
There were also complaints from owners who described that their engine piston rod blew.
- The 2004 Durango had a total of 1,272 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 408 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2005 Durango had a total of 1,844 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 268 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2006 Durango had a total of 970 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 91 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Engine failure
- Instrument panel failure
- Oil sludge buildup
- Blown engine
- Engine stalls/cuts off while driving
- Transmission not shifting properly
- Exhaust manifold bolts broke off
- Engine stalling
- Check engine light is on
2011, 2012, and 2013 Dodge Durango
The 2011 and 2012 Durango’s (both of which CarComplaints.com labeled “Beware of the Clunker”) and the 2013 Durango, all received high numbers of complaints for similar electrical issues.
Many of the electrical issues were linked to a faulty alternator – in some instances this caused battery failure and damaged the Powertrain Control Module (essentially the vehicles brain).
Here’s what owners had to say:
“My stock alternator caught fire, and made my car completely lock up and shut down while I was driving. Upon further diagnosis my PCM was affected”
“Vehicle became unresponsive on the highway due to 220 amp alternator overheating and frying the PCM as a result.”
Engine problems were also common, with owners reporting that their Durango would shut off whilst driving.
Many of the engine issues were due to fuel pump relay failure.
- The 2011 Durango had a total of 1,130 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 279 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2012 Durango had a total of 873 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 147 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2013 Durango had a total of 807 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 87 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Bad totally integrated power module (TIPM)
- Vehicle will not start
- Alternator stopped working
- Cylinders misfiring
- Poor shift performance
2014 and 2015 Dodge Durango
The most frequent issue experienced by owners of the 2014 and 2015 Durango model years is defective headlights and tail lights.
Owners have reported intermittent light failure, flickering headlights, and water leakage into the headlight and tail light housing.
The cause of problematic vehicle lights is water seeping into the electronics, causing short circuits.
Here’s what owners had to say:
“Water gets into track lights, short circuiting entire tailgate lighting including license plate light, back up camera, and tailgate panel lighting.”
“Water is entering the rear track lighting and it has shorted out. This happens when it is stationary.”
“Rear center taillight shorted out due to water leaking in due to manufacturing defect.”
Another common problem was that the front driver and passenger headrest would deploy without incident.
Here is what owners had to say:
“Drivers side headrest exploded into the back of my head while driving down the road speed was 30mph. No bumps or accidents. Hit me hard enough in the back of the head that I became lightheaded.”
“While traveling on freeway driver seat headrest deployed striking back of my head.”
- The 2014 Durango had a total of 912 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 99 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2015 Durango had a total of 545 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 75 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Water in tail light
- Shifts hard
- Jerking
- Engine stalls/dies while driving
- Transmission failure
- Bad totally integrated power module (TIPM)
Related: How Long Do Ford Expeditions Last? (12 Important Facts)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Dodge Durango | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 Dodge Durango | 0 | 11 | 0 |
| 2021 Dodge Durango | 2 | 60 | 6 |
| 2020 Dodge Durango | 1 | 23 | 2 |
| 2019 Dodge Durango | 9 | 103 | 3 |
| 2018 Dodge Durango | 24 | 205 | 4 |
| 2017 Dodge Durango | 27 | 212 | 2 |
| 2016 Dodge Durango | 11 | 200 | 3 |
| 2015 Dodge Durango | 75 | 545 | 4 |
| 2014 Dodge Durango | 99 | 912 | 11 |
| 2013 Dodge Durango | 87 | 807 | 11 |
| 2012 Dodge Durango | 147 | 873 | 10 |
| 2011 Dodge Durango | 279 | 1,130 | 8 |
| 2009 Dodge Durango | 5 | 18 | 4 |
| 2008 Dodge Durango | 20 | 125 | 2 |
| 2007 Dodge Durango | 47 | 315 | 4 |
| 2006 Dodge Durango | 91 | 970 | 10 |
| 2005 Dodge Durango | 268 | 1,844 | 9 |
| 2004 Dodge Durango | 408 | 1,272 | 9 |
| 2003 Dodge Durango | 109 | 379 | 6 |
| 2002 Dodge Durango | 114 | 451 | 6 |
| 2001 Dodge Durango | 147 | 698 | 7 |
| 2000 Dodge Durango | 313 | 1,105 | 4 |
| 1999 Dodge Durango | 620 | 2,038 | 5 |
| 1998 Dodge Durango | 109 | 972 | 6 |
What Problems Do Dodge Durango’s Have?
- Engine failure
- Bad totally integrated power module (TIPM)
- Vehicle will not start
- Oil sludge in engine
- Shuts down while driving
- Defective ball joints
- Rear differential failure
- Instrument panel fire
- Blown engine
- Transmission on shifting
- Alternator stopped working
- Cylinders misfiring
Related: 11 Most Common Dodge Durango Problems (Explained)
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Dodge Durango?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Buick Enclave | 8.1 | $44,800 – $59,470 | City: 17 – 18 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
| Volkswagen Atlas | 8.0 | $34,460 – $52,340 | City: 18 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 25 |
| Ford Edge | 7.9 | $37,945 – $46,485 | City: 19 – 21 /Highway: 25 – 28 |
| Nissan Pathfinder | 7.9 | $35,000 – $39,870 | City: 20 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 27 |
| Subaru Ascent | 7.9 | $33,895 – $48,195 | City: 19 – 20 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
| Toyota Highlander | 7.9 | $36,420 – $51,225 | City: 21 – 22 /Highway: 28 – 29 |
| Dodge Durango | 7.7 | $38,495 – $91,185 | City: 13 – 19 /Highway: 19 – 26 |
| Ford Explorer | 7.7 | $36,760 – $56,075 | City: 16 – 27 /Highway: 22 – 28 |
| Chevrolet Blazer | 7.6 | $35,100 – $45,700 | City: 19 – 22 / Highway: 26 – 29 |
| GMC Acadia | 7.6 | $36,800 – $50,600 | City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 26 – 29 |
| Nissan Murano | 7.6 | $33,660 – $46,910 | City: 20 /Highway: 28 |
| Toyota 4Runner | 7.0 | $39,555 – $54,020 | City: 16 /Highway: 19 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: Are SUVs Better for Long Distance Driving (Solved & Explained)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/dodge/durango
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/dodge/durango
https://www.edmunds.com/dodge/durango/
https://www.kbb.com/dodge/durango/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/dodge/durango
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Dodge/Durango/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/dodge/durango/
https://www.cars.com/research/dodge-durango/recalls/
