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2001 Dodge Durango

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2001 Dodge Durango was a popular SUV known for its ruggedness and towing capacity. Engine options included the 3.9L Magnum V6 (175 hp, 225 lb-ft of torque), the 5.2L Magnum V8 (230 hp, 300 lb-ft of torque), and the 5.9L Magnum V8 (245 hp, 335 lb-ft of torque). The 5.2L and 5.9L engines were generally favored for their increased power. Owners often appreciated the Durango’s spacious interior and truck-like capabilities, but common complaints revolved around fuel economy, reliability issues, and some aspects of the interior quality.

Engine

3.9L Magnum V6

  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or a no-start condition. The check engine light may illuminate with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

5.2L Magnum V8

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, coolant leaks, and potential overheating. White smoke may appear from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

5.9L Magnum V8

  • “Death Flash” PCM Issue
    • Description/Symptoms: A sudden stall or shut off when coming to a stop, most commonly noticed at a stoplight or sign. This can be dangerous because the driver can experience loss of power steering and power brakes.
    • Solution: Replacement or Reflashing of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover and Rear Main Seal)
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, oil consumption increases, and a burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets and/or rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve cover gaskets $150-$300; Rear main seal $400-$800

Transmission

42RE/44RE/46RE Automatic Transmission

  • Slipping or Erratic Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, and difficulty engaging reverse. This is often associated with wear and tear on the transmission clutches and bands.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrating at low speeds, especially when accelerating. Potential stalling of the engine when coming to a stop.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Transmission Fluid Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Red fluid leaking from the transmission, difficulty shifting, and potential transmission overheating. Common leak points include the transmission pan gasket and the front or rear seals.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400

Suspension

  • Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 (depending on how many components need replaced)
  • Sagging or Worn Leaf Springs (Rear)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the vehicle sagging, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality and potential for bottoming out.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000

Electrical

  • Faulty Instrument Cluster
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), flickering lights, and potential for complete cluster failure.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not operating, or operating intermittently.
    • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Exterior

  • Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Arches
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower body panels, especially around the rocker panels and wheel arches.
    • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on severity)
  • Door Handle Breakage
    • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles are prone to breaking due to brittle plastic components.
    • Solution: Replacement of the door handles.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150

Interior

  • Cracked Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface due to sun exposure and age.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement or a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the roof of the vehicle and sagging.
    • Solution: Headliner replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Summary

The 2001 Dodge Durango, while generally a capable vehicle, suffers from a range of age-related issues. Engine problems can range from relatively minor sensor replacements to more significant intake manifold leaks. Transmission issues, particularly slipping and erratic shifting, can be costly to address. Suspension components are prone to wear, requiring replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, and leaf springs. Electrical problems, such as a faulty instrument cluster, can also be a nuisance. Exterior rust is common, and interior plastics are susceptible to cracking. The severity of these issues varies, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase.

Dodge, Durango
Dodge Durango 2001
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