2002 Dodge Durango
2002 Dodge Durango
Overview
The 2002 Dodge Durango, a popular mid-size SUV, offered a blend of utility and comfort for its era. It was available with a range of V8 engines and a robust transmission, catering to those needing towing capability and family hauling. While generally considered a solid vehicle for its time, like any model with significant mileage, certain areas have shown a propensity for issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical concerns reported by owners, excluding routine maintenance, to provide a clearer picture of its long-term reliability.
Engine
4.7L Magnum V8
Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Symptoms: Stalling, rough idle, no-start condition, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, sweet smell of coolant.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
- Cost: $400 - $700
4.7L Magnum V8 (High Output)
Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Symptoms: Stalling, rough idle, no-start condition, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, sweet smell of coolant.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
- Cost: $400 - $700
5.9L Magnum V8
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Transmission
45RFE 4-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Ball Joint Wear
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, steering wander.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Sway Bar Link Bushing Wear
- Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, especially when turning or going over uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Replacement of worn sway bar link bushings.
- Cost: $100 - $250
Electrical
Standard Electrical System
Window Regulator Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window movement, grinding noises from the door.
- Solution: Replacement of the window regulator assembly.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Instrument Cluster Malfunction
- Symptoms: Gauges not working, flickering lights, dead pixels on displays.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Exterior
Standard Exterior
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Standard Interior
HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or intermittent airflow, strange noises from the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Summary Verdict
The 2002 Dodge Durango generally presents as a capable SUV with a few common areas of concern that owners should be aware of. The V8 engines, particularly the 4.7L, can experience issues with the crankshaft position sensor and intake manifold gaskets, which are repairable. Suspension components like ball joints and sway bar links may require attention due to wear. Electrical gremlins, such as failing window regulators and instrument clusters, are also noted. However, the transmissions and exterior components are typically robust. With proactive maintenance and attention to these specific potential problems, the 2002 Durango can remain a reliable vehicle for its intended purpose.