2004 Dodge Durango

2004 Dodge Durango

Overview

The 2004 Dodge Durango, a full-size SUV, offered a blend of utility and passenger comfort, often appealing to families needing robust towing and hauling capabilities. It was available with a range of V8 engines and rear-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations. While generally considered a capable vehicle for its class, like many vehicles of this era, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. Understanding these potential problems can help prospective buyers and current owners with maintenance and repair planning. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical concerns, excluding routine maintenance.

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Engine

4.7L Magnum V8

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and associated seals.
• Cost: $1200 - $2500

Intake Manifold Leaks

• Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, check engine light (P0171, P0174 codes).
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket or the entire manifold.
• Cost: $400 - $800

5.7L HEMI V8

Cylinder Deactivation (MDS) Issues

• Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, check engine light, loss of power.
• Solution: Repair or disable the MDS system, or replace faulty solenoids/lifters.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

3.7L Magnum V6

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Transmission

45RFE/545RFE (4-Speed Automatic)

Torque Converter Failure

• Symptoms: Slipping gears, shuddering, delayed engagement, fluid leaks.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter and potentially transmission fluid flush.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Solenoid Issues

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, transmission not shifting into certain gears, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty shift solenoids.
• Cost: $300 - $600

NV3500 (5-Speed Manual)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Ball Joint Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises, uneven tire wear, steering instability.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Sway Bar Link Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling or clunking noises over bumps, especially at lower speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of worn sway bar links and bushings.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

BCM Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, power window issues, interior light problems, horn not working.
• Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Battery warning light, dimming headlights, dead battery, electrical system failures.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels & Paint

Rust on Body Panels

• Symptoms: Visible rust, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or panel replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $1500+

Tailgate Latches

Tailgate Latch Mechanism

• Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, latch not engaging properly.
• Solution: Lubrication or replacement of the tailgate latch mechanism.
• Cost: $100 - $300

Interior

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Seat Heaters

Heated Seat Malfunction

• Symptoms: Heated seats not working, intermittent heating, or no heat at all.
• Solution: Replacement of heating elements or wiring harness.
• Cost: $250 - $600

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Summary Verdict

The 2004 Dodge Durango, particularly models equipped with the 4.7L and 5.7L HEMI engines, can experience specific mechanical issues such as head gasket failures and cylinder deactivation problems, respectively. Transmission concerns, like torque converter and solenoid issues, are also noted. On the electrical front, Body Control Module malfunctions and alternator failures are potential weak points. Exterior rust and interior HVAC blend door actuator failures are common complaints. While not plagued by a universal set of problems, owners should be aware of these potential repair areas. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms can mitigate the severity and cost of these issues.