2006 Dodge Durango
The 2006 Dodge Durango is a full-size SUV known for its truck-like capabilities and spacious interior. Engine options include a 3.7L Magnum V6 producing 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, a 4.7L Magnum V8 producing 235 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L HEMI V8 producing 335 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque. The available transmissions are a 4-speed automatic (42RLE with the 3.7L and 4.7L) and a 5-speed automatic (545RFE with the 4.7L and 5.7L). Owners appreciate the Durango’s towing capacity and comfortable ride, but often cite fuel economy and some reliability issues as drawbacks.
Engine
3.7L Magnum V6
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, most commonly the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Visible oil drips under the vehicle and a burning oil smell are common.
- Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
4.7L Magnum V8
- Valve Train Noise/Lifter Tick
- Description/Symptoms: A distinct ticking or tapping noise emanating from the engine, often more pronounced when the engine is cold. This is often related to worn lifters or valve train components.
- Solution: Replacement of worn lifters, rocker arms, or other valve train components. May require engine tear down and rebuild for severe cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cracked Exhaust Manifolds
- Description/Symptoms: A hissing or ticking sound, especially noticeable when the engine is cold. Reduced fuel economy and a noticeable exhaust smell can also be present.
- Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L HEMI V8
- HEMI Tick
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4.7L V8, a ticking or tapping noise that is often diagnosed as “HEMI Tick”.
- Solution: Replacement of worn lifters, rocker arms, or other valve train components. May require engine tear down and rebuild for severe cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Increased oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust, especially upon startup or acceleration.
- Solution: Potential causes include worn valve stem seals, piston rings, or internal engine damage. Repair could range from valve stem seal replacement to a complete engine rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
42RLE (4-Speed Automatic)
- Slipping/Erratic Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips during gear changes, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear. Erratic or harsh shifting, and failure to shift into gear, are also common.
- Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and filter replacement can temporarily alleviate symptoms. However, often requires a transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
545RFE (5-Speed Automatic)
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, particularly at low speeds. Stalling when coming to a stop and delayed engagement of gears.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Often requires flushing the transmission cooler lines to remove debris.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting. Erratic shifting patterns. Transmission may get stuck in a single gear (limp mode).
- Solution: Replacement or refurbishment of the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly over bumps. Loose or wandering steering. Uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Suspension Sag
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits noticeably lower than the front, especially when loaded. The rear suspension may bottom out over bumps.
- Solution: Replacement of worn rear coil springs or installation of helper springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, including failure of fuel pump relay, starter relay, or other critical circuits. This can cause the vehicle to stall, not start, or have various electrical malfunctions.
- Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Window Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window stops working or works intermittently
- Solution: Replacement of the window motor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Rear Wheel Arches
- Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the rear wheel arches.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of affected body panels.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (per panel)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: HVAC system blows hot or cold air inconsistently, or only blows from certain vents. Clicking noises from behind the dashboard may be present.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty blend door actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Broken Door Handles (Interior)
- Description/Symptoms: The interior door handle breaks, preventing the door from opening from the inside.
- Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2006 Dodge Durango presents a range of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly those related to valve train noise and oil consumption in the V8 engines, can be costly to address. Transmission problems, especially slipping and torque converter failure, are also common and can lead to significant repair bills. Electrical issues related to the TIPM can cause intermittent malfunctions and starting problems. Suspension wear and rust are also noted concerns. While the Durango offers considerable utility, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and budget accordingly for potential repairs. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, and the cost to fix them can vary from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.