2009 Dodge Durango
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2009 Dodge Durango, formatted for your website.
The 2009 Dodge Durango is a full-size SUV known for its ruggedness and towing capacity. Engine options included a 3.7L V6 producing 210 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque, a 4.7L V8 generating 303 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L HEMI V8 delivering 335 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options are either a 4-speed automatic for the 3.7L or a 5-speed automatic for the V8 engines. Owners often praise its spacious interior and truck-like capabilities. Common complaints revolve around fuel economy, some reliability concerns, and the dated interior.
Engine
3.7L V6
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, check engine light illuminated, noticeable lack of power, particularly during acceleration. Often caused by worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
- Solution: Replace spark plugs and ignition coils. Diagnose and repair any vacuum leaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on the number of coils replaced and the complexity of vacuum leak repair.
- Recalls: None Found
4.7L V8
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breakage
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing noise, especially when the engine is cold, exhaust leak smell. Broken exhaust manifold bolts are common.
- Solution: Replace broken exhaust manifold bolts or the entire manifold if necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on labor and parts.
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L HEMI V8
- HEMI Tick (Lifter Noise)
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or clicking sound, primarily at idle and low RPMs. Can be caused by worn roller lifters.
- Solution: Replacement of lifters and potentially camshaft.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ depending on the extent of the damage and the shop labor rate.
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs. Often related to worn valve seals or piston rings.
- Solution: Valve seal replacement or engine rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $5000+, depending on the repair needed (seals vs. rebuild).
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic (3.7L)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, hesitation during acceleration.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change. Check and replace faulty solenoids or valve body if needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+, depending on the complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic (4.7L and 5.7L)
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: Shaking or shuddering, especially at low speeds or during light acceleration.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush with friction modifier additive or torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1200+, depending on whether a flush resolves the issue or if a new torque converter is required.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Ball Joints/Control Arm Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Loose or wandering steering.
- Solution: Replace worn ball joints, control arms, and/or bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per side, depending on the components needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Suspension Sag/Weakness
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality and handling. Can be related to worn leaf springs or shocks.
- Solution: Replace worn leaf springs and/or shocks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ depending on the parts replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, fuel pump relay failure, stalling, power windows not working, wipers malfunctioning.
- Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ depending on the shop.
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, or moving slowly with unusual noises.
- Solution: Window regulator replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Rocker Panels/Wheel Arches
- Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming along the rocker panels and wheel arches, especially in areas with heavy salt use.
- Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected panels.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the severity of the rust and the extent of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clicking noise behind the dashboard, inability to control air temperature, air only blowing hot or cold.
- Solution: Replacement of blend door actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+, depending on location and ease of access.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof leaks, sunroof will not open or close.
- Solution: Sunroof motor and gasket repair/replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on complexity.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2009 Dodge Durango, while offering ample space and capability, is prone to certain issues. Engine problems like the HEMI tick and oil consumption can be costly. Electrical gremlins stemming from the TIPM are also a common headache. Suspension components wear out, and rust can be a concern in certain climates. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, major engine or electrical work can quickly escalate costs. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential maintenance expenses.