2010 Dodge Journey

Introduction

The 2010 Dodge Journey is a midsize crossover SUV that offers a combination of practicality and style. It is available with three engine options: a 2.4L 4-cylinder, a 3.5L V6, and a 3.6L V6. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic, a 6-speed automatic, and a CVT. The Journey received positive reviews for its spacious interior, versatile seating configurations, and powerful V6 engines. However, owners have reported several common issues with the vehicle.

Engine

2.4L 4-Cylinder Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, reduced engine power, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Engine

• Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, check engine light, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace the VVT actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6 Engine

• Oil Consumption Issues:

  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil levels, blue smoke from exhaust, decreased engine performance
  • Solution: Repair or replace piston rings, valve seals, or other internal components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Solenoid Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or delayed shifting, slipping gears, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace the shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Clutch Pack Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, shuddering, loss of drive
  • Solution: Replace the clutch pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT Transmission

• Chain or Belt Issues:

  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or grinding noises, loss of power, shuddering
  • Solution: Replace the chain or belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noises, poor handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

• Rear Shock Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, bouncy ride, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace the rear shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issue:

  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting overnight, flickering lights, electrical component failures
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair source of power drain (parasitic draw)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

• Alternator Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical component failures, battery charging issues
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Latch Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate won’t open or close properly, unlatching while driving
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

• Exterior Body Panel Rust:

  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on body panels, especially around fenders and wheel wells
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Motor Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, slow or noisy operation
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

• Air Conditioning Failure:

  • Description/Symptoms: AC not blowing cold, compressor clutch not engaging, refrigerant leaks
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair AC system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, etc.)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Dodge Journey is a versatile and practical SUV, but it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems reported by owners include intake manifold gasket failure, VVT actuator failure, oil consumption issues, shift solenoid failure, clutch pack failure, and power window motor failure. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. In general, the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and 4-speed automatic transmission have proven to be more reliable than the larger engines and other transmission options. However, all versions of the Journey can experience issues with the suspension, electrical system, and interior components. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues with the 2010 Dodge Journey should be considered before purchasing one of these vehicles.