2012 Dodge Durango

Introduction:

The 2012 Dodge Durango is a full-size SUV that offers a muscular design and spacious interior. It is available with various engine and transmission options, including a 3.6L V6 with an 8-speed automatic transmission, a 5.7L V8 with an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a 6.4L V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Durango boasts impressive horsepower and torque figures, making it a capable performer. While it is praised for its bold styling and comfortable cabin, it has faced some issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

3.6L V6 with 8-speed Automatic Transmission

• Intake Manifold Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue affects the plastic intake manifold, which can crack and cause coolant leaks. Symptoms may include overheating, coolant loss, and engine performance issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold is necessary to resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Water Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail, resulting in coolant leaks, overheating, and potential engine damage. Symptoms may include low coolant levels, engine noise, and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the water pump and related components is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: N/A

5.7L V8 with 8-speed Automatic Transmission

• Cylinder Head Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue affects early models with the 5.7L V8 engine. The cylinder heads can crack, leading to coolant leaks, engine overheating, and potential catastrophic engine failure. Symptoms may include white smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, and engine performance issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected cylinder heads is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Rear Main Seal Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear main seal can fail, causing an oil leak from the back of the engine. Symptoms may include oil spots on the ground, low oil levels, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear main seal is necessary to stop the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: N/A

6.4L V8 with 5-speed Automatic Transmission

• No Issues Found

Transmission

8-speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping or Shuddering:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may start to slip or shudder, especially during gear changes. This can cause rough shifting, power loss, and inconsistent performance.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: N/A

5-speed Automatic Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The front suspension bushings can wear out prematurely, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and decreased ride comfort.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear shock absorbers can fail, resulting in a rough ride, excessive body roll, and reduced handling stability.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed shock absorbers is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue affects models with the start-stop system. The battery can drain excessively while the vehicle is parked, leaving it unable to start.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacing the battery may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight switch may malfunction, causing intermittent or complete headlight failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight switch is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear liftgate struts can fail, making it difficult to open or close the rear liftgate.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed struts is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: This issue affects models with the panoramic sunroof. The sunroof can rattle when closed, especially during rough road conditions.
  • Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks or adding insulation may help reduce the rattle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: N/A

Summary

The 2012 Dodge Durango is a capable SUV with a strong engine lineup and spacious interior. However, it has faced some significant issues, particularly with the 5.7L V8 engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission. These issues can be costly to repair, and some may require extensive work. Potential owners should be aware of these issues and factor them into their decision-making process.