2012 Dodge Durango
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2012 Dodge Durango, categorized by component and engine/transmission configuration, following the requested format.
The 2012 Dodge Durango is a popular SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and towing capability. It’s generally liked for its comfortable ride and stylish design, but some common complaints include electrical glitches, concerns about fuel economy, and some reported issues with specific engine and transmission components. Engine options include a 3.6L Pentastar V6 producing 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L Hemi V8 producing 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The 2012 Durango uses the W5A580 5-speed automatic transmission in both the V6 and V8 trims.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Cylinder Head Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported cylinder head failures, often manifesting as a ticking noise, misfires, and illuminated check engine light. This issue can be caused by defective valve guides or poor oil flow.
- Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head assembly is typically required. In some cases, only the affected cylinder head needs to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Cooler Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil cooler assembly, resulting in oil loss and potential engine damage if left unchecked. This is sometimes caused by cracked plastic housing.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- HEMI Tick
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound from the engine, often attributed to exhaust manifold leaks or, in more severe cases, lifter problems (roller lifters).
- Solution: Repairing exhaust manifold leaks or replacing faulty lifters.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Exhaust manifold repair - $300 - $800+, Lifter replacement - $1,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breakage
- Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts lead to exhaust leaks, reduced performance, and increased noise.
- Solution: Replacement of the broken bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
W5A580 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both 3.6L and 5.7L)
- Rough Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, transmission slipping between gears, or a general lack of responsiveness.
- Solution: Often starts with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. More severe cases may require valve body repair or complete transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush/filter - $200 - $400, Valve body repair - $800 - $1,500+, Transmission replacement - $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during light acceleration, often indicating torque converter failure.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Nivomat Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The Nivomat self-leveling rear shocks (if equipped) are prone to failure, resulting in a sagging rear end, a bouncy ride, and poor handling.
- Solution: Replacement of the Nivomat shocks with new Nivomat shocks or conversion to standard shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Nivomat replacement - $800 - $1,500+ (per pair), Standard shock conversion - $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Clunking Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, often caused by worn sway bar links, bushings, or ball joints.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn suspension components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Sway bar links - $100 - $300, Bushings - $100 - $400, Ball joints - $200 - $500+ (per side)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The TIPM controls many electrical functions, and failures can cause a variety of problems, including fuel pump relay failure (leading to stalling), windshield wiper malfunctions, power window issues, and difficulty starting.
- Solution: Replacement of the TIPM. Note: this is a common issue, and refurbished units are often available.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
- Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per window
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Liftgate Strut Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The liftgate struts weaken over time, causing the liftgate to not stay open or to close unexpectedly.
- Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Uconnect System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with the Uconnect infotainment system, including freezing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and navigation malfunctions.
- Solution: Software updates, replacement of the Uconnect module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update - $0 - $200, Uconnect module replacement - $500 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2012 Dodge Durango has some potential reliability concerns. Electrical issues related to the TIPM module are relatively common and can be expensive to fix. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.6L V6 cylinder heads and the 5.7L Hemi exhaust manifolds/lifters, can also lead to significant repair costs. Suspension issues, if the vehicle is equipped with Nivomat shocks, can add to the ownership expense. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing a used 2012 Durango. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly.