2014 Dodge Durango

2014 Dodge Durango

Overview

The 2014 Dodge Durango is a capable full-size SUV that offers a blend of power, utility, and comfort. It was available with two robust engine options, a standard V6 and a more potent V8, both paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission. Known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, the Durango is a popular choice for families and those needing towing capability. While generally considered reliable, like any vehicle, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and technicians. This report details common technical issues reported for the 2014 model year, focusing on powertrain, suspension, electrical, and interior components, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear.

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Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

Coolant Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible coolant puddles under the vehicle, low coolant level warning light, engine overheating.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking gaskets, hoses, or water pump.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)

• Symptoms: Burning oil smell, visible oil on engine components, oil residue on exhaust manifold.
• Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $800

5.7L HEMI V8

Oil Leaks (Rear Main Seal)

• Symptoms: Oil drips from the rear of the engine, low oil level, oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of the rear main seal.
• Cost: $700 - $1200

Lifter/Camshaft Wear

• Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of lifters, camshaft, and potentially other valvetrain components.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (845RE)

Harsh Shifting / Hesitation

• Symptoms: Jerking or clunking during gear changes, delayed engagement, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or internal transmission repair.
• Cost: $300 - $2500

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping gears, whining noise.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints / Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, vague steering feel.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
• Cost: $400 - $900

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Random issues with lights, power windows, locks, or infotainment system; warning lights may illuminate erratically.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Premature Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery, electrical system malfunctions.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

No Major Issues

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Infotainment System (Uconnect)

Freezing or Unresponsiveness

• Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes, audio issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
• Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the head unit.
• Cost: $200 - $1000

Climate Control Actuators

Malfunctioning Blend Doors

• Symptoms: Air only blows from certain vents, inability to switch between hot and cold, unusual clicking noises from the dashboard.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty climate control actuators.
• Cost: $300 - $600

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Summary Verdict

The 2014 Dodge Durango, particularly with its available V6 and V8 engines, is generally a reliable vehicle. Common issues tend to be concentrated in areas like potential coolant and oil leaks from the V6 and V8 engines respectively, and some transmission-related concerns such as harsh shifting or torque converter problems, especially with the 8-speed automatic. Suspension components like ball joints can wear over time, leading to noise. Electrical gremlins, often related to the Body Control Module or alternator, and infotainment system glitches are also noted. However, many of these issues are repairable and not indicative of systemic failure across the model. Regular maintenance and addressing early signs of trouble can significantly prolong the life and reliability of the 2014 Durango.