2014 Dodge Journey

Introduction:

The 2014 Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV that offers a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a powerful engine. It is available with three engine options: a 2.4L inline-four, a 3.6L V6, and a 4.3L V6. The 2.4L engine produces 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.6L V6 produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 4.3L V6 produces 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. All three engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

• 2.4L Inline-four
  • Excessive Oil Consumption: Description/Symptoms: The engine may consume excessive amounts of oil, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Solution: Replace the piston rings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Timing Chain Problems: Description/Symptoms: The timing chain may stretch or break, causing the engine to lose power or fail to start. Solution: Replace the timing chain and related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• 3.6L V6
  • Intake Valve Failure: Description/Symptoms: The intake valve seats may become damaged, causing the engine to stall or run poorly. Solution: Replace the intake valves and valve seats. Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $4,000+
• 4.3L V6
  • Piston Ring Failure: Description/Symptoms: The piston rings may fail, leading to excessive oil consumption and low compression. Solution: Replace the piston rings and related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+

Transmission

• Six-Speed Automatic
  • Shifting Problems: Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip, shudder, or fail to shift smoothly. Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Torque Converter Failure: Description/Symptoms: The torque converter may fail, causing the transmission to overheat or lose power. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure: Description/Symptoms: The front struts may fail, causing the vehicle to bounce excessively or pull to one side. Solution: Replace the front struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure: Description/Symptoms: The rear shock absorbers may fail, causing the vehicle to have a rough ride or lose control on rough roads. Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Electrical

• Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain quickly, leading to a dead battery or difficulty starting the vehicle. Solution: Inspect and replace any faulty components or adjust settings that draw excessive power. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
• Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail, preventing the battery from charging. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body: Description/Symptoms: Rust may form on the lower body panels, particularly around the wheel arches and rocker panels. Solution: Repair or replace the affected panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Windshield Wiper Motor Failure: Description/Symptoms: The windshield wiper motor may fail, causing the wipers to stop working or move erratically. Solution: Replace the wiper motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle: Description/Symptoms: The dashboard may rattle or make noise, particularly over rough roads. Solution: Identify and address the source of the rattle by tightening screws or adding padding. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Climate Control Malfunction: Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may not work properly, resulting in inconsistent temperatures or a lack of airflow. Solution: Inspect and repair any faulty components, such as sensors or actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

The 2014 Dodge Journey offers a spacious and comfortable interior, but it has been plagued by several significant issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. The excessive oil consumption, timing chain problems, and intake valve failure on the 2.4L and 3.6L engines can be costly and potentially lead to major engine damage. The shifting problems and torque converter failures on the six-speed automatic transmission can also result in expensive repairs. Rust formation on the lower body is another common complaint, while other issues such as battery drain, alternator failure, and dashboard rattle are less severe but can still be annoying. Overall, the 2014 Dodge Journey has a mixed reliability record, and potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues before making a purchase decision.