2017 Dodge Durango
2017 Dodge Durango
Overview
The 2017 Dodge Durango is a capable and versatile SUV, offering a blend of power, comfort, and utility. It is generally considered a reliable vehicle, particularly with its more robust powertrain options. Owners often praise its spacious interior, towing capacity, and the availability of powerful V6 and V8 engines. While most owners report a positive ownership experience, like any vehicle, there are specific areas that have seen more attention from a reliability standpoint. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers and current owners.
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
- Symptoms: Visible oil stains under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seals.
- Cost: $250 - $600
5.7L HEMI V8
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Frequent need to top off engine oil, blue smoke from exhaust on startup.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential repair of piston rings, valve seals, or PCV system.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Lifter/Camshaft Wear
- Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, rough idle, loss of power.
- Solution: Replacement of lifters, camshaft, and potentially other valvetrain components.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (845RE/8HP70)
Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, shuddering during acceleration.
- Solution: Software updates, transmission fluid flush and fill, or internal transmission repair.
- Cost: $300 - $1200
Torque Converter Issues
- Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping gears, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $800 - $1800
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Infotainment System
Uconnect Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, backup camera malfunctions.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the head unit.
- Cost: $150 - $800
Battery Drain
Intermittent Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw from modules or accessories, replacement of faulty components.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Electronics & Features
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Dodge Durango generally presents a solid reliability record, especially when equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine. The 5.7L HEMI, while powerful, has a higher propensity for oil-related issues and potential valvetrain wear. Transmission concerns, primarily with the 8-speed automatic, can manifest as shifting irregularities, often addressable with software or fluid services. Electrical gremlins, particularly within the Uconnect infotainment system and occasional battery drain issues, are the most commonly cited non-powertrain problems. Overall, the Durango is a dependable choice for those seeking a large SUV, with most potential issues being manageable and not indicative of systemic failure across the model range.