2017 Dodge Journey

2017 Dodge Journey

Overview

The 2017 Dodge Journey, a mid-size crossover SUV, offers a practical and spacious interior with a focus on family utility. It was available with a choice of powertrains designed to balance performance and fuel efficiency for its segment. While generally considered a competent vehicle for its intended purpose, like any automotive model, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and standard wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential mechanical and electrical vulnerabilities for the 2017 model year.

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Engine

2.4L Tigershark (I4)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level warnings, burning oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking seals or gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $200 - $600

Cooling System Leaks

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, visible coolant puddles, steam from engine bay.
• Solution: Replacement of radiator, hoses, water pump, or thermostat.
• Cost: $300 - $800

3.6L Pentastar (V6)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level warnings, burning oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking seals or gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $250 - $700

Cooling System Leaks

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, visible coolant puddles, steam from engine bay.
• Solution: Replacement of radiator, hoses, water pump, or thermostat.
• Cost: $350 - $900

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (62TE)

Harsh Shifting / Hesitation

• Symptoms: Jerking or clunking when shifting gears, delayed engagement, slipping.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $400 - $2500

Overheating

• Symptoms: Transmission warning light, burning smell, slipping gears.
• Solution: Transmission cooler flush or replacement, transmission fluid service.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noises over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of struts and/or shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends

• Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Failures

• Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, door locks, interior lights, or dashboard warnings.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Alternator

Premature Failure

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

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

Rust/Corrosion

• Symptoms: Visible rust spots, bubbling paint, especially on wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting, rustproofing treatments.
• Cost: $200 - $1500+

Tailgate Latch

Sticking or Malfunctioning Latch

• Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, tailgate not staying closed.
• Solution: Lubrication, adjustment, or replacement of the tailgate latch mechanism.
• Cost: $150 - $400

Interior

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Infotainment System

Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness

• Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes or reboots randomly.
• Solution: Software update, hard reset, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

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Summary Verdict

The 2017 Dodge Journey presents a mixed reliability profile. While its powertrains, particularly the 3.6L V6, are generally robust, owners have reported common issues such as oil and coolant leaks across both engine options. The automatic transmission can experience harsh shifting and overheating. Suspension components like struts and ball joints may require attention over time. Electrical gremlins, often linked to the BCM or alternator, are also noted. Exterior concerns include potential rust, and interior issues can arise with the HVAC blend doors and infotainment system. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms are crucial for mitigating these potential problems and ensuring the longevity of the vehicle.