2018 Dodge Durango

Here’s a breakdown of common issues reported by owners of the 2018 Dodge Durango, categorized by component and engine/transmission option. The 2018 Dodge Durango is a popular three-row SUV praised for its muscular styling, strong engine options, and surprising performance capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. The Durango offered a range of engine options, including the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (295 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), the 5.7L Hemi V8 (360 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque), and the top-of-the-line 6.4L Hemi V8 (475 hp, 470 lb-ft of torque) available in the SRT trim. All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Durango’s spaciousness, towing capacity, and available all-wheel drive, but some common complaints include electrical issues, infotainment system glitches, and concerns about long-term reliability.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Tick/Knock Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a ticking or knocking noise emanating from the engine, particularly noticeable at idle or low speeds. This may be caused by worn rocker arms.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected rocker arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the engine. Visible coolant leak near the oil filter adapter housing. Overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: A distinctive ticking sound, often described as “Hemi Tick,” is reported. This is related to the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) lifters.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lifters and potentially the camshaft.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.4L Hemi V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh shifting, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Transmission Control Module (TCM) re-programming/update. In some cases, valve body replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (TCM re-flash), $800 - $2,000+ (Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting noticeably lower than the front, especially when loaded. Often attributed to worn rear shocks or coil springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear shocks or coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Uconnect Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response times, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update for the Uconnect system. In some cases, replacement of the Uconnect module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update), $500 - $1,500+ (Module Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera image not displaying, distorted image, or intermittent failure.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of the backup camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or after a short period of inactivity. Issues can come from leaving a light on or a parasitic draw in the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the battery drain by taking the vehicle to a certified mechanic to diagnose electrical components to find the source of the draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Power liftgate not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of liftgate motor, struts, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking in the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not getting warm or only partially heating.
  • Solution: Replacement of seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Dodge Durango, while a capable and appealing SUV, exhibits a range of common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly related to ticking noises and oil leaks (especially the 3.6L Pentastar), and transmission issues like harsh shifting can be costly to address. Electrical gremlins, especially with the Uconnect system and backup camera, are also frequently reported. While some issues may be minor and easily resolved, others, like dashboard cracking or engine lifter problems, represent potentially significant repair expenses. It’s advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to assess the vehicle’s condition and identify any existing or potential problems.