2018 Dodge Journey

The 2018 Dodge Journey is a mid-size SUV known for its affordability and available third-row seating. Engine options for the 2018 model year include a 2.4L inline-4 cylinder engine producing 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine producing 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.6L engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Journey’s spaciousness and value for the price, while common complaints include its outdated design, subpar fuel economy, and lackluster performance, particularly with the base engine.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and the check engine light illuminating. Often caused by worn or fouled spark plugs or faulty ignition coils.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs and/or ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the oil cooler adapter or valve cover gaskets, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the oil cooler adapter and/or valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (paired with 2.4L engine)

• Harsh Shifting/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts between gears, especially noticeable when accelerating or decelerating. Can lead to a general feeling of the transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Fluid flush may provide temporary relief. Replacement of the transmission may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (paired with 3.6L engine)

• Rough Shifting/Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable rough or jerky shifts between gears, or a feeling of the transmission slipping during acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. In other cases, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps. Common causes include worn sway bar links, ball joints, or struts.
  • Solution: Replace worn sway bar links, ball joints, and/or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: A wide range of electrical problems, including the vehicle not starting, fuel pump issues, malfunctioning wipers, and erratic operation of various accessories.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery draining overnight or within a few days of being parked. Possible causes include a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exterior door handles breaking, particularly in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Faulty Uconnect Touchscreen
  • Description/Symptoms: The Uconnect touchscreen becoming unresponsive, glitching, or failing to power on.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the Uconnect unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Dodge Journey has several common issues, ranging from engine oil leaks and transmission problems to electrical malfunctions and suspension wear. The TIPM issues can be particularly troublesome due to their wide range of symptoms and relatively high repair cost. While some issues like worn suspension components are typical for vehicles of this age, others, such as the TIPM failures, are more concerning and can significantly impact the vehicle’s reliability. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission repairs.