2020 Dodge Durango

The 2020 Dodge Durango is a popular SUV known for its muscular styling, powerful engine options, and impressive towing capacity. It appeals to those who need a family-friendly vehicle with truck-like capabilities. Engine options include 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 beastly 6.4L HEMI V8 (475 hp, 470 lb-ft of torque) in the SRT model. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Durango’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common dislikes include fuel economy, particularly with the V8 engines, and some reported issues with electronics.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Engine Tick/Knock Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a ticking or knocking noise, particularly at startup or idle. This can sometimes be related to the MultiAir system or valve train components.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is crucial. Potential repairs range from oil changes with specific viscosity oil to replacing components within the cylinder head, like rocker arms or lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the severity and parts that need to be replaced
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including the oil filter adapter/cooler.
  • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets or the entire oil filter adapter/cooler assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L HEMI V8

• HEMI Tick/Knock Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the V6, the HEMI V8 can exhibit a ticking or knocking noise, potentially related to the lifters, exhaust manifold bolts, or other valve train components. The “HEMI Tick” is a relatively common phenomenon.
  • Solution: Diagnosis required. Solutions can range from replacing exhaust manifold bolts to addressing lifter issues or piston slap.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts can cause exhaust leaks, leading to a ticking or hissing sound, especially when the engine is cold.
  • Solution: Replace the broken bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.4L HEMI V8

• HEMI Tick/Knock Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 5.7L HEMI, the 6.4L HEMI can exhibit a ticking or knocking noise, potentially related to the lifters, exhaust manifold bolts, or other valve train components. The “HEMI Tick” is a relatively common phenomenon.
  • Solution: Diagnosis required. Solutions can range from replacing exhaust manifold bolts to addressing lifter issues or piston slap.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. Some have also reported a ‘clunking’ sound as the transmission engages.
  • Solution: The potential repair options could include a software update/reflash of the TCM(Transmission Control Module) or replacement of valve body, or replacement of the entire transmission if the issue is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported clunking or squeaking noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can be caused by worn sway bar links or bushings.
  • Solution: Replacing worn sway bar links or bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Uconnect System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the Uconnect infotainment system, including freezing, glitching, and connectivity issues (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto).
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue. In some cases, the Uconnect module may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially when the vehicle is not driven for several days.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic drain, and replace faulty components such as modules not properly shutting down.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera image is distorted, blurry, or the camera fails to display any image at all.
  • Solution: Check camera connections. Replace faulty camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may make unusual noises during operation. This can be caused by a faulty liftgate motor or sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate motor or sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to heat or heating inconsistently.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the heating element or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Dodge Durango, while offering impressive performance and practicality, is not without its potential issues. The engine-related problems, particularly the “HEMI tick” and exhaust manifold bolt failures, can be concerning for V8 owners. The electrical issues, particularly with the Uconnect system, are a common complaint. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be quite costly, especially those involving the transmission or engine internals. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.