2021 Dodge Durango
The 2021 Dodge Durango is a popular mid-size SUV known for its aggressive styling, powerful engine options, and surprising practicality. Available engines 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 monstrous 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (710 hp, 645 lb-ft of torque) found in the SRT Hellcat variant. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Durango’s towing capacity, spacious interior, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common criticisms include the relatively poor fuel economy, especially with the V8 engines, and some concerns about long-term reliability.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Tick/Knock Sound
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a ticking or knocking sound, especially at startup or idle. This can be caused by worn lifters.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that their lifters have failed causing a ticking noise which requires engine repair.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8
- No Issues Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced rough or delayed shifts, especially when cold or during low-speed maneuvers. This can manifest as a clunking noise during gear changes.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update or transmission recalibration can resolve the issue. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or, in rare instances, a complete transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (recalibration) - $4,000+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the rear shock absorbers, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride, especially over bumps.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Uconnect Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The Uconnect system may occasionally freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
- Solution: A software update to the Uconnect system may resolve the issue. In some cases, a system reset or replacement of the Uconnect module may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,200+ (module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Backup Camera Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the backup camera.
- Solution: Inspection of the camera wiring and connections. If the camera is faulty, replacement is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear Liftgate Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Power liftgate failing to open or close properly, or making unusual noises.
- Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts or motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may fail to function properly, either not heating at all or heating unevenly.
- Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2021 Dodge Durango, while offering a compelling blend of performance and utility, does exhibit some common issues. Engine issues, such as lifter problems, can be costly to repair, particularly on the V8 models. Transmission problems are also a concern and the Uconnect system malfunctions, and rear liftgate failures are common. While some issues can be resolved with software updates or relatively minor repairs, others may require more significant investment. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential repair costs when considering a used 2021 Dodge Durango.