Four problems related to brake disc caliper have been reported for the 2001 Dodge Durango. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Dodge Durango based on all problems reported for the 2001 Durango.
Drivers side front brake caliper seized while driving on highway. Vehicle pulled strongly to the left. We were able to stop the vehicle safely. The corresponding wheel and tire were extremely hot from the friction of the dragging brake. Vehicle was brought to a Chrysler dealer for service. The dealer replace the brake caliper at our expense. The vehicle had 22,700 miles on it at the time of the incident. Old part was left at dealer and is probably not available.
Driver side front fluid leaks when brakes. Front caliper brass o-ring leaks. Replaced with correct size o-rings and bleed system.
I was having problems with my 2001 Durango coming to a complete stop when applying the brakes at certain times. I was told by the dealership to replace the brake pads, which I did. The next day, the drivers front wheel started smoking, assuming it was due to the new pads, the truck continued to be driven. A day or two later, it got so bad that the left side caliper seized up and got so hot it started a fire. I then had complete replacement of front roters, calipers and pads. About 6 months later the left side caliper started hanging up and smoking. The rotor, caliper and pads were inspected and found to be in working order. The rotors and pads were cleaned and test driven applying the brakes very hard. After that, things seemed to be working fine. It is now about 6 months later and about a year after the original incident and the left caliper is hanging up again. The brakes on this vehicle have cost me nearly $2,000 up to this point and it looks like it's going to be costing me more $$$ to get it repaired. I have never had such a problem with any vehicle I've ever owned. After my lease is up on my Durango, I will never buy another Dodge ever again.
#1-3 incidents of front brake calipers locking up causing significant steering and control problems, required the replacement of the front hub bearings as a result at the owners expense; #2-left upper ball joint required replacement to maintain safety of vehicle (right side beginning to make the same sound); #3-multiple incidents (at least 5) of cel coming on within last 9 months-the last (8/20/04) indicates that the fuel pump, gas tank, and other components will need to be replaced as the gas tank becomes concave after the vehicle runs for 15-30 minutes leading to a possible explosion.