Engine Failure Problems of Dodge Durango - part 2

Dodge Durango owners have reported 72 problems related to engine failure (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Dodge Durango based on all problems reported for the Durango.

36 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 01/13/2011

After nothing but normal driving experiences, upon attempting to start my 2004 Dodge Durango with a 5. 7 l hemi v8, there was a large wrenching sound and the subsequent banging in the timing of the engine. The last time I drove the car it was fine and actually averaged 20 mpg as per usual highway driving. The Dodge service technician later informed me that a valve lifter, rocker arm, and piston had all gone and the vehicle requires a new motor. Since I only have 116,000 miles on it and service it regularly, I find this to be a defect. This feeling is also justified by the fact that I can easily find over 100 postings on vehicle forums related to engine failure at start-up, idle or low speeds, all with similar outcomes to mine. There was no recourse offered by the dealer, who instead offered me an option of a $6500 rebuild or $450 for the car as-is and were too eager to get me into their showroom.

See all problems of the 2004 Dodge Durango 🔎.

37 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 10/22/2010

I have a 2004 Dodge Durango with a blown engine. My 5. 7 hemi has approximately 96,000 miles on it. My vehicle's engine has been properly maintained for the four years I've owned it. I've kept the oil changed every 3,000 miles, have run only high octane fuel in it, and put less than 10,000 miles a year on it. My 17 year old daughter was allowed to drive it to her dental appointment which is thirty miles from our hometown. However, she was not able to get out of the driveway. She called and told me the engine was "banging," and I don't mean slang for awesome. So, she took her old maxima with over 200,000 miles to her dental appointment, and when I got home, I found out what she was talking about. The engine has thrown a rod. I called Chrysler to ask if there is a recall on the vehicle since I researched my problem on the internet and found that my engine failure is not an isolated incident. I understand completely that I have no warranty on the vehicle, but at such a low amount of miles, I assumed that Dodge had realized that they have an obvious mechanical or engineering defect that needs to be corrected. Unfortunately, Chrysler does not agree. After talking to several agents at Chrysler, I was assigned a case manager who had come to the conclusion that I was on my own, but they wanted to offer me four complimentary oil changes! I did not make that up. Four oil changes for my blown engine. I've babied this vehicle; most of the miles on my Durango have been highway miles. I've only hauled a trailer a handful of times. This vehicle should not be worn out. I still have two years to pay on it. As a poor school teacher who relied on this vehicle for transporting his family safely, I am severely disappointed with Chrysler's choice to ignore so many people who have experienced this very same problem of counting on Chrysler to protect our families with a reliable vehicle built to safely carry our families in traffic and through all types of weather.

38 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 09/06/2010

Vehicle: 2004 Dodge Durango limited with the 5. 7l hemi v8 engine. 130,000 miles on vehicle. Driving vehicle at highways speed (50 mph) it suffered a catastrophic engine failure resulting in a hole in the side of the engine block. Rod failure. Connecting rod simply broke in half for no reason. Failure is not the result of neglected maintenance! the maintenance schedule as prescribed in the operators manual was strictly followed using the recommend oil (mobil 1 5-30w). Mechanics summation of cause was "poor quality connecting rod from manufacturer". The internals of the engine showed no wear and was very clean. Replaced engine with used engine cost was over $3000.

39 Engine Failure problem of the 1999 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 07/28/2010

Engine failure , Dodge Durango, complete loss of power and very dangerous, computer is mounted under hood next to motor and over heats and shuts down the vehicle. It needs to be remounted inside the cab of vehicle.

See all problems of the 1999 Dodge Durango 🔎.

40 Engine Failure problem of the 2006 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 07/25/2010

Engine failure due to water being introduced into engine by emissions system.

See all problems of the 2006 Dodge Durango 🔎.

41 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 06/22/2010

Engine failure at 70 mph - no warning, no prior engine problems. Rod goes through side of block. 5. 7 hemi.

42 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 11/25/2009

Vehicle upon exiting interstate blew the engine. Steering and braking functions were disabled. 4,000lb SUV remained uncontrollable until it careened into an embankment. Someone has to do something. There are countless people with this same issue of engine failure with the same engine. Is there nothing that can be done? we paid large amounts of money to support Chrysler and their is no positive return for the buyer. . Read more...

43 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 04/16/2009

The contact owns a 2004 Dodge Durango. While driving approximately 40 mph, the vehicle suddenly shut off without warning. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer where the engine was replaced. A year after the failure occurred, the contact was driving 50 mph when the vehicle suddenly shut off without warning. The vehicle had not been inspected or repaired when the complaint was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 61,000. The current mileage was approximately 73,000. Updated 06/29/10 the consumer stated the second engine failed at 73,000 miles. The #1 cylinder was found in the oil pan in pieces. The dealer stated a foreign object may have been in the cylinder head, but could not find positive proof. Updated 07/16/10.

44 Engine Failure problem of the 2001 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 01/02/2009

Known daimler Chrysler issue (engine failure after low oil pressure) has occurred. Engine failure du to sludge. Engine showed decrease in oil pressure, when checking the oil noticed sludge on oil cap. When contacting dealership they stated I had to replace the engine. $8000 is the total estimated cost. They also stated this is a well known issue and that it comes up very frequently. Mechanics have stated that they are still waiting for a recall to be issued as there have been reported deaths and injuries. I had my 5 children with me and was left in the middle of the woods with no cell reception and the temps getting to below 0. Vehicle only has 102000 miles on it and should have lasted longer. Contacted Dodge with the customer support explaining that it was too bad I bought a Dodge! there are not enough complaints about the engine! I have searched the internet and found hundreds of complaints. Recall this engine!.

See all problems of the 2001 Dodge Durango 🔎.

45 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 07/12/2008

There was almost a multi car crash!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! the car quit in the middle of driving into an intersection through oncoming traffic. I'm told by dealer the engine failed and needs to be replaced. The oil has been changed, and the car has been maintained. . Read more...

46 Engine Failure problem of the 2001 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 04/06/2007

The contact owns a 2001 Dodge Durango. While driving 65 mph on 04/06/2007 the engine failed. The vehicle would not restart and was towed to the dealer. The oil was changed at the required mileage; however, the mechanic stated that the motor was beyond it's limit with oil and caused the engine to seize up. Before the engine failed the oil pressure gauge was illuminated. The current mileage was 69,000, and the failure mileage was unknown. The engine was replaced and the owner has possession of the old engine.

47 Engine Failure problem of the 2000 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 12/29/2006

Without warning, well maintained 2000 Dodge Durango suffered sudden engine failure. 2 repair shops declare engine worthless and must be replaced. Learn hundreds of Durango owners experiencing same problems. Contact daimler Chrysler. Their response unsatisfactory. Currently contacting several consumer agencies, attorney general office & local senators. Problem currently pending resolution.

See all problems of the 2000 Dodge Durango 🔎.

48 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 12/03/2006

Engine died as we were exiting the freeway after driving about 40 miles. Had it towed to dealership. Were told the engine failed because of sludge build-up from failure to change oil often enough. $6000 to replace with a remanufactured engine. New engine would have been $8, 000. We did not have receipts of the oil changes performed, and so we had to pay for engine replacement. Have since heard of many others who had the same experience.

49 Engine Failure problem of the 2000 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 11/05/2006

Internal engine failure at 74000 miles.

50 Engine Failure problem of the 2000 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 05/02/2006

I own a 2000 Dodge Durango. I change my oil every 3,000 miles. Today my mechanic and I found a heavy amount of sludge under oil cap and all around filler neck. This indicates that there is a huge build up of sludge in the engine. This will ultimately lead to engine failure very soon. Internet searches reveal this is a very common problem and Chrysler has done nothing about it. My Durango has 56,000 miles on it and I am afraid to drive it.

51 Engine Failure problem of the 1999 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 12/26/2005

Engine failed at 60,400 miles. Vehicle was properly mainatined all work done at the dealership.

52 Engine Failure problem of the 2003 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 12/12/2005

Sudden engine failure while driving.

See all problems of the 2003 Dodge Durango 🔎.

53 Engine Failure problem of the 2004 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 04/06/2005

While driving at low speeds engine failed. As a result, the steering and brakes become inoperable. This failure occurred three times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but they have been unable to find the cause of the problem. The vehicle has been at the dealer since Feb 24,2005. Dealer service manager said there was a software fix but admitted there has never been a problem with hemi engines.

54 Engine Failure problem of the 1998 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 11/30/2004

While driving my1998 Durango the oil pressure gauge suddenly started to go up and down . With in a minute or two total engine failure I called a mechanic he stated this was a common problem with Durangos said it would cost over 3000 to fix I have had this vehicle 1 yr and have replaced brakes ac compressor ball joints and tie rods I can not afford this kind of repairs I am a single mom and recently lost my job.

See all problems of the 1998 Dodge Durango 🔎.

55 Engine Failure problem of the 1999 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 03/15/2004

While driving 35 mph engine failed without warning. Dealer stated sludge built up in the engine compartment.

56 Engine Failure problem of the 1999 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 02/23/2004

Ball joints and steering knuckle replaced at a cost of $1200 + with only 58000 miles on it at that time. Now the oil pressure is fluctuating wildly which could be an indication of premature engine failure. Vehicle now has approx 72000 miles on it now.

57 Engine Failure problem of the 2001 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 01/15/2004

Known daimler Chrysler issue (engine failure after low oil pressure) has occurred on my vehicle. I am in the 39 month of a 39 month lease and out of warranty. Dealer wants me to pay for a new motor which will cost between $5000 and $8000.

58 Engine Failure problem of the 1999 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 01/06/2004

Oil pressure drop on Dodge Durango leading to engine failure. Many people having the same problem due to engine sludge. Even with regular oil changes the engine eventually fails. Dodge has sold bad engines and is now trying to cover it up.

59 Engine Failure problem of the 2000 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 12/10/2003

Engine failure on 2000 Dodge Durango due to sludge buildup/filter failure.

60 Engine Failure problem of the 2001 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 08/03/2003

2001 Dodge Durango upper ball joints were corroded. The consumer received a recall letter after she had already experienced the failure. With only 64,000 miles on the vehicle, the engine failed.

61 Engine Failure problem of the 2002 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 07/18/2003

Engine failure, stalling.

See all problems of the 2002 Dodge Durango 🔎.

62 Engine Failure problem of the 2001 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 02/14/2003

2001 Dodge Durango has engine failure. Daimler Chrysler will not cover the costs to have a new engine put in my vehicle. Oil sludge problem and they are saying it's due to lack of maintenance. The vehicle has 26,000 miles and I have emails and complaints from hundreds of other individuals with the same complaints.

63 Engine Failure problem of the 2000 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 01/30/2003

Engine failure in my 2000 Dodge Durango. Engine showed oil sludging that caused engine failure even though car 2. 5yrs old with 32k miles.

64 Engine Failure problem of the 1998 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 01/23/2003

While driving down interstate on the way to work, oil pressure goes to 0 and truck stalled. Got truck towed to shop and was informed by shop that the engine had seized up. Engine failure due to oil sludge. This is the first and only problem we have ever had with this truck and now I search the internet and find hundreds of people this has happened to and that the company does not stand behind their engines and doesn't admit there is any problems. Now we have to come up with the $4,000 - $6,000 to get a new engine and still make a truck payment.

65 Engine Failure problem of the 2000 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 01/10/2003

Complete engine failure due to sludge. 41k miles. Schedule a oil changes as per owners manual. The dealship performed the majority of the oil changes for which there were records (the last was just 2000 mi prior to failure) there were a few that were performed by me for which I couldn't produce the receipts of the oil and filter purchase. Hence, no satisfaction was provided by either the dealership or Chrysler. After researching the incident further, I have found that there are at least a couple hundred others with similar stories. Obviously these engines run excessively hot under normal circumstances, thus producing sludge that builds up over time (collecting in the oil pan and obstructing the pickup filter in my case) that is not removed by routine oil changes. This smacks of design flaws to me.

66 Engine Failure problem of the 2000 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 11/01/2002

Engine failure oil problem orignal problem was fuel pump deal claims engine making noise and is also knocking. I have receipts from auto shop and over the counter for purchase of oil and oil filters NJ Dodge district mgr said it was not good enought this is a oil sludge issue we have kept up maintenance on the vehicle but Chrysler will not cover the repairs under the warranty. Other Dodge owners also have same problem related to all Dodge SUV and Dodge dakota trucks. I also feel that if Dodge had change the oil they would replace the engine under the warranty. Dt.

67 Engine Failure problem of the 1999 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 04/20/2002

New engine failed at 16,000. Chrysler will not honor 3/36 due to "sludge" in engine. Said was maintenance issue, not warranty. Will not discuss with me any further.

68 Engine Failure problem of the 1998 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 11/14/2001

Engine failure due to oil sludge dealer maintains it is due to poor maintenance we maintain that the vehicle was properly cared for and that we are not the only ones that this has happened to.

69 Engine Failure problem of the 1998 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 09/15/2001

Oil pressure on 1998 Durango kept dropping to 0. Many trips to dealer were unable to determine cause of problem. Sept '01, engine failed. Replaced engine at cost of $4500. Sludge was found in old engine. Chrysler tried to say it was because of improper oil changes. Not true. March, 2005 oil pressure is dropping to 0 again. Car is at repair facility. They say it needs a new oil sending unit. I am concerned that the engine will fail again due to the apparent defect in this particular engine Chrysler makes. What can be done? Dec. 2003 we replaced the ball joints for $1300. Find out in 2004 that Chrysler recalled 2000-2003 Durangos for defective ball joints. Why were the 1998 and 99 models left out? is this not the same part as the 2000? Chrysler merely says no more information other than 98 is not included.

70 Engine Failure problem of the 1999 Dodge Durango

Failure Date: 07/01/2001

When the brakes were applied, they locked up, which caused extended stopping distance, which resulted in an accident. . At 81,000 miles the engine failed, and the master cylinder, brake booster and lines leaked.



Safety Ratings of Durango Cars
Fuel Economy of Durango Vehicles
Durango Service Bulletins
Durango Safety Recalls
Durango Defect Investigations