Dodge Journey research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Journey is one of the least expensive ways to get a crossover with an available third row. The 283-hp V6 (2011-2019) with its 6-speed automatic is much stronger than the 173-hp 2.4L four with a 4-speed, and it is the only way to get all-wheel drive. Practical touches include fold-flat seats, under-floor bins and an 8.4-inch Uconnect screen. The design dates to 2009, so fuel economy (about 17-19 mpg city) and safety tech trail newer rivals, and several recalls should be checked by VIN.
Model years covered: 2011–2020. The U.S. Dodge Journey ended after the 2020 model year; there are no 2021 or later U.S. Journeys (the later Mexico-market Journey is an unrelated rebadged GAC GS5). 2009-2010 Journeys used an older 3.5L V6 and are outside this record.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Low purchase price
- Available third row
- Strong 283 hp V6 option
- Available AWD with V6
- Flexible seating and hidden storage
- Uconnect 8 4 inch touchscreen
- Simple widely serviced mechanicals
Things to know before you buy
- 2.4 liter uses dated 4 speed automatic
- AWD only with V6 2011 2019
- 2020 is four cylinder FWD only
- Several safety recalls check by VIN
- V6 oil filter housing leaks with age
- Below average fuel economy
- Iihs small overlap rated poor
- Third row is small
- Discontinued after 2020
Generations
Generation 1 (2009–2020)
The Journey launched for 2009 on Chrysler's midsize car platform and was built in Toluca, Mexico. The 2011 facelift brought a redesigned interior, retuned suspension, Uconnect touchscreens and the 283-hp Pentastar V6 with a 6-speed automatic (with available AWD), while the 173-hp 2.4L four kept its 4-speed automatic. Later years mostly reshuffled trims (Crossroad from 2014, GT replacing R/T for 2017). For 2020 only the four-cylinder FWD model remained, and production ended that year after roughly 1.1 million built.
Buyer takeaway: For most buyers, a 2011-2019 V6 Journey is the one to get, especially with seven seats or AWD. The 2.4L four is fine for light use on a budget. Check driver-airbag, ABS-module and power-steering-hose recalls on 2011-2016 models.
Dodge Journey by model year
2020 Dodge Journey
The 2020 Journey is the final model year. Only the 173-hp 2.4L four-cylinder with a 4-speed automatic and front-wheel drive remained (about 19/25 mpg); the V6 and AWD were dropped. Trims were SE Value and Crossroad, both with standard seven-passenger seating, and it was not sold in California-emissions states. It is cheap, but slow when loaded; check the backup-camera recall by VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- Final model year
- V6 and all wheel drive dropped
- Only se value and crossroad trims
- Three row seven passenger seating standard
- Not sold in california emissions states
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; Power steering operation; Backup camera operation; Third row seat operation; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history.
2019 Dodge Journey
2019 is the last Journey with the 283-hp 3.6L V6 (6-speed automatic, about 17/25 mpg) and all-wheel drive; the 173-hp 2.4L four and 4-speed (about 19/25 mpg) continue. The lineup was trimmed to versions such as SE, Crossroad and GT (verify by VIN). Some 2019-2020 Journeys were recalled in 2025 for a backup camera that may not display, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- Last year of the V6 and all wheel drive
- Lineup trimmed with se crossroad and GT
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history; Backup camera operation.
2018 Dodge Journey
The 2018 Journey continues with the 173-hp 2.4L four (4-speed automatic, about 19/25 mpg) or the 283-hp V6 (6-speed, about 17/25 mpg, AWD available). Some 2018 Journeys were recalled for backup-camera display problems and rear brake caliper pistons, so confirm recall completion by VIN. Choose the V6 if you will carry seven people or tow.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Backup camera display recalls
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history; Backup camera operation.
2017 Dodge Journey
For 2017 the GT replaced the R/T as the top Journey. Engines are unchanged: the 173-hp 2.4L four with a 4-speed automatic (about 19/25-26 mpg) or the 283-hp 3.6L V6 with a 6-speed (about 17/25 mpg FWD, 16/24 AWD). The design dates to 2009, so the Journey trails newer rivals in safety tech and crash ratings, but it is roomy and inexpensive.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- GT trim replaces r t
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history.
2016 Dodge Journey
For 2016 the AVP and Limited trims were dropped and a Crossroad Plus was added. The 173-hp 2.4L four (4-speed automatic, about 19/26 mpg) and 283-hp V6 (6-speed, about 17/25 mpg, AWD optional) continue. Certain early-2016 Journeys are part of a transmission-pump recall, and 2009-2016 models are covered by a power-steering return-hose recall, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- Avp and limited trims dropped
- Crossroad plus added
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history; Transmission pump recall completion.
2015 Dodge Journey
The 2015 Journey is largely carryover: 173-hp 2.4L four with a 4-speed automatic (about 19/26 mpg) or 283-hp 3.6L V6 with a 6-speed (about 17/25 mpg; AWD optional). Certain 2011-2015 2.4L Journeys were recalled because the engine cover could detach and contact the exhaust manifold, and 2011-2015 models share the driver-airbag wiring recall. Confirm all recalls are complete.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Engine cover recall on 2.4 liter models
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history; Driver airbag recall completion; Engine cover recall completion if 2.4 liter.
2014 Dodge Journey
The 2014 Journey introduced the Crossroad, a rugged-look model with chrome and black accents, roof rails and smoked lights. Powertrains carry over: 173-hp 2.4L four with a 4-speed automatic (about 19/26 mpg) or 283-hp V6 with a 6-speed (about 17/25 mpg; AWD only with the V6). Check the driver-airbag, ABS-module and power-steering-hose recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- Crossroad appearance model introduced
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history; Driver airbag recall completion.
2013 Dodge Journey
The 2013 Journey added a Blacktop appearance package with gloss-black wheels, grille and trim. Engines carry over: the 173-hp 2.4L four with a 4-speed automatic (about 19/26 mpg) or the 283-hp V6 with a 6-speed (about 17/25 mpg, AWD available). Certain 2012-2015 Journeys were recalled for water entering the ABS module wiring, which can disable ABS and stability control.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- Blacktop appearance package added
- Updated dodge logo
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history; Driver airbag recall completion.
2012 Dodge Journey
The 2012 Journey keeps the refreshed design with a 173-hp 2.4L four and 4-speed automatic (about 19/26 mpg) or the 283-hp 3.6L V6 and 6-speed (about 17/25 mpg FWD, 16/24 AWD). SE and SXT names returned alongside Crew, R/T and an American Value Package model. 2011-2015 Journeys are part of a driver-airbag wiring recall, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- Se and sxt trim names return
- Low priced american value package model added
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history; Driver airbag recall completion.
2011 Dodge Journey
The 2011 Journey got a major refresh: a new 283-hp 3.6L Pentastar V6 with a 6-speed automatic (about 17/25 mpg; available with AWD) replaced the old 3.5L, alongside the carryover 173-hp 2.4L four with a 4-speed automatic (about 19/26 mpg, front-drive only). The cabin was redesigned, the suspension retuned, and an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen became available. The V6 is the better choice for a loaded seven-seat Journey.
- Engines: 2.4 liter I4 173 hp 166 lb ft; 3.6 liter pentastar V6 283 hp 260 lb ft
- Transmissions: 4 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic 62te V6
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive V6 only
- Body style: 5 door midsize crossover 5 or 7 seat
What changed:
- New 283 hp pentastar V6 replaces the 3.5 liter
- Redesigned interior
- Uconnect touchscreens including 8 4 inch
- Retuned suspension and steering
- Trims express mainstreet crew r t and lux
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and drivetrain by VIN; Transmission shift quality; V6 oil filter housing and cooler leaks if V6; Power steering operation and hose leaks; Abs and stability control warning lights; AWD power transfer unit and rear drive module if AWD; Uconnect touchscreen operation; Third row seat operation if equipped; Suspension brakes and tires; Maintenance history; Left bank misfire or ticking on early pentastar.
Known issues and what to check
- Driver Airbag Wiring Recall (2011-2015, NHTSA 17V-432) (2011–2015)
Certain 2011-2015 Journeys were recalled because the driver's airbag wiring harness can chafe inside the steering wheel and short circuit, which may cause the airbag to deploy unexpectedly.
What to do: Make sure this recall is complete on any 2011-2015 Journey. - Power Steering Return Hose Recall (2009-2016, NHTSA 16V-273) (2011–2016)
Certain 2009-2016 Journeys were recalled because the power steering return hose can rupture at start-up after exposure to cold temperatures, causing a loss of power steering assist and a fluid leak.
What to do: Confirm the hose recall was done, especially in cold climates. - ABS Module Water Intrusion Recall (2012-2015, NHTSA 15V-675) (2012–2015)
Certain 2012-2015 Journeys built April 2012 to April 2015 were recalled because water can enter the ABS module wiring harness and disable the anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control.
What to do: Confirm the ABS recall is complete and no warning lights are on. - 2.4L Four-Cylinder and 4-Speed Automatic Configuration (2011–2020)
Journeys with the 173-hp 2.4L four use an older 4-speed automatic and are front-wheel drive only. They return slightly better mpg than the V6 but feel slow when carrying seven people or cargo. A 2.4L engine-cover recall also applies to certain 2011-2015 models (NHTSA 15V-431).
What to do: Test-drive a 2.4L Journey with the load you expect to carry before deciding. - Pentastar V6 Oil Filter Housing Leaks and Early Head Wear (2011–2019)
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 (2011-2019) uses a plastic oil filter housing and cooler in the engine valley that can leak oil or coolant with age. Some early (roughly 2011-2013) Pentastars also had left cylinder-head valve-seat wear that FCA covered under an extended warranty that has likely expired.
What to do: On a V6 Journey, look for oil or coolant leaks around the oil filter housing. - Transmission Pump (2016) and Backup Camera (2018-2020) Recalls (2016–2020)
Certain 2016 Journeys built August 2015 to January 2016 were recalled because the transmission pump could seize (NHTSA 16V-461). Some 2018 Journeys had backup-camera display recalls (18V-396, 18V-398), and certain 2019-2020 Journeys were recalled in 2025 because a cracked camera microprocessor may stop the rearview image displaying (25V-552).
What to do: Check these recalls by VIN and test the backup camera. - Older Design and Crash-Test Results (2011–2020)
The Journey's basic design dates to the 2009 model year. It was rated Poor in the IIHS driver-side small-overlap front test and never offered modern driver aids such as automatic emergency braking, which matters for buyers comparing it with newer crossovers.
What to do: If advanced safety features matter, compare newer crossovers before buying.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls and completed remedies; the Journey has several airbag, steering, ABS and camera recalls that apply to specific build ranges.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Mitsubishi Outlander
- Kia Sorento
- Nissan Rogue
- Toyota RAV4
- Honda CR-V
- Ford Edge
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Dodge Grand Caravan
Questions this guide answers
- Does this Journey have the 2.4L four-cylinder or the V6?
- Which Journey years have all-wheel drive?
- Does this Journey have a third row?
- What changed in the 2011 refresh?
- What recalls should I check on a Journey?
- What fuel economy does the Journey get?
- What happened to the V6 for 2020?
- What should I inspect on a used Journey?
- Why was the Journey discontinued?
- What similar vehicles should I consider?