Last updated: 2026-03-04

2019 Dodge Durango Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2019 Dodge Durango scores 67/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 128 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2019 is 5 years after the facelift refresh.
Recalls
4
Complaints
128
Complaint Rate
18.9
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$675
Below avgMajor Repair Risk
13%
NHTSA Rating
4/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
4 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is 5 years after the facelift refresh.
- Year 9 in the Third generation (WD; 2011) (2011–2023).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 3rd generation Durango (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
Third generation (WD; 2011)
Should You Buy the 2019 Dodge Durango?
The 2019 Dodge Durango scores 67/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2019 is 5 years after the facelift refresh.
With 128 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to exterior lighting (30). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2020 Dodge Durango, which scored 5 points higher. See also the 2018 Dodge Durango for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- $109 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize SUVs
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Low major repair risk (13%)
Cons
- Moderate recall count
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Water intrusion due to failed gaskets or seals (30 complaints)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (29 complaints)
Compare 2019 Dodge Durango With
2019 Chevrolet Tahoe
Score: 74/100
2019 Ford Explorer
Score: 69/100
2019 Toyota Highlander
Score: 70/100
2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Score: 67/100
2019 Honda Pilot
Score: 56/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (30)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (29)
- SERVICE BRAKES (15)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12)
- POWER TRAIN (9)
- ENGINE (8)
- STEERING (6)
- AIR BAGS (5)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3)
- SUSPENSION (2)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- FUEL SYSTEM (1)
- Carry Handle (1)
- STRUCTURE (1)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)
- SEAT BELTS (1)
- SEATS (1)
- ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) (1)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
The 2019 Dodge Durango has 4 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
18.9
per 10k soldSegment avg: 20.3
Safety Incidents
Crashes
4
Fires
2
Injuries
8
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Dodge Durango Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Dodge Durango. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles. A malfunction in the antilock-brake system (ABS) module may incorrectly illuminate the brake lights and disable the ABS and electronic stability control (ESC). In addition, the vehicle operator may be able to start and shift out of Park without the brake pedal being applied.
Consequence
A vehicle that can be started and shifted out of Park without applying the brake pedal can result in a vehicle rollaway. Disabled ABS and ESC systems can reduce vehicle handling and control in certain driving situations. Brake lights that incorrectly illuminate can fail to properly indicate the driver's intention to following traffic. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the integrated pressure transducer and update the ABS module software, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 16, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 94B. This recall replaces previous recall number 22V-426. Vehicles previously remedied under 22V-426 will need to have the new remedy completed.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles. A malfunction in the antilock-brake system (ABS) module may illuminate the brake lights, and allow the vehicle to start and shift out of Park without the brake pedal being applied.
Consequence
A vehicle that starts and shifts out of Park without applying the brake pedal can result in vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash without prior warning and/or injury to others outside of the vehicle.
Remedy
This recall is replaced by NHTSA recall number 24V838. Vehicles already repaired under this recall will need to have the new remedy completed. The remedy includes updated HCU/ABS module software that prevents the HCU/ABS module from falsely reading pressure in the primary circuit. FCA has decided to do a two-Phase Campaign remedy schedule. Phase 1 began November 17, 2022. Phase 2 begin date has not been determined yet. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were mailed July 28, 2020. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 29, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z48.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays. A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Consequence
The lingering rearview image can distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will update the radio display software, free of charge. Optionally, owners can choose to remotely update their software via an Over-The-Air (OTA) update available as of May 1, 2020. The recall began April 27, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W30-W37.
2019 Dodge Durango NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 21.2%
Safety Technologies
Dodge Durango Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$675
vs $784 avg for fullsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
13%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2019 Dodge Durango
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect rear racetrack tail light for water intrusion and functionality
- Check for coolant leaks and inspect coolant lines for wear
- Test electronic power steering for smooth operation
- Verify engine and transmission performance, especially during gear shifts
- Ensure all airbags are functional and check for any warning lights
- Test start/stop system for proper operation and check for battery drain issues
Check Any 2019 Dodge Durango's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2019 Durango in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Dodge Durango with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2019 Dodge Durango Common Problems by Component
128 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
30 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the 2019 Dodge Durango's rear "racetrack" tail light assembly, primarily involving water intrusion due to failed gaskets or seals. This leads to moisture buildup, causing the LED lights to dim or fail entirely, often affecting the license plate illumination as well. Complaints typically mention repair costs upwards of $1,500 to $2,000, with some cases occurring under warranty but recurring post-warranty. Many reports indicate these failures occur around 28,000 to 130,000 miles. Safety implications include reduced rear visibility during night driving, increasing the risk of being stopped by law enforcement for non-functioning lights, though no crashes or injuries are described. Buyers should be aware of potential costly repairs and inspect for water damage in the lighting assemblies.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
29 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Dodge Durango frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly concerning water intrusion in the rear "racetrack" LED lighting assembly. This problem often leads to short-circuiting, causing rear and license plate lights to fail, which several owners identify as a safety hazard during night driving. Additionally, multiple complaints describe complete vehicle shutdowns while driving, sometimes accompanied by a loss of power steering and brakes, posing significant safety risks. A few reports also mention parasitic battery drain and dimming headlights due to low voltage. These issues are observed across various mileage ranges, with some occurring as early as 17,900 miles. Notably, two complaints involve fires, one allegedly linked to a malfunctioning seat warmer. This information may be crucial for prospective buyers considering a used 2019 Dodge Durango.
SERVICE BRAKES
15 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Dodge Durango frequently report issues related to the service brakes, primarily involving recall repairs that have not been completed due to parts unavailability. Complaints typically mention symptoms such as brake lights remaining illuminated, ABS warning lights, and grinding sounds when braking. Several owners describe difficulties in controlling the vehicle, with some experiencing swerving or delayed braking response, particularly around 20,000 to 130,000 miles. These issues sometimes coincide with other electronic stability control warnings and traction control malfunctions. Safety implications include potential loss of control, which could be concerning for buyers considering this vehicle.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
12 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Dodge Durango frequently report issues with the vehicle's cooling system, particularly leaking coolant lines and faulty clamps causing coolant loss and potential engine overheating. Complaints often describe coolant leaks occurring around 40,000 miles, with some owners noting that repairs are labor-intensive and costly due to the vehicle's assembly design. Additionally, there are reports of interior door handle coatings peeling and causing injuries, as well as sharp tail light edges leading to cuts. Safety implications include one reported crash where airbags did not deploy, resulting in injuries. Electrical issues with the Uconnect system are also mentioned, with drivers experiencing frequent, distracting weather alerts that cannot be disabled, affecting screen visibility and posing a potential distraction risk.
POWER TRAIN (9 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
9 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Dodge Durango frequently report issues with the power train, particularly involving the transmission and engine components. Symptoms commonly described include stalling, failure to shift gears, and unexpected loss of power, often accompanied by warning lights like the check engine light. These issues typically arise around 53,000 to 108,000 miles, with some owners noting repeated occurrences. Safety concerns are highlighted in several complaints, including instances where the vehicle unexpectedly stalls or loses power, posing potential risks during driving, such as rolling backward into traffic. Buyers considering a used 2019 Durango should be aware of these reported issues, especially regarding the transmission and engine reliability.
ENGINE (8 complaints)
ENGINE
8 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Dodge Durango frequently report engine-related issues, particularly concerning coolant leaks and overheating. Several complaints highlight problems with coolant lines rubbing against vehicle components, leading to leaks and overheating, often occurring around 6 months apart. These issues typically arise at mileages between 57,000 and 61,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of sudden overheating and potential loss of power, with one report mentioning unintended acceleration requiring immediate driver intervention. Additionally, some owners describe persistent fuel smells and stalling on steep inclines, suggesting possible fuel delivery and evaporative system concerns. These patterns may be useful for prospective buyers to consider, especially when evaluating vehicles with similar mileage.
STEERING (6 complaints)
STEERING
6 complaintsOwners report issues with the electronic power steering in the 2019 Dodge Durango, frequently mentioning a complete loss of power steering functionality. Symptoms include the steering wheel locking up or becoming extremely difficult to turn, often accompanied by a "power steering unavailable" warning message. These issues typically occur without prior warning and are reported at various mileage points, including vehicles with just over 40,000 miles. Several complaints highlight the danger of losing steering control while driving, particularly at highway speeds or during turns, posing potential safety risks such as near-misses with other vehicles. Additionally, owners express frustration over the unavailability of replacement parts, leading to prolonged repair times.
AIR BAGS (5 complaints)
AIR BAGS
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the airbag system in the 2019 Dodge Durango, with multiple complaints indicating airbag lights signaling system malfunctions. In three cases involving crashes, airbags failed to deploy, resulting in four injuries, with speeds reported between 29 to 40 mph. These incidents typically occur at relatively low mileages, such as 500 and 13,000 miles. The lack of airbag deployment in crashes is a significant safety concern, particularly as owners describe severe vehicle damage and personal injuries. Buyers should consider these reports when evaluating the vehicle’s safety features.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
3 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Dodge Durango frequently report issues related to engine and cooling system failures. Common symptoms include vehicle stalling, smoke from under the hood, coolant leaks, and overheating. Complaints often describe leaking fluids, with some owners identifying factory-installed clamps causing damage to hoses. These issues are typically reported at mileages ranging from approximately 62,000 to 82,000 miles. Safety implications include the potential for engine stalling and overheating, which may pose risks while driving. Buyers considering a used 2019 Dodge Durango should be aware of these recurring issues and inspect the cooling system thoroughly.
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)
SUSPENSION
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the suspension of the 2019 Dodge Durango, particularly when towing. Complaints frequently mention a significant drop in the rear of the vehicle when towing a 6000-pound load, which is equipped with the factory towing package. This condition is noted as making the vehicle feel unsafe to drive. Additionally, there is mention of a recall related to a safety issue that remains unresolved over a year after notification, impacting the ability to sell or trade the vehicle. These issues suggest potential safety implications, particularly related to vehicle stability and control when towing.
When Do 2019 Dodge Durango Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Dodge Durango Years
Best Dodge Durango Years to Buy
The best Dodge Durango year is 2025 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (78/100) and 2023 (75/100).
Dodge Durango Years to Avoid
The worst Dodge Durango year is 2018 with a score of 64/100, primarily due to electrical system (74) issues. Also avoid 2021 (65/100).
2018
5 recalls · 219 complaints
2021
7 recalls · 159 complaints
Dodge Durango Reliability Score Trend
Dodge Durango reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 76/100 compared to 67/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 78/100 | Good |
Dodge Durango Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Dodge Durango reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Dodge Durango?
How many recalls does the 2019 Dodge Durango have?
Is the 2019 Dodge Durango expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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