Last updated: 2026-03-04

72
GoodReliability score: 72 out of 100, rated Good
2020 Dodge Durango

2020 Dodge Durango Reliability Score & Common Problems

The 2020 Dodge Durango scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 62 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

2020 is 6 years after the facelift refresh.

Recalls

3

Complaints

62

Complaint Rate

10.7

per 10k sold

Below avg

Est. Annual Cost

$675

Below avg

Major Repair Risk

13%

NHTSA Rating

4/5

Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity35%
66/100 (Good)

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs30%
70/100 (Good)

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact20%
75/100 (Good)

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity15%
86/100 (Excellent)

Breadth of reported problem categories

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (18)POWER TRAIN (10)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)

3 recalls on record

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2020 is 6 years after the facelift refresh.

  • Year 10 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)

2011redesign
2012
2013
2014refresh
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020selected
2021refresh
2022
2023

Should You Buy the 2020 Dodge Durango?

The 2020 Dodge Durango scores 72/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2020 is 6 years after the facelift refresh.

With 62 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 (17). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.

Compared to the 2021 Dodge Durango, which scored 7 points lower. See also the 2019 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 issues reported (18 complaints)
  • POWER TRAIN: Transmission failures and shifter control module defects (10 complaints)

Compare 2020 Dodge Durango With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

  • 3 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (18)
  • POWER TRAIN (10)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
  • ENGINE (5)
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)
  • STEERING (4)
  • AIR BAGS (3)
  • SEAT BELTS (2)
  • VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)
  • SEATS (1)
  • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
  • WHEELS (1)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (1)
  • SUSPENSION (1)
  • STRUCTURE (1)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

3

recalls on record

The 2020 Dodge Durango has 3 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

10.7

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 18.2

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

3

Fires

2

Injuries

6

Deaths

0

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2020 Dodge Durango Recall Details

3 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Dodge Durango. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

21V2800002021-04-22

AIR BAGS

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Durango vehicles. The Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain (SABIC) fastener may be loose or missing.

Consequence

A loose or missing fastener may cause the side curtain air bag to deploy incorrectly, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will tighten or replace the fastener, free of charge. Owner notification letters were sent on May 7, 2021. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Y16.

20V1910002020-09-10

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.

25V8760002025-12-17

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Rollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ram Promaster vehicles equipped with QRT-Deluxe and QRT-Max wheelchair restraints. Please refer to Rollx's recall report for specific model year information. The retractors may not lock, preventing the wheelchair from being properly secured.

Consequence

An unsecured wheelchair can move during transit, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Rollx will work with Q'Straint to inspect and replace the retractors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 5, 2026. Owners may contact Rollx's customer service at 1-800-956-6668.

2020 Dodge Durango NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 4 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 3/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 21.2%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Restraint (Not Available)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat, 3rd row)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (No)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (None)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Not Available)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Dodge Durango Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5

Based 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

Durango
$675
Category Avg
$784
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

When Buying a Used 2020 Dodge Durango

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.

  • Inspect rear racetrack taillight for water intrusion and LED failure
  • Test transmission for hard shifting or failure to accelerate
  • Check for any electrical system warnings or malfunctions
  • Verify engine performance under load for power loss or shaking
  • Inspect seat belts for proper retraction and fastening
  • Test vehicle speed control for unintended acceleration or delayed response
  • Check power steering functionality for any locking or stiffness

Check Any 2020 Dodge Durango's History Before You Buy

Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2020 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.

2020 Dodge Durango Common Problems by Component

62 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

18
10
7
8
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (18)POWER TRAIN (10)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)ENGINE (5)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)STEERING (4)AIR BAGS (3)SEAT BELTS (2)Other (8)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

18 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Durango frequently report issues with water intrusion in the rear "racetrack" taillight assembly, leading to premature failure of the LED lights. Symptoms commonly described include the complete or partial failure of taillights, license plate lights, and backup lights, often resulting in diminished rear visibility at night. This problem appears to affect vehicles as early as 41,000 miles and may require costly replacements. Additionally, complaints highlight a sharp edge on the rear taillights that has caused injuries, with at least three injuries reported. These issues may pose safety risks, such as reduced visibility and potential for injury, which prospective buyers should consider.

18 complaints total3 injuries

POWER TRAIN

10 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Durango frequently report issues with the power train, particularly involving transmission failures and shifter control module defects. Common symptoms include hard shifting, failure to accelerate, and service messages on the instrument panel. These issues typically arise between 20,000 and 91,000 miles. Some complaints involve crashes, with two incidents resulting in injuries when vehicles unexpectedly rolled away after being put in park. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring transmission problems and the associated safety risks.

10 complaints total3 crashes2 injuries

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

7 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Durango frequently report issues with the electrical system, including problems with the racetrack lighting on the tailgate, which can lead to non-functional tag lights. Multiple complaints highlight faults with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), including a melted fuse and crank no start issues, occurring repeatedly. One report describes a fire incident when the vehicle was auto-started, resulting in the total loss of the vehicle at approximately 11,200 miles. Additionally, there are mentions of unintended vehicle start from key fob button presses and compromised airbag systems due to a faulty driver-side seat wire harness. These issues suggest potential safety implications, such as fire risk and compromised safety features, which are important considerations for prospective used car buyers.

7 complaints total1 fire
ENGINE (5 complaints)

ENGINE

5 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Durango frequently report issues related to engine performance and oil leakage. Common symptoms include engine oil filter housing leaks, which lead to oil pooling on top of the engine, potentially posing a fire risk. Additionally, multiple owners experience significant power loss and engine shaking under heavy load or high RPM, often accompanied by a check engine light and a malfunctioning auto start-stop feature. These issues sometimes occur during critical driving situations, such as highway passing, raising safety concerns. Complaints do not consistently mention specific mileage ranges, but the problems seem to persist beyond the warranty period.

5 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

5 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Durango report issues primarily related to the vehicle's infotainment system and software functionality. Complaints frequently mention that the infotainment system, including the backup camera, malfunctions following a battery replacement. Additionally, there are reports of software defects where the vehicle does not alert the driver if the car is left running after exiting with the key fob, posing potential safety risks if parked in enclosed spaces. Another complaint notes a warning light for airbag issues on a government fleet vehicle. While specific mileage ranges are not consistently mentioned, these issues seem to occur after some use of the vehicle. Safety implications are noted, particularly regarding the lack of an alert for the running engine, which could lead to carbon monoxide risks in enclosed areas.

5 complaints total
STEERING (4 complaints)

STEERING

4 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Durango report steering-related issues, with complaints frequently mentioning power steering malfunctions and steering column defects. Symptoms include the steering wheel locking while driving, steering column rubbing against brake lines, and sudden loss of electric power steering, often accompanied by warning messages. These issues are reported at varying mileages, from as low as 170 miles to over 80,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple complaints describe the vehicle becoming difficult or impossible to steer, which can lead to potential collisions. Buyers should be aware of these steering issues, especially regarding the possibility of power steering failure in new or used models.

4 complaints total
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)

AIR BAGS

3 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Durango report issues related to the airbag system, with complaints frequently mentioning problems with the passenger active headrest and seatbelt sensors. One owner describes the passenger active headrest unexpectedly deploying without any impact. Another common issue involves the driver's seatbelt buckle failing to register as buckled, which leads to persistent warning chimes and the airbag system being disengaged unless downward pressure is applied to the seatbelt. Additionally, some drivers experience the seatbelt and airbag indicator chimes activating even when all seatbelts are properly fastened. These issues are reported to occur without specific mileage or timeline patterns, and they highlight potential safety implications due to the airbag system's compromised functionality.

3 complaints total
SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Durango report issues with the seat belts, specifically involving retraction and fastening difficulties. One common problem is the driver side seat belt not retracting automatically, requiring manual intervention to roll it back up. Another issue involves improper assembly of the seat belt, making it difficult to fasten without the belt twisting. These problems do not specify mileage ranges or timelines. Safety implications include potential malfunction or difficulty in securing the seat belt, which could compromise passenger safety in the event of an accident.

2 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2020 Dodge Durango's vehicle speed control, including unintended acceleration and delayed response when attempting to accelerate. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle accelerating on its own, even when the driver is not pressing the accelerator, and difficulty in stopping the vehicle despite applying the brakes. One owner describes the vehicle accelerating from 42 mph to 65 mph without input, while another mentions the cruise control behaving as if it were engaged without being activated. These problems occur both shortly after purchase and at higher mileages, such as 26,750 miles. Safety implications include the potential for loss of control, as owners report needing to take evasive actions to avoid other vehicles.

2 complaints total
SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaintSafety-related
2025-10-17Fire reported1 injury

The contact owns a 2020 Dodge Durango. The contact stated that moments after starting the vehicle and while driving approximately 55 MPH, the contact suddenly felt a sharp burning pain in the buttocks area. The contact immediately stopped the vehicle and discovered a burn hole in the clothing and a skin burn to the buttocks. While inspecting the vehicle, a burn hole was discovered in the front driver's seat cushion. During the incident, the contact indicated that the seat heat was in the on position and no flames or burning odor were present inside the vehicle. The vehicle was later driven to the local dealer, who indicated an electrical fire had occurred inside the front driver's seat and the entire seat needed to be replaced. The cause of the electrical fire was not determined, and the vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed that an engineer would inspect the vehicle, but no inspection occurred, and no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 130,000.

When Do 2020 Dodge Durango Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

50,000–90,000 milesTransmission failures
11,000–30,000 milesElectrical system failures
41,000–45,000 milesExterior lighting failures

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).

See full Dodge Durango years-to-avoid analysis →

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.

avg 71
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Dodge Durango reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201864/100Good
201967/100Good
202072/100Good
202165/100Good
202271/100Good
202375/100Good
202478/100Good
202578/100Good

Dodge Durango Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202677/100 (predicted)Predicted00
202578/1000Good05
202478/100+3Good06
202375/100+4Good227
202271/100+6Good647
202165/100-7Good7159
2020(selected)72/100+5Good362
201967/100+3Good4128
201864/100Good5219

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 Dodge Durango reliable?
The 2020 Dodge Durango has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 72/100. It is reasonably reliable with 3 recalls and 62 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Dodge Durango?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 Dodge Durango include: EXTERIOR LIGHTING (18 complaints), POWER TRAIN (10 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), ENGINE (5 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2020 Dodge Durango have?
The 2020 Dodge Durango has 3 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2020 Dodge Durango expensive to maintain?
The 2020 Dodge Durango has estimated annual repair costs of $675/year, which is $109 less than the fullsize SUVs average of $784. With a reliability score of 72/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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.

See incorrect data? Report an issue