Last updated: 2026-03-04

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 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
3 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
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)
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
2020 Chevrolet Tahoe
Score: 74/100
2020 Ford Explorer
Score: 54/100
2020 Toyota Highlander
Score: 71/100
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Score: 72/100
2020 Honda Pilot
Score: 60/100
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)
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 soldSegment avg: 18.2
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.
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.
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.
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
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 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.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
18 complaintsOwners 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.
POWER TRAIN
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners 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.
ENGINE (5 complaints)
ENGINE
5 complaintsOwners 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.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaintsOwners 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.
STEERING (4 complaints)
STEERING
4 complaintsOwners 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.
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)
AIR BAGS
3 complaintsOwners 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.
SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
2 complaintsOwners 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.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsOwners 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.
SEATS (1 complaints)
SEATS
1 complaintSafety-relatedThe 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.
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 2020 Dodge Durango reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Dodge Durango?
How many recalls does the 2020 Dodge Durango have?
Is the 2020 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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