Common Problems with the 2017 Dodge Durango
Powertrain, Transmission Issues:
“While I was merging onto the freeway with my daughter, I accelerated to a speed of 60 mph and it felt like my transmission dropped. My car was revving at 5k rpms and would not allow me to go any faster than 45 mph. Luckily no accident occurred as I was able to safely get my child and myself off the freeway. I now have a service appointment scheduled with dodge to see why this happened. But after ready these other complaints, I now see this is a potential recall! Hopefully my warranty covers this repair…”
“While driving, the transmission gave out. There was no prior indication of any issue - no warning light and no different noise. The car wouldn't change gears, which was an extremely dangerous situation in traffic. This transmission is "supposed" to be so good that there isn't a way to even check the transmission oil - there is no dipstick. Dodge claims that the oil doesn't need to be checked, it is that good. However, after the failure and having it towed to the dealer, the report was that the transmission was was black! How is a consumer supposed to be able to check a basic, required fluid with no dipstick? There isn't a way to have any preventative check on the transmission, yet it just fails without warning? There are at least two design flaws that compromise safety - no way to check the transmission oil, and the transmission completely going out without so much as an engine light coming on first. I purchased the car new, and it only has 70,000 miles on it - a transmission should not have black fluid and go out with that little use.”
“When I driving or just hit the gas it feel like my rear differential trying to jump out the car idk I'm pretty sure it has something to do with the half shaft separation I definitely need to get this looked at because just got the car 3 days ag”
Engine Problems:
“Bought brand new in 2017 with regular car maintenance, this 2017 dodge durango starting having engine problems now with almost 100k miles on it. at first we had the check engine light on. It has smoke and misfire on cyl 3car didn't star. Mechanic repaired head on rt head on all related gaskets, replaced starter. Now, out of the sudden car starting leaking oil, took it to the mechanic and they said the engined must be replaced because a cylinder rod went through engine block. The car only has 103k miles, it always had regular and proper maintenance.”
“My vehicle only has 112,008 miles on it and it suddenly/randomly blew a head gasket. I have been told to purchase a new engine. I get ALL my regular and routine maintenance done on time. This has to have been a bad engine that was in my vehicle originally.”
“The oil cooler/ filter housing leaked causing oil to pool on the motor and leak from the vehicle. It’s apparently a common problem with this engine. It’s said that if the oil leak wasn’t noticed at first the engine would’ve seized. Definitely a defect on the manufacturers end.”
Electrical System Problems:
“This is now the 2nd time the racetrack light that houses the rear taillight assembly has allowed water to gain entry into the electrical system. Causes the lights to corrupt and short out. FCA refuses to acknowledge this issue. This is a problem not just with my vehicle but there are 100's of these reported on the internet. Including a pending class action lawsuit because FCA refuses to acknowledge the issue. We need someone with higher authority to hold FCA accountable and issue a recall with a permanent fix! Please help me and all the other owners!!!!”
“The car shut off while in drive. I was at a stop sign behind another car. They pulled away, I went to pull up and the car shut off. It started back up after being turned off and restarted.”
“Back on Aug 24th, I brought in my 2017 Dodge Durango for what I suspected was a burnt out headlight bulb on the left side. Turned out, I needed a new ballast. Today, it's now my right side that needs a new ballast. I have looked over the complaints for this SUV and it is not an uncommon issue.”
Steering Problems:
“Electric Power Steering failed at 3 years (2020) as of this date (6/2023) no repair parts (paid for years ago) can be had. Even junkyard parts are VIN-coded making them also useless.”
“Started car and got a C2217-00 code Electic power steering module internal. Electric Power Steering is disabled. The part is unavailable. Making the vehicle useless. Can't use a used part, the VIN is programmed into the unit, on starting you get a VIN mismatch error and the Electric Power Steering is again disabled.”
Exterior Lighting Problems:
“The rear tail light(race track light) has lost its seal and water has protruded the sealed of the LED tail light causing disruption in the light functioning properly. I have taken my vehicle to the dealership, it does have an extended warranty from Mopar on the vehicle, but the dealership will not cover. The replacement cost of repairing the rear tail light. The dealership informed me that this was a reoccurring issue for Dodge Durango‘s. I am concerned that the tail light will completely fail, and I will be involved in an incident due to the driver behind me not being able to recognize my vehicle with the tail light not functioning properly..”
“Apparent defect in racetrack light. Water gets into the racetrack light and causes it to burn out. This will cause the racetrack light to not fully light up when braking. Multiple people have almost rearended me. Did some research and other owners have reported an electrical smell or possible burning smell. Defect was confirmed with car dealership that water is getting into the racetrack light. Sometimes its part of light sometimes its the full light. Unable to pass inspection in NYS without light being completely lit up so this needs to be recalled as it is a safety issue and should be fixed by Dodge.”
Sources: www.nhtsa.gov, carcomplaints.com
California Lemon Law and How Valero Law Can Assist
The California Lemon Law is a crucial recourse for individuals grappling with persistent problems in their vehicles. If your 2017 Dodge Durango has exhibited chronic issues, Valero Law stands ready to assist. We can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected. Contact Valero Law for a free consultation to discuss your situation, and let us prioritize your satisfaction and peace of mind in seeking a resolution.