Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

1998 Dodge Durango Reliability ReportKeepScore 68/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A rugged, capable SUV that demands a significant commitment to proactive maintenance and potential repairs.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 1998 Dodge Durango

  • Outscores the 2000 Dodge Durango by 6 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
  • The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (major severity).
  • Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the service brakes, hydraulic.

1998 Dodge Durango: Buy or Avoid?

The 1998 Dodge Durango offers a robust body-on-frame platform and powerful V8 engines, making it a capable SUV for towing and utility at a low purchase price. However, prospective owners must proceed with caution, as it is plagued by well-documented transmission failures, electrical gremlins, and engine design flaws that demand diligent maintenance and can lead to significant repair costs.

Biggest Strengths

  • Strong V8 engine options with significant towing capacity
  • Durable body-on-frame construction for rugged use
  • Spacious interior with available third-row seating

1998 Dodge Durango — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 1998 Dodge Durango. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Automatic Transmissionmajor
2
Intake Manifold Plenum Gasketmoderate
3
Electrical Systemmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 1998 Dodge Durango

6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

CERTAIN REPLACEMENT K&N FUEL PERFORMANCE KITS, P/NOS. 57-1509, 57-1511, 57-1511-1, 57-1517, 57-1517-1, 57-1527, AND 57-1530. ALSO, A SMALL PERCENTAGE OF THESE KITS WERE SOLD UNDER THE MOPAR PERFORMANCE PARTS BRAND NAME (P/NOS. P5007069 AND P5007070). ALL KITS WERE MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 20, 1999, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 23, 2004. THESE ASSEMBLIES WERE MANUFACTURED AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN DODGE PICKUP TRUCKS AND SUVS. A SMALL PIECE OF MATERIAL FROM THE TUBE WALL COULD BE SUCKED INTO THE ENGINE THROTTLE BODY, WHICH COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE TO BECOME JAMMED IN THE OPEN POSITION.

What breaks on the 1998 Dodge Durango?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Dodge Durango — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Dodge Durango. Click any year for its full report.

Competing 1998s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

Relevant Products for Your 1998 Dodge Durango

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Frequently Asked Questions

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