2014 Dodge Journey Reliability ReportD- grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2014 Dodge Journey
- The system most likely to surface first: electrical system (major severity).
- Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:wiring.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2012 Dodge Journey earns a 68.
Is the 2014 Dodge Journey Worth Buying?
The 2014 Dodge Journey is a budget-friendly family hauler, but its affordability comes with significant reliability compromises. Expect recurrent electrical gremlins, premature suspension wear, and potential transmission headaches, making this a vehicle to approach with extreme caution unless you're prepared for above-average repair costs.
The 2014 Dodge Journey is a visually appealing and affordable family vehicle that, unfortunately, carries a significant risk of recurring and expensive repairs. While the V6 model offers a better driving experience, both engine options are plagued by known electrical and suspension issues. Only consider this vehicle…
Best Model Years
2015-2019 (specifically V6 models, after some initial kinks were addressed, though core issues persist)
Years to Avoid
2009-2013 (early models with more problems), any model with the 2.4L/4-speed automatic.
Biggest Strengths
- Affordable purchase price
- Spacious interior for its class
- Available V6 engine power
What Tends to Fail First on the 2014 Dodge Journey
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 Dodge Journey, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) is a known weak point across many Chrysler products, leading to intermittent or complete failures of various electrical systems (fuel pump, wipers, horn, headlights, starter). Wiring harness iss…
The 4-speed automatic (2.4L engine) is under-stressed and prone to harsh shifts and early failure. The 6-speed automatic (3.6L V6) is better but can suffer from solenoid issues, rough shifts, and shudder, requiring costly repairs or repl…
Front control arm bushings, sway bar links, and tie rod ends tend to wear out prematurely, leading to clunking noises, loose steering, and uneven tire wear. Wheel bearings also have a shorter lifespan than average.
2014 Dodge Journey Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 Dodge Journey most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Maintenance & Inspection Zone
At this mileage, you should be performing routine fluid changes and inspecting for early signs of brake wear or unusual suspension noises, which can begin manifesting earlier in Journeys.
Increased Wear & Electrical Watch
This mileage often marks the onset of more significant suspension component wear and the initial appearance of electrical gremlins, especially related to the Uconnect system or minor sensor faults.
Critical Component Risk Zone
At this point, the risk of major component failures, particularly the infamous TIPM or significant transmission issues, substantially increases. Engine oil leaks or water pump failures also become more probable.
High Risk - End of Life Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the Journey is in its high-risk phase, where major system failures become much more common. Transmission replacement, engine rebuilds, or recurring electrical nightmares are not uncommon, making continued ownership…
2014 Dodge Journey Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 Dodge Journey on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., suspension overhaul, Uconnect replacement)
How Long Does the 2014 Dodge Journey Last?
Focus on well-maintained, lower-mileage V6 models, ideally under 70,000 miles. Be highly cautious of Journeys approaching or exceeding 90,000 miles due to the increased risk of major component failures.
What 2014 Dodge Journey Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Affordable purchase price for a mid-size SUV with three rows (when equipped)
- Surprisingly spacious and versatile interior, good for families
- Smooth ride quality on most roads, especially with the V6
- Available V6 engine provides adequate power for highway merging
Common Frustrations
- Frequent, unpredictable electrical problems (TIPM, Uconnect issues)
- Excessive brake wear and short lifespan of suspension components
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the V6 engine
- Underpowered and inefficient 2.4L I4 engine option
Who Should Buy the 2014 Dodge Journey?
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers needing three rows occasionally
- Those who perform DIY repairs and have access to parts discounts
- Drivers prioritizing ride comfort over sporty handling
Not Ideal For
- Anyone seeking long-term, trouble-free ownership
- Drivers on a strict budget for maintenance and repairs
How the 2014 Dodge Journey Compares to Rivals
The Journey falls significantly behind its Japanese and even many Korean competitors in long-term reliability and overall build quality, often sharing reliability concerns with other domestically produced vehicles of its era.
More Reliable Than
- 2009-2010 Dodge Journey (earlier models with more initial issues)
- Certain problematic European vehicles of the same era (e.g., some older Land Rover models for electrical issues)
Comparable To
- Hyundai Santa Fe (pre-2013 models)
- Kia Sorento (pre-2014 models, though generally better)
- Chevrolet Equinox/GMC Terrain (earlier generations, especially with I4 engine issues)
2014 Dodge Journey Recall History
7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Dodge Journey vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag may unexpectedly deploy if the air bag wiring harness gets chafed within the steering wheel and short circuits.
What breaks on the 2014 Dodge Journey?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Dodge Journey Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Dodge Journey. Click any year for its full report.
2014 Dodge Journey Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2014 Dodge Journey
Parts and accessories matched to your 2014 Dodge Journey
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Frequently Asked Questions
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