Is the 2016 Dodge Journey reliable?

Reliability is average for its class and highly dependent on maintenance and prior ownership; well-serviced examples can be solid, but neglected ones can develop brake, electrical, or cooling-system issues.

What are the most common 2016 Dodge Journey problems?

Frequent reports include premature brake wear/pulsation, intermittent electrical or infotainment glitches, coolant leaks (radiator/thermostat housing/water pump), and suspension clunks from worn links or bushings.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2016 Dodge Journey?

Costs are usually moderate for a midsize crossover; routine items like brakes and tires can add up, but parts availability is generally good and repairs are straightforward at most shops.

What are the best years to buy for a used Dodge Journey?

Many shoppers prefer later first-generation models with the 3.6L V6 and updated features (often 2015–2019) due to better drivability; the best choice is a year with documented service and a clean inspection.

What should I check before buying a 2016 Dodge Journey?

Test-drive for brake vibration, scan for stored diagnostic codes, check for coolant leaks and overheating history, verify all electronics (locks, windows, infotainment), and confirm transmission operation is smooth with consistent maintenance records. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the recommended maintenance schedules to help you buy smart and keep your Journey running strong.

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

2016 Dodge Journey Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

58/ 100

HIGH RISK

Grade: D+

A tempting bargain that often becomes an expensive headache due to critical powertrain and electrical flaws.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2016 Dodge Journey?

The 2016 Dodge Journey is a high-risk proposition for any budget-conscious buyer, plagued by known transmission and electrical system vulnerabilities that can lead to significant repair bills. While it offers an attractive price point and interior space, I strongly advise extreme caution and a robust pre-purchase inspection to avoid becoming another statistic in its long history of reliability woes.

Biggest Strengths

Affordable purchase price on the used market
Spacious interior for its class with optional third-row seating
Available 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine offers decent power

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2016 Dodge Journey. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Automatic Transmissionmajor

Electrical System (TIPM)major

Brakes & Suspensionmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

4 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.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Dodge Journey, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot vehicles manufactured May 9, 2016, to July 15, 2016. The crankshaft or camshaft sensor may only work intermittently, causing the engine to stall.

What breaks on the 2016 Dodge Journey?

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

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Dodge Journey by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Dodge Journey. Click any year for its full report.

All Dodge Journey years ranked →Dodge Journey years to avoid →Dodge Journey common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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