Is the 2017 Dodge Durango reliable?

Overall reliability is often considered average to above average for a performance-leaning midsize SUV, especially with routine maintenance, but infotainment/electrical glitches and brake wear are common pain points.

What are the most common 2017 Dodge Durango problems?

The most reported issues include Uconnect screen or connectivity problems, premature brake pad/rotor wear or vibration, occasional water leaks (seals or sunroof drains), and intermittent HVAC or cooling-system complaints as mileage increases.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2017 Durango?

Costs are typically moderate for the class, but V8 models and the SRT can cost more for fuel, tires, and brakes, and repairs to infotainment or AWD components can raise ownership costs if issues occur.

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

Many buyers prefer later third-generation years with updated tech and refinements; 2014 and newer are popular, and well-maintained 2016–2019 models are often considered strong picks when service history is documented.

What should I check before buying a used 2017 Dodge Durango?

Verify service records, test every infotainment function, check for brake vibration and uneven wear, inspect for damp carpet or water stains, scan for stored trouble codes, and confirm towing/AWD equipment matches what you need. For deeper details, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim breakdowns, and the recommended maintenance schedules for the 2017 Dodge Durango.

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

2017 Dodge Durango Reliability ReportKeepScore 79/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

79/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A powerful, spacious SUV offering great value, but be prepared for potential electrical annoyances and specific powertrain risks.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2017 Dodge Durango

Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Dodge Durango earns a 82.
The system most likely to surface first: infotainment system (moderate severity).
Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:wiring.

2017 Dodge Durango: Buy or Avoid?

The 2017 Dodge Durango is a powerful and practical large SUV, particularly when equipped with the dependable Pentastar V6 engine. However, consistent reports of infotainment glitches and common suspension wear, coupled with the potential for costly V8 engine issues, mean buyers should proceed with careful diligence. It's a capable family hauler, but not without its quirks.

The 2017 Dodge Durango is a solid choice for buyers needing a capable, three-row SUV, especially if opting for the reliable V6 engine. However, potential owners must be vigilant about its common electrical issues and the significant risks associated with the Hemi V8's MDS system. A thorough pre-purchase inspection i…

Best Model Years

2017-2020 (post-facelift, refined powertrains)

Years to Avoid

2011-2013 (early model run, more initial teething issues)

Biggest Strengths

Robust 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine durability
Capable ZF 8-speed automatic transmission
Excellent towing capacity and AWD performance

2017 Dodge Durango — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 Dodge Durango, 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.

Infotainment Systemmoderate~20,000-80,000 mi

The Uconnect 8.4 system can experience freezing, black screens, slow response, or phantom touches. This is a software and hardware issue, often requiring updates or module replacement.

Suspension Componentsmoderate~50,000-100,000 mi

Due to the Durango's weight and robust nature, front control arm bushings, sway bar links, and tie rod ends are prone to premature wear, leading to clunks or loose steering feel.

5.7L Hemi V8 Enginemajor~70,000-150,000 mi

The Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters can fail, leading to significant engine ticking, camshaft wear, and potentially catastrophic engine damage if ignored. Exhaust manifold bolts can also break, causing exhaust leaks.

Full repair-cost ranges, fix-before-you-buy notes, and inspection checklists are in the report.

2017 Dodge Durango Mileage Danger Zones

The mileage windows when the 2017 Dodge Durango most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.

30,000

Low Risk Zone

At this mileage, the Durango is still relatively new. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin/engine air filter replacements. Early Uconnect glitches might surface.

60,000

Maintenance Zone

This mileage marks a significant service interval. Transmission fluid and filter service (for longevity), spark plugs (for V6), and thorough inspection of suspension components are critical to prevent future issues.

90,000

Elevated Risk Zone

Wear items become more prominent here. Suspension components will likely need replacement, and V8 engines may start showing signs of lifter issues. Electrical gremlins can become more frequent.

120,000+

High Risk Zone

Beyond 120,000 miles, the Durango demands comprehensive care. Major component failures become more likely without diligent maintenance, including cooling system parts, powertrain sensors, and potential for transmission issues if neglecte…

2017 Dodge Durango Ownership Cost Outlook

What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Dodge Durango 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

$500-2,000 occasionally for suspension components, Uconnect module, or alternator.

How Long Does the 2017 Dodge Durango Last?

Don't shy away from higher mileage examples (70k-100k+) if they are 3.6L V6 models with meticulous service records. For 5.7L V8 models, prioritize lower mileage and confirm specific maintenance history, especially for oil changes.

What 2017 Dodge Durango Owners Actually Say

What Owners Love

Muscular V8 engine performance and sound (if equipped)
Excellent towing capabilities for its class
Spacious and comfortable third-row seating
Bold, distinctive exterior styling

Common Frustrations

Below-average fuel economy, especially with the V8
Frequent Uconnect system glitches and annoyances
Some cheap interior plastic trim pieces
Ride can be firm on certain trims or wheel sizes

Who Should Buy the 2017 Dodge Durango?

Best For

Families needing three rows and robust towing capability
Drivers who appreciate a powerful engine and confident road presence
Buyers seeking an AWD SUV with some off-road potential

Not Ideal For

Budget-conscious owners prioritizing maximum fuel efficiency
Drivers seeking luxury-level interior refinement and silence

How the 2017 Dodge Durango Compares to Rivals

The Durango stands out with its powerful V8 option, higher towing capacity, and more rugged styling compared to many unibody crossovers. However, it trails some competitors in overall long-term reliability due to its electrical quirks and specific engine concerns.

More Reliable Than

Nissan Pathfinder (CVT reliability concerns)
older generation Ford Explorers (transmission issues)

Comparable To

Chevrolet Traverse
Honda Pilot
Toyota Highlander (though Durango offers better towing/off-road capability)

Safety Recalls on the 2017 Dodge Durango

2 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.

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017 Dodge Durango vehicles. The vehicles may have been assembled with rear axle halfshafts that are too short.

What breaks on the 2017 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.

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

Competing 2017s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2015 JeepGrand Cherokee

72/100

2018 NissanRogue

72/100

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Frequently Asked Questions

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