2017 Dodge Journey Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2017 Dodge Journey
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:wiring.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Dodge Journey earns a 68.
- The system most likely to surface first: transmission (critical severity).
Should You Buy the 2017 Dodge Journey?
The 2017 Dodge Journey is an incredibly budget-friendly way to get a three-row crossover, but it comes with significant long-term reliability compromises, particularly with its transmission and electrical systems. While the V6 models offer a better driving experience, potential owners must budget for frequent and sometimes costly repairs, making this a high-risk proposition for those seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
While the 2017 Dodge Journey might tempt you with its low upfront cost and available third row, its persistent reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and electrical systems, make it a high-risk purchase. The potential for frequent, costly repairs outweighs any initial savings, and I strongly advise l…
Best Model Years
None are truly 'best,' but later V6 models (2014+) are marginally better than earlier 4-cylinder versions, but still problematic.
Years to Avoid
All model years with the 2.4L 4-cylinder and 4-speed automatic, especially 2009-2013 for more widespread complaints.
Biggest Strengths
- Affordable purchase price
- Spacious interior with available third-row seating
- Optional 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine offers decent power
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 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 4-speed automatic paired with the 2.4L engine is notoriously weak, prone to premature failure, rough shifts, and slipping. The 6-speed automatic with the V6 is better but can still exhibit hard shifts and soleniod issues.
Owners frequently report issues with Uconnect freezing or failing, battery drain, various sensor failures (ABS, TPMS, crank position), and intermittent warning lights. These often require diagnostic time and module replacement.
The Journey is highly susceptible to rust, particularly in northern climates. Areas affected include rear wheel wells, rocker panels, subframe components, and door sills, leading to structural integrity concerns over time.
2017 Dodge Journey Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 Dodge Journey most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Warning Zone
At this mileage, you might start seeing the first signs of electrical glitches or infotainment issues. Brake wear will likely necessitate a first pad/rotor replacement.
Moderate Risk Zone
This is where transmission issues (especially 4-cylinder), significant suspension wear, and the beginnings of rust formation often become apparent. Major fluid services are due.
High Risk Zone
Expect potential for major component failures, including engine (oil consumption, lifters) and transmission overhauls. Rust can become widespread and structurally concerning.
Critical Failure Zone
Beyond 120k miles, the Journey demands extensive and potentially very costly repairs. Major powertrain components are at high risk of failure, and chronic electrical issues or severe rust can make it economically unfeasible to repair.
2017 Dodge Journey Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Dodge Journey on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-900
Moderate Repairs
$800-2,500 annually (likely several per year)
How Long Does the 2017 Dodge Journey Last?
Buying a Journey with very low mileage might delay initial major repairs but won't prevent them. High-mileage examples (>90k) are almost guaranteed to require significant investment, often more than their market value.
What 2017 Dodge Journey Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Affordable purchase price makes it accessible for many families.
- Good interior space and configurable seating for families.
- V6 engine provides adequate power for highway driving.
- Available AWD offers confidence in adverse weather.
Common Frustrations
- Frequent and expensive repair bills are a major frustration.
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the V6 and AWD.
- Subpar interior material quality, leading to premature wear.
- Lackluster driving dynamics and a relatively unrefined ride.
Who Should Buy the 2017 Dodge Journey?
Best For
- Budget-constrained buyers needing a large vehicle immediately
- Individuals with strong DIY mechanical skills
- Those who need occasional 3rd-row seating and prioritize upfront cost over long-term reliability
Not Ideal For
- Families seeking a dependable daily driver for long trips
- Anyone who cannot afford unexpected major repair bills
How the 2017 Dodge Journey Compares to Rivals
The Journey's reliability lags significantly behind most of its direct competitors, especially those from Japanese and Korean manufacturers, positioning it near the bottom of the mid-size SUV segment for long-term dependability.
More Reliable Than
- No direct competitors are significantly worse, perhaps only severely neglected used vehicles.
Comparable To
- Older generation Chevrolet Equinox (certain engine variants)
- Chrysler Town & Country (certain model years for electrical)
NHTSA Recalls
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.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Dodge Journey vehicles. The amber side reflex reflector assembled into the headlamp may not reflect brightly enough. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
What breaks on the 2017 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 KeepScores across nearby years of the Dodge Journey. Click any year for its full report.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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