Is the 2018 Dodge Durango reliable?

Overall reliability is often described as decent to good when maintenance is kept up, but it’s not immune to electrical/infotainment glitches and wear items that can be more frequent on V8 and performance-oriented trims.

What are the most common 2018 Dodge Durango problems?

Commonly reported issues include Uconnect/backup camera glitches, check engine lights tied to sensors or EVAP faults, occasional water leaks leading to moisture in the cabin, and faster brake/tire wear on heavier or higher-power models.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2018 Durango?

Routine maintenance is typical for a midsize SUV, but V8 models can cost more in fuel, tires, and brakes, and repairs can be pricier if electrical modules or infotainment components need replacement.

What are the best years of Dodge Durango to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later third-generation models with updated features and refinement, commonly looking at 2016–2020; the “best” year depends on the trim, maintenance history, and whether any recalls or software updates were completed.

What should I check before buying a used 2018 Dodge Durango?

Confirm service records, scan for stored trouble codes, test the infotainment/backup camera thoroughly, check for signs of water intrusion (damp carpet, musty odors), inspect brakes/tires for uneven wear, and verify towing equipment and transmission operation if it was used for hauling. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim breakdowns, and the correct maintenance schedules for the 2018 Dodge Durango.

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

2018 Dodge Durango Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: B

A powerful and versatile SUV, but expect moderate electrical and suspension maintenance over its lifespan.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2018 Dodge Durango

Has 5 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the power train:automatic transmission.
Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Dodge Durango earns a 82.
The system most likely to surface first: uconnect infotainment system (moderate severity).

Should You Buy the 2018 Dodge Durango?

The 2018 Dodge Durango is a compelling large SUV offering robust performance and practical utility, but it comes with a few persistent electrical and minor mechanical quirks that prevent it from achieving top-tier reliability status. While the powertrains are generally sound, be prepared for potential Uconnect frustrations and routine suspension wear, making diligent pre-purchase inspection and a robust maintenance schedule crucial for long-term satisfaction.

Biggest Strengths

Robust powertrain options (Pentastar V6, HEMI V8)
Strong towing capacity and RWD-based handling
Spacious interior with flexible seating

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2018 Dodge Durango. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Uconnect Infotainment Systemmoderate

Front Suspension Componentsmoderate

Engine Oil Cooler/Filter Housing (3.6L Pentastar)moderate

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

NHTSA Recalls

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

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Dodge Charger, Durango and Challenger, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, Chrysler 300, and RAM 1500 vehicles. An incorrect transmission park lock rod may have been installed in the transmission.

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.

What breaks on the 2018 Dodge Durango?

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

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Dodge Durango by Year

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 →

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