2018 Dodge Journey Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2018 Dodge Journey
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the visibility:rearview mirrors/devices.
- Scores 13 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Dodge Journey earns a 68.
- The system most likely to surface first: transmission system (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2018 Dodge Journey?
The 2018 Dodge Journey, despite its affordability and available third-row seating, presents a significant reliability risk for prospective owners. Its aging platform and persistent issues with transmissions, electrical systems, and premature component wear make it a challenging long-term ownership proposition. I strongly advise against purchasing this vehicle unless you are prepared for frequent repairs and a potentially frustrating ownership experience.
The 2018 Dodge Journey's reputation for significant mechanical and electrical issues, especially with its transmission, makes it a high-risk purchase. While its low price and family-friendly interior might be tempting, the potential for expensive and recurring repairs far outweighs any initial savings. I strongly ad…
Best Model Years
None are particularly strong for reliability, but later V6 models (2014+) may have fewer widespread engine issues than earlier 2.4L versions, though transmission remains a concern.
Years to Avoid
All model years of the Dodge Journey should be approached with extreme caution, particularly the 2.4L I4 variants due to their underpowered engine and notoriously weak 4-speed transmission. The 2009-2013 model years are generally considered the worst.
Biggest Strengths
- Affordable purchase price on the used market
- Available V6 engine provides adequate power
- Flexible interior with available third-row seating
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2018 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.
Both the 4-speed and 6-speed automatic transmissions are prone to issues like hard shifts, hesitation, solenoid failures, and eventual premature failure. The 4-speed, in particular, is notoriously unreliable and outdated.
The Uconnect system often freezes, lags, or experiences touch screen malfunctions. Other electrical issues include battery drains, faulty sensors, and power accessory failures (windows, locks).
Owners frequently report premature wear of brake rotors and pads, leading to pulsing or noise. Suspension components like control arm bushings, sway bar links, and struts often fail early, impacting ride quality and handling.
2018 Dodge Journey Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2018 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 known Journey issues, particularly related to premature brake wear, early suspension component noise, and initial Uconnect glitches.
Elevated Risk Zone
This is where more significant issues like transmission hesitation, electrical parasitic drains, and oil filter housing leaks on the V6 engine become increasingly common. Major maintenance is likely needed.
High Failure Potential
Beyond 90,000 miles, the risk of major component failures, especially with the transmission, increases substantially. Rust issues may also become visually apparent. This mileage represents a significant depreciation point.
Critical Risk Zone
Vehicles reaching this mileage without significant prior repairs are rare. Expect multiple systems to be compromised, leading to very high annual repair costs that often exceed the vehicle's value. Major component replacements are almost…
2018 Dodge Journey Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2018 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 (excluding major repairs)
Moderate Repairs
$1,000-2,500 (likely annually for various issues)
How Long Does the 2018 Dodge Journey Last?
Given its inherent weaknesses, I would not recommend purchasing a Journey with over 60,000 miles unless it has a meticulously documented service history showing major component replacements and you're prepared for continued investment.
What 2018 Dodge Journey Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Low used car purchase price, making it accessible for families on a tight budget.
- Spacious interior with flexible cargo and passenger configurations, including a usable third row.
- Optional Uconnect system, when working, offers decent features for its era.
- The 3.6L V6 engine provides respectable power for daily driving.
Common Frustrations
- Frequent and costly transmission problems that severely impact reliability.
- Frustrating Uconnect glitches and general electrical issues.
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the V6, for its class.
- Dated interior design and low-quality materials that show wear quickly.
Who Should Buy the 2018 Dodge Journey?
Best For
- Budget-conscious buyers needing a larger vehicle for occasional third-row use.
- Someone who is mechanically inclined and can perform their own repairs.
- Drivers seeking a very low initial purchase price and willing to accept high future repair costs.
Not Ideal For
- Anyone seeking long-term reliability and low maintenance costs.
- Drivers who rely on their vehicle for daily commuting or long trips.
How the 2018 Dodge Journey Compares to Rivals
The Journey consistently ranks at or near the bottom of its class for reliability and overall quality. Most competitors offer a significantly more dependable and refined ownership experience, even if they come at a higher initial cost.
Comparable To
- Nissan Rogue (CVT issues)
- Fiat 500L
NHTSA Recalls
6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Dodge Journey vehicles. When reverse gear has been selected, the rear camera view may not be fully visible within two seconds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Dodge Journey and RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 vehicles. The backup camera may experience a loss of image display while backing up. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
What breaks on the 2018 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.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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