If you’re shopping for a family vehicle on a tight budget, you’ve likely asked, is dodge journey a good car? The Dodge Journey’s value proposition hinges on its spacious interior and low entry price within the three-row crossover segment. This makes it a tempting choice for large families who need room without the high cost of other SUVs.
However, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends entirely on what you prioritize. For some buyers, its strengths will be perfect. For others, its significant weaknesses will be deal-breakers.
This detailed review will walk you through every aspect of the Journey. We’ll cover its pros, cons, reliability, and who it’s best suited for. By the end, you’ll know exactly if this crossover matches your needs.
Is Dodge Journey A Good Car
To determine if the Dodge Journey is a good car, we must break down its key attributes. We’ll compare its performance, features, and value against other vehicles in its class. This comprehensive look provides the clarity you need to make an informed decision.
Key Strengths Of The Dodge Journey
The Journey has several compelling advantages that keep it on shopping lists, even as it aged. These benefits are primarily about practicality and initial cost savings.
Spacious And Flexible Interior
The Journey’s cabin is arguably its best feature. It offers more passenger and cargo space than many newer competitors in its price range.
- Three-Row Seating: The available third row is a major draw. While best for children, it provides occasional seating for extra passengers, a rare find at this price point.
- Smart Storage: Dodge included clever bins and hideaways throughout. The front passenger seat bottom flips up for tall item storage, and there are hidden compartments under the second-row floor.
- Cargo Capacity: With all seats folded, it offers excellent cargo space. Even with the third row up, there’s a usable area for groceries or bags.
Very Low Purchase Price
New Journeys were consistently among the most affordable three-row crossovers on the market. This low entry price made it accessible for families who needed the space but couldn’t afford a Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander.
On the used market, this value becomes even more pronounced. You can often find a Journey with relatively low mileage for thousands less than a comparable competitor. This upfront savings is its biggest attraction.
Strong V6 Engine Option
The base 4-cylinder engine is underpowered. However, the available 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 is a different story. This engine is smooth, responsive, and provides adequate power for highway merging and passing.
It transforms the driving experience from sluggish to competent. If you consider a Journey, the V6 is highly recommended, especially if you plan to carry a full load of passengers or tow.
Significant Weaknesses And Drawbacks
Unfortunately, the Journey’s weaknesses are substantial and contribute to its low ratings from critics. These are the areas where it falls behind nearly every modern rival.
Outdated Design And Technology
The Journey’s platform and interior design dated back to 2009 with only minor updates. By the end of its production in 2020, it felt very old compared to rivals.
- Interior Materials: Extensive use of hard, cheap-looking plastics.
- Infotainment: Even the available Uconnect system felt generations behind. The screen was small, and the software was slow.
- Safety Features: It lacked modern driver aids like automatic emergency braking, which became standard on many competitors.
Poor Fuel Economy
Neither engine is efficient. The 4-cylinder struggles to get good mileage due to the vehicle’s weight. The more powerful V6, while better to drive, has a thirsty appetite for fuel.
You will spend more at the pump compared to newer crossovers with turbocharged engines or hybrid systems. This is a crucial long-term cost factor.
Mediocre Driving Dynamics
The Journey is built for space, not for driving enjoyment. The handling is vague and disconnected. The ride quality can be jittery on rough pavement, and road noise is pronounced at highway speeds.
It functions as basic transportation but offers none of the refined or engaging feel found in some other SUVs.
Reliability And Cost Of Ownership
When asking “is dodge journey a good car,” long-term dependability is a major concern. The Journey’s reliability record is mixed, which impacts its true cost.
Common Dodge Journey Problems
Owners and mechanics report several recurring issues. Being aware of these can help you inspect a used model or budget for repairs.
- Transmission Issues: The 4-speed automatic in older models and the 6-speed in newer ones can exhibit rough shifting, hesitation, and in some cases, premature failure. Regular fluid changes are critical.
- Electrical Gremlins: Problems with power door locks, windows, and the instrument cluster are not uncommon. These can be intermittent and frustrating to diagnose.
- Brake Wear: The Journey tends to go through brake rotors and pads quicker than average. Premature warping or pulsation is a frequent complaint.
- Engine Oil Cooler Leaks: Specifically on the 3.6L V6, the oil cooler housing gasket can fail, leading to oil leaks. This is a known and somewhat expensive repair.
Depreciation And Resale Value
The Journey suffers from extreme depreciation. Its value drops sharply in the first few years. This is bad news if you buy new but creates opportunity in the used market.
For a used buyer, you get a lot of space for very little money. Just understand that when you go to sell it, you won’t get much in return. It’s a vehicle you typically drive until the wheels fall off.
Who Is The Dodge Journey Best For?
The Journey isn’t for everyone, but it fits a specific buyer profile perfectly. Consider it if these points describe your situation.
The Budget-Conscious Large Family
If you need three rows of seating and your budget is your primary constraint, the Journey demands a look. It delivers the core functionality of a family hauler at a deeply discounted price. You sacrifice refinement and modern features for sheer space per dollar.
The Low-Mileage Or Second-Car User
If you drive few miles annually, the poor fuel economy matters less. As a secondary vehicle for trips to the hardware store or occasional family outings, its weaknesses are less impactful. It can serve reliably in a limited role.
The Practical Used Car Shopper
A savvy used car buyer who prioritizes utility and conducts thorough pre-purchase inspections can find a good deal. Focusing on a well-maintained, later-model V6 example can yield a capable people-mover. Just have a repair fund set aside.
Final Verdict: A Compromise Of Value And Compromise
So, is the Dodge Journey a good car? It is a good value proposition for a very specific need, but it is not a objectively good car by modern standards.
It makes major compromises in refinement, technology, safety, and driving dynamics to achieve its low price and spacious interior. For families who value space and upfront cost above all else, it can be the right tool for the job. For most other buyers, the long list of drawbacks and potential reliability concerns will steer them toward more competitive options like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, or even a used minivan.
Your decision comes down to prioritys. If budget and seating capacity are your top two concerns, test drive a V6 Journey with your eyes open to its flaws. If you can spend a bit more for a more rounded, reliable, and efficient vehicle, you will likely be happier with another choice in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dodge Journey a reliable SUV?
The Dodge Journey has a below-average reliability rating. While some owners report trouble-free ownership, common issues include transmission problems, electrical faults, and premature brake wear. Proper maintenance is crucial, and a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended for used models.
What are the main problems with a Dodge Journey?
The most frequent problems involve the automatic transmission (rough shifting), electrical components (power accessories, dashboard), and brake system (rotor warping). The 3.6L V6 engine may also develop oil cooler leaks. These are well-documented issues across model years.
Is the Dodge Journey good on gas?
No, the Dodge Journey has poor fuel economy compared to modern crossovers. The 4-cylinder engine gets disappointing mileage for its power level, and the more capable V6 engine is quite thirsty. Expect combined city/highway figures in the low 20s at best, which is a significant downside for daily driving.
How long will a Dodge Journey last?
With meticulous maintenance and timely repairs, a Dodge Journey can last 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, reaching this mileage often requires addressing its common failure points, like the transmission. Many competitors have a stronger reputation for longevity with fewer major repairs.
Should I buy a used Dodge Journey?
Buying a used Dodge Journey can be a smart financial move if you prioritize space and price above all else. Focus on finding a later-model year (2017-2020) with the V6 engine, a full service history, and get an independent mechanic to inspect it. Be prepared for higher fuel and potential repair costs compared to some rivals.