EngineHigh
3.6 Pentastar rocker-arm / lifter failure causing misfire and tick (earlier cars).
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a tick and scan for cylinder-2/misfire codes.
2011–2023 Dodge Durango · common problems & known faults
The 3rd-gen Durango is a capable three-row SUV; the Pentastar V6 rocker arm and electrical (TIPM) faults are the checks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2011–2023 Dodge Durango are 3.6 Pentastar rocker-arm / lifter failure causing misfire and tick (earlier cars), Oil pooling in the engine valley and dripping down the bell housing, caused by a cracked plastic oil filter housing and cooler assembly and TIPM (integrated power module) faults causing random electrical issues. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Dodge Durango.
4.8/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 5
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
ElectricalMedium
TIPM (integrated power module) faults causing random electrical issues.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test all electrics and watch for no-crank/stalling history.
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Build the inspection planBrakesLow
Brake wear and pulsation.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for pulsation under braking.
TransmissionMedium
Automatic shift quality on higher-mileage cars.
- Typically appears
- 100,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for harsh or slipping shifts.
Engine (5.7L V8 Hemi)Medium
Ticking noise on cold start that fades as the engine warms up, caused by snapped exhaust manifold bolts.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold with the bonnet open. Listen near the front wheel arches for a sharp ticking sound that diminishes after a minute of idling.
Engine (3.6L V6 Pentastar)High
Oil pooling in the engine valley and dripping down the bell housing, caused by a cracked plastic oil filter housing and cooler assembly.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down past the oil filter cap into the V-valley of the engine block to check for pooled fresh oil or coolant.
Body & ElectricalMedium
Sections of the rear 'racetrack' LED light bar failing to illuminate or flickering due to water ingress.
- Typically appears
- 5-8 years
- What to inspect
- Turn on the sidelights and inspect the full width of the tailgate light bar. Look for dead LED patches or visible condensation inside the plastic lens.
Interior ElectronicsMedium
The 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen registers phantom inputs or displays visible bubbling and delamination behind the glass.
- Typically appears
- 4-7 years
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on and inspect the screen edges for air bubbles. Leave the navigation map open for 60 seconds to watch for unprompted 'ghost' screen presses.
Inspecting a Dodge Durango?
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Durango reliable?
Average — early Pentastar rocker-arm and TIPM electrical faults are the main concerns.
Which engine is best?
The 3.6 Pentastar (post-update) is solid; the 5.7 HEMI is strong but thirstier.
What is the TIPM?
The Totally Integrated Power Module controls electrics; failures cause odd gremlins.
Are replacement parts difficult to source in the UK?
As the Durango was never officially sold through UK main dealers, body panels and model-specific trim must often be imported from the US, leading to longer lead times. However, mechanical components are widely available because the engines and drivetrains are shared with the officially imported Jeep Grand Cherokee.
How can I tell if the vehicle has load-levelling rear suspension?
Models equipped with the factory towing package feature Nivomat self-levelling rear shock absorbers. You can identify these by inspecting the rear dampers; they are significantly thicker than standard shocks. Replacements for these units are considerably more expensive than standard dampers, so check them carefully for leaks.
What is the MDS system on the 5.7L V8 models?
The Multi-Displacement System shuts down four of the eight cylinders under light throttle loads to improve fuel economy. When test driving, you may notice a slight change in the exhaust note or a very mild vibration at cruising speeds. This is normal operation, not an engine misfire.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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