2012 Dodge Journey Problems And Complaints

2012 Dodge Journey User Complaints and Problems

Safety Complaints

• Issues with the airbag system: Across the current iteration, buyers of the 2012 Journey have reported numerous issues with the airbag system. While the most common complaint deals with the random illumination of the driver/passenger airbag warning light, some complainants have recorded the airbags failing to deploy in case of a crash. Both situations increase the risk of an injury to the buyer and are potentially hazardous.

Electric System Complaints

• Melted wiring harness: In the 2012 Dodge Journey electrical problems list, buyers of the compact SUVhave reported the wiring harness shorting and melting. As a result, the electrical components including the rear hatch, windows, and windshield wipers are affected, resulting in erratic performances.
• Problems with the infotainment system: Buyers of Dodge’s SUV have also reported the infotainment system of the vehicle failing inadvertently. Randomly, users have recorded the radio and climate control ceasing operation and the Uconnect system becoming unresponsive, which results in loss of control over important functionalities.
• Lack of heating functionality: Among the 2012 Dodge Journey’s common problems, some complainants have also reported the aircon vents blowing cold air only. This happens due to a clogged heater core, which requires replacement to perform its intended function. It results in the windshield fogging constantly and considering that the brand is cognizant of the issue, a recall should be introduced for a quicker remedy.

Mechanical Complaints

• Stalling of engine: For buyers of the current model year, the 2012 Dodge Journey stalling problems have become a recurring concern. In several cases, owners have reported the engine losing its speed, entering into a low power mode, and stalling inadvertently. As a result, the vehicle cannot be moved, which increases the risk of a crash. While a specific cause for the problem has not yet been determined, the failure of the rod bearings, as discussed by the recall referenced by NHTSA ID 11V487000, can be a possible reason for the malfunction.
• Substandard gear shifts: In the current iteration of the SUV, buyers of the 2012 Dodge Journey have also reported problems with the transmission unit. At lower speeds, specifically, when shifting from second to third gear, users have recorded the transmission unit making a clunking noise. This is followed by the vehicle shuddering and hesitating to switch between gears, which results in substandard performance.
• Issues with the braking system: In the Dodge Journey common problems list, buyers of the SUV have reported the inability of the braking system to bring the vehicle to a halt, timely. Despite the pedal being depressed, the Journey requires longer time than usual to come to a stop, which happens primarily because of its warped rotors and brake pads. In some other cases, complainants have also recorded the ABS and traction warning lights illuminating unexpectedly. Where a diagnosis has been conducted, the failure of the ABS module, which requires a replacement, has been attributed as the underlying cause.
• Power steering failure: In a few cases listed online, buyers of the 2012 Journey have also reported the power steering system malfunctioning without any symptoms. Complainants have recorded the steering wheel becoming excessively stiff, which makes it hard to turn. As a result, the vehicle cannot be controlled accurately and can increase the risk of a crash.

2012 Dodge Journey Recalls

S. No	Date	NHTSA ID	Issues Noticed	Additional Remarks	Remedy
1.	7th July 2017	17V432000	Unexpected deployment of the front airbag	Due to a chafed wire inside the steering wheel, the front airbag might deploy unexpectedly.	Upon inspection, dealers will replace the wire, if necessary, and add a protective cover as well.
2.	6th May 2016	16V273000	Ruptured power steering hose	Due to exposure to cold temperatures, the power steering hose may rupture resulting in a loss of the steering assist.	Dealers will replace the power steering hoses, steel tubes, and power steering oil cooler, free of cost.
3.	19th Oct 2015	15V675000	Water seepage in ABS module	The ABS and Electronic Stability Control module may disable due to water entering the wire harness.	Dealers will seal the ABS wiring harness to pre
4.	7th July 2015	15V431000	Detached engine cover	In vehicles equipped with the 2.4L engine option, the engine cover may detach and come in contact with the exhaust manifold.	Dealers will install an improved mounting system for the engine covers.
5.	10th Nov 2011	11V550000	Contaminated brake fluid	Some vehicles may have been assembled with contaminated brake fluids, which might result in the degradation of the sealing components within the braking system.	Dealers will replace all the brake components that come in contact with the hydraulic brake fluid, free of cost.
6.	29th Sept 2011	11V487000	Failure of rod bearing	In vehicles equipped with a 3.6L engine, the failure of rod bearings due to the debris inside the engine block causes the vehicle to stall.	Dealers will replace the engine, free of cost.

Should you buy the 2012 Dodge Journey?

The 2012 Dodge Journey is a blistering example of a utilitarian vehicle. While it lacks frugality, the compact SUV is a delight to drive with its precise handling and potent engine options. It comes with a capacious cabin and has been cleverly designed to seat five passengers while upholding impressive cargo space. So, from a standpoint of practicality, the Journey is a cogent choice. In terms of reliability as well, the verdict is eerily similar. The 2012 Dodge Journey complaints and recalls list is constricted, considering its sales volume of 85,000 units. Even the impact of all its problems is restricted, and in all regards, the ownership experience remains rather hassle-free. Consequently, we do give the vehicle a thumbs up.