What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (1998–2003) Durango?

Durango owners have made 1,410 complaints about the 1998–2003 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 51st out of 54 Dodge generations in overall reliability, with real engine and transmission concerns.

Compare With Other Durango Generations

Common 1998-2003 Dodge Durango Problems

Some of the worst issues 1st generation Durango owners have to deal with.

  1. Stuck in Park

    Can't shift the car into reverse or drive! Now what? This is most commonly reported from Dodge Avenger owners, but there have also been similar complaints about other Dodge makes as well as other Chrysler and Jeep vehicles having a similar …

    Continue reading article "Stuck in Park" Red arrow points at a disassembled gear shifter

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

1st Generation (1998–2003) Durango Key Numbers

  1. 6 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 1,410 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 51st in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 54 eligible generations.