2019 Dodge Durango Safety Report
2019 Dodge Durango: Strong crash ratings, but persistent lighting, brake, and engine complaints, plus critical recalls with delayed fixes.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Dodge Durango
Reliability Score
The 2019 Dodge Durango receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2019 Dodge Durango
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Dodge Durango:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Lighting Failure (Racetrack Led) Water infiltration into the rear 'racetrack' LED tail light assembly causes electrical shorts and light failure, impacting rear visibility and license plate illumination. |
Medium | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Abs Module Malfunction Malfunction in the antilock-brake system (ABS) module can illuminate brake lights, allow shifting out of Park without applying brakes (rollaway risk), and disable ABS/ESC. Subject of two recalls. |
High | Occasional | N/A (recall related) miles |
| Engine Oil Cooler Failure Oil cooler failure leading to coolant leaks and catastrophic engine damage, often requiring engine replacement. |
High | Occasional | 60000-85000 miles |
| Front Differential Pinion Gear Failure Insufficiently hardened pinion gears in the front differential can cause sudden loss of power or loss of the transmission PARK function. Subject of a recall. |
High | Rare | N/A (recall related) miles |
| Electronic Power Steering Lock-Up Steering wheel locks up while turning, requiring excessive force to free it, reported by multiple owners. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Dodge Durango:
Frequent failures of the rear 'racetrack' LED tail lights and license plate lights due to water intrusion and electrical issues.
Issues with brake pumping, ABS module malfunctions, and recall-related problems leading to disabled ABS/ESC or rollaway risk.
General electrical issues, often related to lighting, starting problems, or warning lights.
Reports of overheating, coolant leaks, oil cooler failures, and misfires leading to significant engine damage.
Complaints about electronic power steering locking up or requiring excessive force to turn.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Dodge Durango
Is the 2019 Dodge Durango safe?
The 2019 Dodge Durango received strong crash test ratings from NHTSA (4-star overall, 5-star side), indicating good crashworthiness. However, it has 131 owner complaints, including 4 crashes and 8 injuries, and is subject to 4 safety recalls addressing critical issues like ABS module malfunctions and front differential failures. Some recall parts have been unavailable, leaving safety defects unaddressed for extended periods.
What are common problems with the 2019 Dodge Durango?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Dodge Durango include exterior lighting failures (28 complaints, often the 'racetrack' LED tail lights due to water), service brake problems (9 complaints, including ABS module issues), and engine issues (5 complaints, such as oil cooler failures and overheating). Electrical system problems (8 complaints) and steering issues (6 complaints) are also frequently cited.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Dodge Durango?
Yes, the 2019 Dodge Durango has 4 recalls. These include two related to the ABS module (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 24V838000 and 22V426000) which can cause rollaway or disable safety systems, one for a rearview camera issue (NHTSA Campaign Number 20V512000), and one for a front differential defect (NHTSA Campaign Number 19V347000) that can lead to a loss of power or PARK function.
How does the 2019 Dodge Durango perform in crash tests?
The 2019 Dodge Durango performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an Overall 4-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for Frontal Crash, an excellent 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance.
What should I know about the 2019 Dodge Durango's brake system?
The 2019 Dodge Durango's brake system has been the subject of significant concern, with 9 complaints for 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' and two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 24V838000 and 22V426000) for a malfunctioning ABS module. This defect can cause brake lights to illuminate incorrectly, allow the vehicle to be shifted out of Park without applying the brake, and disable the ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems, increasing crash risk. Some owners have reported long delays in getting these recall repairs completed due to part unavailability.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While offering good crash protection, the 2019 Dodge Durango has recurring issues with exterior lighting, engine oil cooler failures, and critical brake system recalls, some with delayed fixes. Prospective buyers should ensure all recalls have been addressed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the lighting, engine, and brake systems.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Dodge Durango
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Dodge Durango. The data includes 131 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 8 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Dodge Durango an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.