2018 Dodge Journey Safety Report
2018 Dodge Journey: Solid crash ratings, but numerous electrical, brake, and backup camera recalls alongside active headrest and power steering complaints.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Dodge Journey
Reliability Score
The 2018 Dodge Journey 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 2018 Dodge Journey
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Dodge Journey:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backup Camera Malfunction Multiple recalls and numerous complaints detail issues with the rearview camera, including loss of image, delayed display, distorted or upside-down images, and complete failure, increasing crash risk while backing up. |
High | Common | all miles |
| Electrical System Failures Two recalls and a high number of complaints (22 for 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM') point to issues like vehicle stalls, unintended acceleration due to cruise control malfunction, and general electrical glitches affecting various components. |
High | Common | all miles |
| Active Headrest Deployment Several complaints describe the active headrest deploying unexpectedly and forcefully, even when the vehicle is unoccupied, causing injury to occupants. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Brake System Issues A recall for rear brake caliper pistons and complaints about grinding sounds and reduced braking performance indicate potential issues with the service brakes. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Exterior Lighting Dimness A recall indicates that amber side reflex reflectors may not reflect brightly enough, reducing vehicle visibility and increasing crash risk. |
Medium | Occasional | all miles |
| Power Steering Leaks Complaints mention power steering fluid leaks, particularly in cold weather, which could lead to loss of power steering assistance. |
Medium | Occasional | all miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Dodge Journey:
Frequent reports of electrical malfunctions, including vehicle stalls, cruise control issues, and general system failures, leading to two recalls.
A significant number of complaints fall into this category, indicating various unspecified or general issues.
Issues with dim reflectors and general lighting problems, leading to a recall for insufficient reflection.
Complaints primarily relate to unexpected deployment of active headrests, causing injury.
Reports of grinding noises and reduced braking performance, supported by a recall for brake caliper pistons.
Complaints include issues like rough running, stalling, and catalytic converter problems.
Reports of transmission noise and potential failures.
Frequent issues with the backup camera, including loss of image, distortion, and delayed display, leading to multiple recalls.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Dodge Journey
Is the 2018 Dodge Journey safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Dodge Journey received a 4-star overall safety rating, with good crash test performance (5 stars for side impact). However, it has 214 total complaints, 7 crashes, and 7 injuries reported to NHTSA, along with 6 recalls addressing critical safety components like the electrical system, brakes, and backup camera. While crash protection is decent, the high number of complaints and recalls for specific safety-related components suggest potential reliability and safety concerns.
What are common problems with the 2018 Dodge Journey?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Dodge Journey, according to NHTSA complaints, are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (22 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (21 complaints), EXTERIOR LIGHTING (13 complaints), SEATS (12 complaints, often concerning active headrest deployment), and SERVICE BRAKES (11 complaints). The backup camera is also a very common problem, leading to multiple recalls and numerous complaints about image loss or distortion.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Dodge Journey?
Yes, the 2018 Dodge Journey has 6 recalls. These include recalls for EXTERIOR LIGHTING (dim reflectors), two separate recalls for ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING (potential vehicle stall, unintended acceleration), SERVICE BRAKES (rear brake caliper pistons), and two separate recalls for BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA (loss or delay of backup camera image).
How does the 2018 Dodge Journey perform in crash tests?
The 2018 Dodge Journey received a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for frontal crash protection, an excellent 5 stars for side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Are there issues with the backup camera on the 2018 Dodge Journey?
Yes, there are significant and common issues with the backup camera on the 2018 Dodge Journey. NHTSA has issued multiple recalls for 'BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA' due to loss of image display, delayed display, and distorted or upside-down images. This is also a frequently reported consumer complaint.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the numerous recalls and high volume of complaints, particularly concerning electrical systems, brakes, and the backup camera, potential buyers should ensure all recalls have been addressed and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these known problem areas.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Dodge Journey
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Dodge Journey. The data includes 214 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Dodge Journey 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.