When it comes to Dodge reliability, the rankings present a mixed picture.
- In J.D. Power’s 2025 Initial Quality Study (IQS), Dodge ranks 7th overall, with owners reporting 180 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100).
- However, Dodge didn’t rank among the top-performing brands in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) of 2025.
- Consumer Reports’ 2026 brand rankings placed Dodge at #28 overall and #20 in used-car reliability, highlighting mixed dependability over extended ownership.
This means that while the Dodge brand performs well in early quality and owner satisfaction studies, long-term dependability scores tend to be less consistent.
Problems impacting Dodge vehicle reliability:
- Electronic gear-shifter faults in older models.
- Premature engine failure in certain models (sometimes under 70,000 miles).
- Cracked or deteriorating dashboards.
- Excessive rust on body panels and undercarriage components.
- Front-end wobble or steering instability.
- Steering and electrical system complaints.
Read on for a deeper look at reliability ratings, average annual maintenance costs, the most reliable vehicle models to consider, and more.
This Article Contains:
- Dodge Reliability Rating Overview
- 7 Common Problem Areas of Dodge Vehicles That Impact Reliability
- What’s the Average Annual Repair Cost of Owning a Dodge?
- Which Dodge Models Are Worth Buying (& What to Avoid)?
- How Does Dodge Compare to Brands like Toyota and Chevy?
- What You Need to Know About Dodge Warranties
Dodge Reliability Rating Overview
Here’s how Dodge performs across major reliability indexes:
1. J.D. Power
- Initial Quality Study (IQS): Dodge ranked 7th overall in 2025 with 180 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), outperforming the industry average of 192 PP100.
- Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS): In the dependability study, which assesses problems reported after three years of ownership, Dodge didn’t rank among the top brands of 2025. Suggesting the brand faces more issues as the vehicle ages.
- Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study: In this J.D. Power study, Dodge scored 868 out of 1,000 points, placing second among mass-market brands for design, performance, comfort, and overall ownership satisfaction.
2. Consumer Reports
In its 2026 overall brand rankings, Consumer Reports ranked Dodge #28 among all car brands, placing it in the lower tier for overall performance and reliability.
Other rankings include:
- #15 among mainstream brands
- #30 in road-test performance
- #20 in used-car reliability
Now that we’ve covered Dodge’s reliability rankings, let’s examine the issues that influence those scores.
7 Common Problem Areas of Dodge Vehicles That Impact Reliability
If you’re considering a Dodge, these are the issues owners most commonly report over time:
- Electronic gear shifter faults: Some older Dodge models (especially pre-2012) had a gear selector issue that could prevent the vehicle from fully engaging “Park,” increasing the risk of rollaway incidents.
- Premature engine failure: In certain Dodge pickups and SUVs, owners have reported engine failure at relatively low mileage, leading to costly repairs, which may require replacing the engine.
- Cracked or fragile dashboards: Early Dodge Ram interiors were known for dashboards that cracked or deteriorated over time, affecting appearance and raising questions about interior durability.
- Rust and corrosion: Older Dodge vehicles have shown rust on body panels and undercarriage components. This is common in regions with harsh weather or that require road salt.
- Front-end suspension and steering issues: Some mid-2000s models developed loose or wobbly front ends, often tied to worn suspension or steering parts.
- Transmission shifting issue: Drivers have reported delayed gear engagement, rough shifts, and electronic transmission control issues across multiple models.
- Engine noise (“Hemi tick”): Some owners have noticed a persistent ticking sound in Hemi V8 engines. This often signals valvetrain wear or oiling-related issues.
Not every Dodge model experiences these issues, but understanding potential repair costs can help you plan ahead and schedule service with confidence.
What’s the Average Annual Repair Cost of Owning a Dodge?
Dodge vehicles cost about $630 per year for regular maintenance and repairs, which is slightly below the industry average of $650 annually.
On average, Dodge owners make 0.2 repair shop visits per year, suggesting that unscheduled repairs are relatively infrequent.
However, there’s a 15% chance that a repair will be severe, which can lead to higher out-of-pocket expenses when major components like the engine or transmission need attention.
But remember, repair costs vary by model and model year, so it’s important to know which Dodge vehicles perform best over time.
Which Dodge Models Are Worth Buying (& What to Avoid)
Based on the most recent available quality and reliability data from the J.D. Power study, here’s a look at some of the most to least reliable Dodge models:
A. Most Reliable Car Models
- Dodge Durango: It’s a reliable vehicle that combines a powerful engine with strong towing capability, along with modern technology and standard safety features. This makes it a practical and well-balanced SUV for everyday use. The 2025 Dodge Durango reliability score stands at 83/100.
- Dodge Charger: This model offers powerful engine options, an eight-speed automatic transmission, modern infotainment, and driver-assist features that support everyday comfort. The 2023 Dodge Charger reliability score is 86/100.
- Dodge Challenger: This model year shares its core platform and many mechanical components with the Charger, benefiting from the same proven engine durability. The 2023 Dodge Challenger reliability score is 85/100.
B. Least Reliable Car Models
- Dodge Dart: In terms of Dodge Dart reliability, the 2013–2016 models report the most issues. Common problems include transmission, brake, and engine issues that can affect long-term reliability and increase the risk of unscheduled repairs.
- Dodge Caliber: The 2007–2012 model years are widely linked to CVT transmission failures and suspension issues. Inconsistent build quality during these years also plays a major role in poor Dodge Caliber reliability, leading to higher repair risks over time.
- Dodge Avenger: When it comes to Dodge Avenger reliability, the 2008, 2012, and 2014 model years received the most owner complaints. Drivers commonly report transmission issues, electrical glitches, and engine stalling. Some owners also mention needing an oil change sooner than expected.
- Dodge Dakota: Overall, Dodge Dakota reliability appears weaker for the 2000, 2002, 2005, and 2006 model years. These trucks see more owner complaints, mainly tied to suspension, drivetrain components, braking systems, and early paint issues.
- Dodge Nitro: The 2007–2011 models raise significant concerns about Dodge Nitro reliability, with reports of random electrical faults, engine stalling, and starting issues. In 2020, the NHTSA recalled some 2007–2011 models due to loose steering-wheel emblems that could detach and become projectiles during airbag deployment.
- Dodge Hornet: Since it’s a newer model, there’s limited long-term data available on Dodge Hornet reliability. Early feedback has been mixed, with common concerns including infotainment glitches, warning light alerts, software bugs, and other electronic issues.
C. Models with Mixed Reliability
- Dodge Grand Caravan: The 2019 model carries a reliability score of 76/100. Overall, Dodge Grand Caravan reliability benefits from its spacious cabin, smooth acceleration, and good forward visibility. That said, cabin noise and dated gauge styling slightly soften its long-term appeal.
- Dodge Journey reliability: The 2018 model scores 72/100. Overall, Dodge Journey reliability aligns with its budget-friendly positioning, though limited cargo space and recurring transmission complaints may affect long-term dependability.
Wondering how Dodge vehicles fare against other popular brands?
Find out next.
How Does Dodge Compare to Brands like Toyota and Chevy?
The table below outlines how the Dodge brand performs against Toyota and Chevrolet across initial quality, long-term dependability, and annual repair costs.
| Brand | IQS ranking | VDS ranking | Annual repair costs and severity |
| Dodge | 7th (180 PP100) | Not among the top brands | $634 with a 15% chance of severe repairs |
| Toyota | 20th (200 PP100) | 3rd (163 PP100) | $441 with a 12% chance of severe repairs |
| Chevrolet | 3rd (178 PP100) | 4th (169 PP100) | $650 with a 15% chance of severe repairs |
Finally, let’s look at the coverage Dodge offers through its factory and extended warranties.
What You Need to Know About Dodge Warranties
Here’s a simple breakdown of the warranty and protection plans Dodge owners get:
- Dodge basic limited warranty: This covers most vehicle components for 3 years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first). The bumper-to-bumper coverage includes electrical systems, interior components, and body hardware. It is transferable to a second owner during the coverage period.
- Powertrain warranty: Covers major mechanical systems, including the engine, drivetrain, and transmission, for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Since these are typically the most expensive parts to repair, this coverage provides important financial protection. It is also transferable within the warranty term.
- Roadside assistance: Offered for 5 years or 60,000 miles (on certain eligible model years). The services include towing, jump-starts, emergency fuel delivery, flat tire assistance, and lockout support.
- Dodge extended warranty (Mopar® Vehicle Protection): Available after the factory warranty expires, this plan covers key system repairs like the engine, transmission, driveline, steering, and anti-lock brakes. Additional benefits may include trip interruption coverage, rental vehicle reimbursement, towing, tire rotations, and key fob replacement.
NOTE: Covered repairs include both parts and labor for eligible components under the selected warranty plan.
Get the Most Out of Your Dodge with AutoNation Mobile Service
Even though reliability can vary by Dodge model and year, timely maintenance and prompt repairs can go a long way in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Staying prepared and addressing issues early helps reduce the risk of bigger, more expensive problems.
If you already own a Dodge vehicle and want dependable, hassle-free service, AutoNation Mobile Service is here to help.
We offer transparent pricing, easy online booking, and back all repairs — whether it’s an oil change, regular maintenance, or tire rotations — with a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty.
Schedule service with us, and we’ll take care of your car in your driveway.