Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
2001 Dodge Durango Problems
Rerouting Ignition Coil/Spark Plug Wires Can Solve Misfire/Surge Problems
On the 5.9L V8 engine, rerouting the ignition coil wire and spark plug wires can help solve a misfire and/or surge problem that occurs at approximately 45 mph. A service bulletin was published that outlines the specifics of the repair. It states the rerouting procedure should be performed before other repairs are done for misfires, surging or spark knock.
Replace Transmission Cooler Return Filter if it Has "AB" Suffix
If the transmission delays initial gear engagement after being parked overnight or longer, it may be due to a suspect transmission cooler return filter. If the transmission was recently serviced and the part number for the cooler return filter contains an "AB" suffix at the end, a new filter should be installed.
Front/Rear Differential Pinion Seal Leaks Are Common
Front and rear differential pinion seal leaks are common. A leaking pinion seal will require replacement.
Engine oil leaks at distributor may be misdiagnosed
Engine oil leaks at the distributor can be misdiagnosed as leaks from the intake manifold seal, oil pan gasket, or rear crankshaft (rear main) seal. A revised distributor is available if oil is found inside the distributor.
Ticking Type Noise From Exhaust Manifold Area
A ticking type noise may develop, most noticeable when the engine is cold. This is commonly caused by one or more broken exhaust manifold bolts. Our technicians recommend to replace the broken bolts as needed, also the exhaust manifold gaskets should be replaced at this time.
Odor from HVAC vents
Some vehicles may develop a musty odor coming from the HVAC system, Dodge has issued a cleaner/disinfectant and a coating for the evaporator designed to inhibit bacterial growth.
AC Not Cold Due to Leak From Condenser
Poor AC performance or no cold air blowing from vents is commonly caused by a refrigerant leak from the AC condenser. Road debris like rocks or pebbles can damage the condenser tubes.
Various Engine Oil Leaks
External oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, intake manifold gaskets (front or rear), and the rear crankshaft seal area are common. The rear main seal is an unlikely source. Normally, leaks in this area are from the bearing cap mating surfaces as well as the sealing surface between the oil pan and bearing cap.
Increased Oil Consumption Due to Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
On 3.9L V6 and 5.9L V8 engines, the intake manifold gasket may leak and cause increased oil consumption and a spark knock during acceleration; the gasket should be replaced.
Upper Ball Joint Failure
The upper ball joints may fail due to moisture damage. Our technicians tell us 2000-2001 models were recalled for this issue. For more information on this recall, please click here»
Doors May Lock and Unlock Intermittently
If the door locks intermittently lock and unlock without pressing the door lock switch, the door and liftgate lock cylinder switches may need replacement. This may occur more often when driving in damp conditions like the rain or through a car wash.
Cam Sensor Failure Causing no Start or Stalling
On the 4.7L V8 engine, the Camshaft position sensor failure can cause the engine to crank but not start or it can cause intermittent stalling. A new camshaft position sensor will be needed.
Carbon buildup at top of piston may cause noise
One the 5.9L V8 carbon buildup on the top of the piston is common. As the buildup increases with mileage and over time, symptoms may vary from light ticking, to ticking/hammering, to hammering/knocking noises. Fuel injector cleaner often solves the problem.