1998 Dodge Durango Has Rough Idle

Troubleshooting Causes of Rough Idle in Your 1998 Dodge Durango and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1998 Dodge Durango has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1998 Dodge Durango has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Customers with drum brake systems often specify they have lost braking power, or that the vehicle's brakes are making noise. This is because brake drums do not dissipate heat very well, so the heat from hard braking will cause stress fractures. These fractures make can make noise on the brake shoes as the drum revolves around the shoes. Lastly, the brake shoes may not be problematic, but may cause a grinding noise while stopping. This would indicate the shoes have no braking material left, and the brake shoes must be changed before the vehicle can be safely driven.

Learn more about brake shoe symptoms

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the steps to diagnose and fix a rough idle in a 1998 Dodge Durango?

To effectively diagnose and fix a rough idle in a 1998 Dodge Durango, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Start by inspecting for vacuum leaks, as these can significantly impact engine performance. Next, examine the spark plugs for wear or damage, as faulty plugs can lead to misfires and rough idling. Cleaning the Idle Air Control Valve (IAC) is another straightforward task that can enhance idle quality, as dirt buildup can hinder its function. Following this, test the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) to ensure it is accurately measuring air intake, as a malfunctioning MAF can disrupt the air-fuel mixture. Additionally, check the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) to confirm it is operating correctly, as it plays a crucial role in regulating idle speed. Don’t overlook the fuel system; inspect the fuel filter and injectors to ensure they are delivering the right amount of fuel. The EGR valve should also be examined, as a faulty valve can contribute to rough idling. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes can provide insights into specific issues affecting the engine. Finally, if all simpler diagnostics do not resolve the issue, consider adjusting the idle speed as a last resort. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and remedy the rough idle problem in your Dodge Durango.

What are the common problems that could cause a rough idle in a 1998 Dodge Durango?

When diagnosing a rough idle in a 1998 Dodge Durango, it's essential to explore several common problems that could be impacting the engine's performance. One significant issue to consider is dirty or faulty fuel injectors, which can disrupt the fuel-air mixture necessary for smooth operation. Additionally, vacuum leaks can lead to an improper air-fuel ratio, further aggravating the rough idle. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor may also contribute to the problem by affecting the engine's overall efficiency. It's important to check for a clogged air filter, as restricted airflow can negatively influence idle quality. Moreover, worn-out spark plugs or damaged spark plug wires can cause misfires, which are often felt as rough idling. Problems with the mass airflow sensor can similarly disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while a faulty EGR valve may interfere with the combustion process, leading to an unstable idle. By addressing these common issues promptly, you can restore optimal performance and ensure a smoother idle in your Dodge Durango.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in a 1998 Dodge Durango?

Addressing a rough idle in your 1998 Dodge Durango is not just a matter of comfort; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. A rough idle can indicate serious underlying problems, such as fuel delivery issues, ignition system failures, or even engine wear, which, if left unresolved, can escalate into more severe damage and costly repairs. Moreover, neglecting this symptom can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and compromised vehicle performance, making your driving experience less safe and reliable. The urgency to act is heightened by the fact that continued operation under these conditions may not only worsen the existing problems but could also pose safety risks on the road. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and rectify the rough idle promptly to ensure the longevity and safety of your Dodge Durango.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

1998 Dodge Durango Rough Idle: Causes & Repair Costs