2012 Dodge Durango Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2012 Dodge Durango and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2012 Dodge Durango engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
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 2012 Dodge Durango engine is stalling?

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.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the steps to diagnose the stalling issue in a 2012 Dodge Durango?

When diagnosing the stalling issue in a 2012 Dodge Durango, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex ones. Start by checking for any recalls related to the fuel pump relay, as this is a common culprit for stalling. If the recall has been addressed, inspect the fuel pump relay itself; listen for the fuel pump's engagement when turning the ignition on, and consider tapping the relay if it doesn't activate. Next, examine the throttle body for any carbon buildup that could impede airflow, as a clean throttle body is crucial for engine performance. Additionally, inspect the vehicle's electrical system for loose or corroded connections, particularly those linked to the fuel pump and ignition systems, since intermittent electrical issues can lead to stalling without triggering diagnostic codes. If these checks do not resolve the issue, consider the Total Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which may require inspection or replacement if it is suspected to be faulty. Finally, if the problem persists, it may be necessary to seek professional diagnostic testing to capture transient faults effectively. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the stalling issue in your Dodge Durango.

What are the common problems that could cause a 2012 Dodge Durango engine to stall?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2012 Dodge Durango, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which manages the vehicle's electrical systems. A failure in the TIPM can lead to significant issues, including engine stalling and loss of power steering. Another frequent issue is the fuel pump relay, which may fail even after a recall repair, so keeping a spare on hand can be a wise precaution. Additionally, alternator problems are not uncommon; repeated failures can cause the engine to shut down unexpectedly. It's also important to inspect the throttle body for carbon buildup, as this can disrupt airflow and lead to stalling. Lastly, check for any frayed or faulty electrical connections, particularly those linked to critical sensors, as these can send incorrect signals to the engine's computer. By being proactive and addressing these potential issues, you can help ensure your Durango runs smoothly and safely.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2012 Dodge Durango?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2012 Dodge Durango is critical due to the immediate safety risks it poses. When the engine stalls unexpectedly, particularly while driving, it can result in a sudden loss of power steering and braking, creating a perilous situation for both the driver and surrounding vehicles. This issue is not only alarming but also occurs frequently, often during crucial moments such as stopping or decelerating, which significantly increases the likelihood of accidents. The disruption in vehicle control can force drivers to stop and restart the engine in hazardous traffic conditions, further compounding the danger. The root cause is often associated with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) and its fuel pump relay, a problem serious enough to have led to recalls. Therefore, it is vital for owners to check if the necessary recall repairs have been completed and to address any outstanding issues promptly. Neglecting these symptoms could result in severe consequences, including accidents and additional vehicle damage, underscoring the importance of prioritizing this repair for the safety of all road users.

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