2017 Dodge Durango Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 Dodge Durango: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Dodge Durango has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 2017 Dodge Durango has a check engine light?

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.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

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 initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2017 Dodge Durango?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Dodge Durango, the first step is to check for any visible issues, particularly the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap can often trigger the warning. If everything appears secure, the next step is to utilize a diagnostic scanner, which can be easily connected to the vehicle's OBD-II port. This tool will retrieve specific error codes that indicate the underlying problem. Once you have the error code, take the time to research its meaning, either through the vehicle's manual or online resources, as this will provide insight into the necessary repairs. If the issue seems beyond your expertise or if the error code points to a more complex problem, consulting a mechanic is a wise choice to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. By following these steps, you can effectively start the process of diagnosing the check engine light and potentially save on repair costs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Dodge Durango?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2017 Dodge Durango, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. Understanding the common problems that trigger this warning can help you diagnose and potentially resolve the issue without a trip to the mechanic. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can lead to fuel evaporation and is easily fixed by ensuring the cap is tightened properly. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which affects fuel efficiency and emissions; replacing this sensor can restore optimal performance. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter or mass airflow sensor can also illuminate the check engine light, indicating more complex issues that may require professional assistance. Other potential causes include faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, which can lead to engine misfires, and issues with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve that can impact emissions. A malfunctioning thermostat, vacuum leaks, or even battery and charging system problems can also trigger the light. Lastly, transmission issues, such as low fluid levels, should not be overlooked. By familiarizing yourself with these common problems, you can take the first steps toward troubleshooting and resolving the check engine light issue in your Dodge Durango.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2017 Dodge Durango?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2017 Dodge Durango, it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid escalating issues that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential problems within the engine or emissions system that could range from minor to severe. Ignoring this alert can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and even significant engine damage, which can be costly to repair. Moreover, some underlying issues may pose safety risks, making it imperative to diagnose the problem as soon as possible. Fortunately, modern vehicles are equipped with advanced onboard diagnostics that can help identify the specific issue, allowing you to take informed action. For DIY enthusiasts, this means you can potentially save on diagnostic fees by using an OBD-II scanner to read the trouble codes and understand the necessary repairs. Addressing the check engine light promptly not only helps maintain your Dodge Durango's health but also ensures a safer driving experience for you and your passengers.

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