Dodge Journey engine misfires and repeated heater core failures due to sand left in the engine on Dodge Journey

Some Dodge Journey owners report experiencing engine misfires, which can manifest as rough idling, loss of power during acceleration, and a check engine light. These misfires are often attributed to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors, and may also be triggered by cylinder misfires or O2 lean bank issues. Additionally, some owners report heater core failures, leading to problems such as no heat or lower-than-normal heat temperatures when the heater is turned on. These heater core issues can occur due to clogging from sediment in the coolant and may require a labor-intensive replacement process. If the heater core is damaged, it can significantly impact the vehicle's heating capability during colder months. To mitigate these issues, routine maintenance and checks of the engine components and cooling system are recommended.