Dodge Durango valve seats popping out after installation, thermostat needs adjustment from 195° to 180° on Dodge Durango

Submitted by jorge fernandez · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Dodge Durango owners report experiencing issues with valve seats popping out after installation, which is often attributed to the design of the heads from Chrysler. Many have noted that overheating can exacerbate this problem, highlighting the importance of addressing any cooling system issues promptly. To mitigate the risk, some owners recommend installing a 180-degree thermostat and adjusting the fans accordingly. Additionally, replacing factory valve seats with revised designs from later model engines has been suggested as a preventive measure. Regular maintenance of the cooling system is crucial, and some owners have opted to pull the heads to replace the valve seats or to acquire upgraded used heads from reputable performance shops. Ensuring proper press fits during installation is also critical to prevent valve seats from falling out during heat soaks.

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Dodge Durango vehicles with this problem

1 model year affected
Average mileage: 150,000 miles
(150,000 - 150,000)

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