Dodge Durango / 1998
1998 Dodge Durango problems
Owners have filed 1,553 complaints about the 1998 Dodge Durango with NHTSA. Suspension accounts for 52.8% of them — far more than any other system, ahead of power train at 7.1%.
Complaints1,553
Crashes73
Fires15
Injuries44
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Suspension 52.8% · 820
Power train 7.1% · 111
Steering 6.6% · 103
Service brakes, hydraulic 6.1% · 95
Engine and engine cooling 4.9% · 76
Visibility 3.4% · 53
Seats 2.8% · 43
Electrical system 2.3% · 36
Severity
Of those complaints, 73 describe a crash, 15 describe a fire and 44 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 21 model years of the Dodge Durango in this data, 1998 ranks 3rd by complaint volume — 1999 draws the most.
Filing volume has held steady, 12 in the last three years against 14 in the three before.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 68,730 miles.
In owners' own words
With regard to the potential recall of durangos and dakotas in model years 2000-2003, I would urge you to consider starting the recall in the 1998 model year. I have had to replace my ball joints, and I've read about numerous others that have had to dothe same on the doc (Durango owners club) forum (www.Durangoclub.Com). Fyi - the date of incident is the estimated date of replacement of the ball joints. Suspension · reported at 84,000 miles
Drivers side wheel has a loud squeaking noise due to corrosion of the upper ball joint. Through a inspection this problem was spotted. *Ak upper ball joint grease was non existent and the ball joint assembly appeared to be failing. When the vehicle was taken to the dealer, it was determined all four upper/lower ball joints on the left and right side needed to be replaced for safety reasons. *Ph Suspension · reported at 115,849 miles
While vehicle being inspected upper ball joints fell off. No injuries reported. *Ak brakes were pulsating when vehicle trying to stop. It was found that rotors were out of round. Dealer replaced rotors. Vehicle doesn't start occasionally after being driven for a short time. No faults on test found; therefore, dealer couldn't duplicate problem. In addition, molding on windows, doors, and bumper. Suspension · reported at 80,000 miles
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…