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Dodge · Known Issues

2021 Dodge Durango Problems: 6 Known Issues

2021 model year · 4,880+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,880+ owner reports, the 2021 Dodge Durango has 6 documented known issues. None of the listed issues is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. The most commonly reported issue is HEMI MDS Lifter Tick with 1,400 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Durango Electrical2
  • Durango Transmission1
  • Durango Cooling1
  • Durango Engine1
  • Durango Suspension1
  • Recalls15
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical2
  • Transmission1
  • Cooling1
  • Engine1
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls15
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS2023202220212020201920182017201620152014201320122011200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998
Community reported
720 owners

On the 2011-2021 Dodge Durango, the A/C system can develop issues including compressor failure, blend door actuator problems, and dual zone climate control malfunctions. Rear A/C systems add complexity.

Common Symptoms

  • A/C blows warm
  • Clicking from dash
  • Different temps from different vents
  • Rear A/C not working
  • A/C intermittent

How to Fix

Diagnose specific component failure. Replace blend door actuators if clicking heard. A/C compressor replacement if refrigerant system failed. Check for proper refrigerant charge.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mopar 68079488AB front HVAC door actuator

    Replace a clicking or nonmoving actuator after commanding and observing the affected door Fitment: 2011-2013 Durango front actuator; HVAC case position must be confirmed Live OEM direct product page when checked

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Mopar 68224186AA A/C-heater door actuator

    Later-model actuator replacement after exact position diagnosis Fitment: Use only where the VIN/HVAC diagram identifies 68224186AA; not a universal 2014-2021 actuator Live OEM direct product page when checked

    Mopar Parts Giant

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 720 owner reports

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified720 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2023Reviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
680 owners

On the 2014-2021 Dodge Durango, the Uconnect infotainment system can experience freezing, random reboots, and connectivity problems. Bluetooth pairing issues and touchscreen responsiveness problems are common.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Giulia, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Charger

Common Symptoms

  • Touchscreen freezes
  • Random reboots
  • Bluetooth won't connect
  • Backup camera intermittent
  • Radio changing stations

How to Fix

Update Uconnect software to latest version. Perform soft reset (hold power and tune buttons). Factory reset may help persistent issues. Radio module replacement may be needed.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,000

Research This Issue

Based on 680 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence680 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
780 owners

On the 2014-2023 Dodge Durango, the ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic can experience harsh shifts, hesitation, or clunking, particularly when cold or during low-speed maneuvers. While generally reliable, some owners report shift quality concerns.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Cirrus

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh or jerky shifts
  • Clunk when shifting from Park
  • Hesitation during acceleration
  • Rough low-speed operation
  • Delayed engagement

How to Fix

Update transmission software to latest calibration. Transmission fluid change with ZF-approved ATF may improve shift quality. Adaptive learning reset may help. If severe, valve body inspection may be needed.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $2,500

Research This Issue

Based on 780 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence780 owner reportsLast reported by owners May 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
720 owners

On the 2011-2021 Dodge Durango 3.6L Pentastar V6, the water pump on the 3.6L Pentastar V6 can fail, causing coolant leaks and overheating. The pump is internal and driven by the timing chain, making replacement labor-intensive. Typically fails between 80,000-120,000 miles.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Giulia, Chrysler 200, Chrysler Pacifica

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant leak
  • Overheating engine
  • Low coolant warning
  • Sweet coolant smell
  • White residue near pump area

How to Fix

Replace water pump when symptoms appear or preventatively during timing chain service. Replace thermostat at same time. Consider timing chain inspection if high mileage.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mopar 68667064AA Pentastar water-pump assembly

    Replace a leaking or noisy 3.6L water pump after diagnosis Fitment: Current supersession for applicable 2011-2021 Durango 3.6L branches; verify VIN because retailer fitment tables expose subsets $230.40 on a live US OEM direct product pa…

  • Mopar 05184651AH thermostat with housing

    Thermostat replacement branch during the verified early water-pump repair Fitment: 2011-2015 Durango 3.6L only; later years require a different verified supersession Live direct US product page when checked

    am-autoparts

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $1,800

Research This Issue

Based on 720 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified720 owner reportsLast reported by owners Apr 2023Reviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
1,400 owners

On the 2011-2023 Dodge Durango, hEMI engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can develop a ticking noise from the MDS lifters. This is most noticeable at idle and during light acceleration. While often not immediately harmful, it can indicate lifter wear.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler Cirrus

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking noise at idle
  • Tick that follows engine RPM
  • Noise louder when warm
  • Tick comes and goes
  • Sound from top of engine

How to Fix

Use quality synthetic oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395 spec. MDS delete kit available for permanent solution. Some owners have had lifters replaced under extended warranty. Regular oil changes help minimize tick.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mopar 53022263AF 5.7L HEMI MDS/VVT camshaft

    Replace only when inspection shows lifter-related lobe damage Fitment: Verified 5.7L branch; not the 6.4L camshaft Live OEM direct product page when checked

    Mopar Parts Giant

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $3,000

Research This Issue

Based on 1,400 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified1,400 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2023Reviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
580 owners

On the 2011-2023 Dodge Durango, the front lower control arm bushings can wear prematurely, causing clunking noises, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear. The Durango's weight accelerates bushing wear.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo 4C, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler Fifth Avenue

Common Symptoms

  • Clunking noise from front suspension
  • Wandering on highway
  • Uneven tire wear
  • Noise over bumps or braking
  • Steering wheel off-center

How to Fix

Replace front lower control arms or bushings. Alignment required after control arm work. Consider upgraded polyurethane bushings for improved durability. Inspect other suspension components.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mopar 5168158AB right front lower control-arm assembly

    Replace the complete arm when bushings or the integrated joint are worn Fitment: 2011-2015 Durango right side; confirm VIN/suspension package Live Mopar direct product page when checked

  • Mopar 5168159AB left front lower control-arm assembly

    Matching left-side complete-arm replacement Fitment: 2011-2015 Durango left side; confirm VIN/suspension package Live OEM direct product page when checked

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Mopar 68282728AD right front lower control-arm assembly

    Later-generation right-side complete-arm replacement Fitment: Later Durango applications including 2023 catalog; VIN and suspension package required Live Mopar direct product page when checked

  • Mopar 68282729AD left front lower control-arm assembly

    Matching later-generation left-side complete-arm replacement Fitment: Later Durango applications; VIN and suspension package required Live Mopar direct product page when checked

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $900

Research This Issue

Based on 580 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified580 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2023Reviewed Aug 2026
NHTSA Recalls15 recalls

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Dodge Durango Pursuit vehicles equipped with an instrument panel mounted shifter. The shifter may experience an interference with the shifter boot and come out of gear while driving, which can result in a sudden loss of drive power.

Campaign #23V64000018/09/2023

STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Dodge Durango vehicles. The rear spoiler may not be aligned properly with the roof, possibly resulting in damage to the spoiler during liftgate use.

Campaign #26V52800013/08/2026

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ram 2500 and 2021-2022 Dodge Durango vehicles, and 2019-2022 3500 cab chassis with GVWR less than 10,000 lbs. The ABS control module software may prevent the electronic stability control (ESC) malfunction indicator light from illuminating during certain conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Dodge Durango problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,880+ owner reports, the 2021 Dodge Durango has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 8-Speed (ZF 8HP) Transmission Issues, A/C Compressor/Dual Zone Climate Issues, Water Pump Failure (Pentastar V6). None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Dodge Durango reliable?

The 2021 Dodge Durango has 6 known issues documented across 4,880+ owner reports. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Durango problems?

Repair costs for known Dodge Durango issues range from $0 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2014-2023 Dodge Durango 8-Speed (ZF 8HP) Transmission Issues?

The ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic can experience harsh shifts, hesitation, or clunking, particularly when cold or during low-speed maneuvers. While generally reliable, some owners report shift quality concerns. Repairs typically run $150-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2011-2021 Dodge Durango A/C Compressor/Dual Zone Climate Issues?

The A/C system can develop issues including compressor failure, blend door actuator problems, and dual zone climate control malfunctions. Rear A/C systems add complexity. Repairs typically run $200-$1,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2011-2021 Dodge Durango Water Pump Failure (Pentastar V6)?

The water pump on the 3.6L Pentastar V6 can fail, causing coolant leaks and overheating. The pump is internal and driven by the timing chain, making replacement labor-intensive. Typically fails between 80,000-120,000 miles. Repairs typically run $800-$1,800. Severity: medium.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 4,880+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #22V14000010/03/2022

STEERING:RACK AND PINION

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango and 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The steering gear rack bar may have been insufficiently hardened during manufacturing, possibly allowing it to bind within the steering rack, and resulting in difficulty steering or a loss of steering control.

Campaign #22V15400014/03/2022

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:COLUMN SHIFT ASSEMBLY

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Charger and Durango vehicles. The shifter assembly was not properly heat-treated, which can prevent the shifter from properly engaging in the "drive" position.

Campaign #22V86600023/11/2022

+ 10 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2011-2023 Dodge Durango HEMI MDS Lifter Tick?

HEMI engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can develop a ticking noise from the MDS lifters. This is most noticeable at idle and during light acceleration. While often not immediately harmful, it can indicate lifter wear. Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: low.

What is the 2014-2021 Dodge Durango Uconnect Infotainment Issues?

The Uconnect infotainment system can experience freezing, random reboots, and connectivity problems. Bluetooth pairing issues and touchscreen responsiveness problems are common. Repairs typically run $0-$1,000. Severity: low.

What is the 2011-2023 Dodge Durango Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Wear?

The front lower control arm bushings can wear prematurely, causing clunking noises, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear. The Durango's weight accelerates bushing wear. Repairs typically run $300-$900. Severity: low.