2012 Dodge Durango Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The electrical system is the most frequent complaint area, with a significant number of owners reporting issues.
- Engine problems, including stalling and failure to start, are a major concern for owners.
- Brake system issues are also prevalent, aligning with recall data for critical components.
- Despite its 4-star overall safety rating, potential buyers must be aware of the high complaint volume and recall history.
2012 Dodge Durango
Critical Failure Risk
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) is a common failure point, leading to a wide array of electrical issues including stalling, no-start conditions, and malfunctioning accessories. This is the most frequent complaint category.
Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$2,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing towing and cargo capacity over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a dependable, trouble-free daily driver.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Dodge Durango Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Dodge Durango.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Midgrade
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- 4-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Minivan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 15
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 336 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 141 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Dodge Durango reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Dodge Durango is 5.3/10. Reliability score is 5.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 13. Owner complaints: 913.
How practical is the 2012 Dodge Durango for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 15 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Dodge Durango?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Dodge Durango is 5.5/10. Overall score is 5.5/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 6.8/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Dodge Durango?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,800. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (TIPM) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).
What engine is in the 2012 Dodge Durango?
Engine specs list 8 • 5.7.
What transmission does the 2012 Dodge Durango use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Dodge Durango, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2012 Durango require Midgrade gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Midgrade.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Dodge Durango?
EPA combined estimate is 15 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Dodge Durango?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2012 Dodge Durango?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Dodge Durango, body style is minivan.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Dodge Durango use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Dodge Durango, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Dodge Durango?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2012 Dodge Durango?
Top complaint category: electrical system (336 reports, 36.8% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Dodge Durango?
This model year has 13 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Dodge Durango?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Toyota Highlander and 2012 Honda Pilot.