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2012 Dodge Durango Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·6 Critical Recalls
2012 Dodge Durango Report

Overall Score

5.5/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

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.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Dodge Durango

The 2012 Dodge Durango offers a robust, truck-based platform with available V8 power, making it a compelling option for those needing towing or hauling capability. However, this generation grapples with a notable number of recalls and a high volume of owner complaints, particularly concerning its electrical and engine systems. With 13 recalls and 913 complaints logged, potential buyers must approach this model with caution and a keen eye for potential mechanical and electrical weaknesses. Its 15 MPG combined fuel economy is also a factor for budget-conscious buyers, contributing to high fuel costs.

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.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls13
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

913
Electrical System336
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
15
MPG
City
13
MPG
Highway
20
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

5.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

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.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Midgrade
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Minivan
EPA Combined MPG
15

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 336 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 141 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
13 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

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.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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