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2018 Dodge Durango Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls
2018 Dodge Durango Report

Overall Score

6.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Electrical system issues, including Uconnect screen malfunctions and power loss, are the most frequent complaints.
  • Exterior lighting problems, specifically water intrusion into the taillight assembly, are a common and concerning defect.
  • Critical braking system issues, including ABS module defects, are highlighted by recalls and complaints, posing a safety risk.
  • The powerful 6.4L V8 engine requires premium fuel and delivers a combined 15 MPG, leading to high fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Dodge Durango

The 2018 Dodge Durango offers robust V8 power and substantial towing capability, but potential buyers should be aware of its documented reliability shortcomings. With 7 recalls and over 300 complaints logged, systemic issues, particularly with the electrical system and exterior lighting, are prevalent. While it earns a respectable 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, these recurring problems can impact long-term ownership satisfaction and potentially lead to unexpected repair costs.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints involve the Uconnect infotainment system freezing, delaminating screens, ghost touches, and reboots. Dashboard display issues and intermittent power loss or stalling are also reported.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls7
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

308
Electrical System81
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
15
MPG
City
13
MPG
Highway
19
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.8/ 10

Practicality

4.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers who prioritize V8 power and towing capacity above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Dodge Durango Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Dodge Durango.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
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: 81 reports

2. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Usage: 52 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 - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 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
7 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Dodge Durango reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Dodge Durango is 6.8/10. Reliability score is 6.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 308.

How practical is the 2018 Dodge Durango for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 15 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Dodge Durango is 6.1/10. Overall score is 6.1/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 4.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 - Inspect Wiper Blades at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Uconnect, Dashboard) (typical at 35,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,500+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

Base MSRP is $46,345.

What engine is in the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 6.4.

What transmission does the 2018 Dodge Durango use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Dodge Durango, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 Durango require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

EPA combined estimate is 15 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

6 standard and 6 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Dodge Durango, seating capacity is 5.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Dodge Durango use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Dodge Durango, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (81 reports, 26.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Dodge Durango?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe and 2018 Ford Explorer.

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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