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2020 Dodge Durango Owner Complaints

Updated May 30, 20262 Critical Recalls
Ethan Miller
2020 Dodge Durango Owner Complaints

Complaint Summary

The 2020 Dodge Durango has 59 reported complaints.

  • Top issues involve exterior lighting and electrical system.

Reliability Score

Reliability Score

7.6/ 10

Based on 59 complaints

Most Frequent Issues

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

15 25.4%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

6 10.2%

ENGINE

6 10.2%

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

5 8.5%

STEERING

3 5.1%

Quick Insights

  • The top category is EXTERIOR LIGHTING, accounting for 25.4% of all complaints.

  • Owners have reported issues across 17 distinct vehicle systems.

  • Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.

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Complaint Summary

What owners keep reporting on the 2020 Dodge Durango

The 2020 Dodge Durango has 59 owner complaints in this dataset. EXTERIOR LIGHTING is the most common complaint category, representing about 25% of the reports shown here.

Most common complaint categories

The top complaint groups for the 2020 Dodge Durango are EXTERIOR LIGHTING (15), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6), ENGINE (6).

Are these complaints a serious red flag?

Potentially. 23 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.

What should buyers inspect on a used 2020 Dodge Durango?

Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.

Read the full buyer guideRecall report and remedy notesMaintenance costs and intervals2019 Durango complaints2021 Durango complaints2018 Durango complaints

Detailed Complaint Log

Showing 17 of 17 systems

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

15 Reports25% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Water intrusion into the rear tail lights.

5/17/2021

There is a very sharp side on the back rear taillight that connects with the lift gate. This razor sharp edge has cut myself, husband, and almost my son. The only thing that saved him from getting cut was the sleeve on his shirt. I have reported this issue to Chrysler. An investigation is in process. The man came out to take pictures he also agreed this was a safety issue. Both my husband and I have been left with permanent scars.

7/14/2021

13 more complaints are available in this category.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

6 Reports10% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Dodge Durango. The contact stated that he auto-started the vehicle while it was in the driveway. The contact stated as he came outside, the vehicle was on fire. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with the assistance of the fire department. There were no injuries sustained. A police report was filed. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was totaled. The approximate failure mileage was 11,200.

11/5/2021

The start stop system is the Durango is terrible! That was my first problem. My second issue is, out of nowhere. We now have inner engine issues. The engine will not hold compression, but there are no leaks! I have only had a vehicle for six months! Now I am paying on a vehicle. I cannot drive and cannot afford fix!

4/4/2023

4 more complaints are available in this category.

ENGINE

6 Reports10% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The start stop system is the Durango is terrible! That was my first problem. My second issue is, out of nowhere. We now have inner engine issues. The engine will not hold compression, but there are no leaks! I have only had a vehicle for six months! Now I am paying on a vehicle. I cannot drive and cannot afford fix!

4/4/2023

Leaking transmission oil cooler, due to clamp installation by factory. Known issue which dodge created service bulletin for but does not correct sending bill to consumer, for manufacturer defect

3/6/2024

4 more complaints are available in this category.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

5 Reports8% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I WAS REFUSED MY RECALL BEING FIX BECAUSE I HAD NY PLATES SAYING DUE TO THE VIRUS. I FEEL DISCRIMINATED AGAINST. THIS IS THE SAME AS CALLING A BLACK PERSON THE N WORD. REEDMAN TOLL DODGE SERVICE DEPT IN LANGHORNE, PA. HER NAME IS [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

5/1/2020

The rear tail lights have a sharp edge that is beak shaped and if you brush up against it on accident it slices into your skin or clothes. I was loading groceries and my arm skimmed over it and sliced a whole piece of skin off. I have researched the incident to see if others have had the same experience looking for a recall or solution after it happened to me and my husband multiple times most recently myself a big cut and I see forums with other people sharing same story.

9/1/2021

3 more complaints are available in this category.

STEERING

3 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

WHILE DRIVING A BRAND NEW (170 MILES) VEHICLE AT 35 MPH ON A BUSY CITY STREET THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING SUDDENLY STOPPED WORKING. A MESSAGE "POWER STEERING UNAVAILABLE" POPPED UP AND THE CAR WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO SAID IT MAY HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY A GLITCH IN THE COMPUTER. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION BECAUSE WITHOUT THE ELECTRIC BOOST IT'S VERY HARD TO STEER THE CAR. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED IN A TURN OR WITH A DRIVER THAT WASN'T STRONG THERE WOULD LIKELY BE AN ACCIDENT. THERE ALSO DIDN'T SEEM TO BE A CLEAR EXPLANATION OF WHAT CAUSED THE ELECTRIC STEERING RACK TO FAIL IN SUCH A NEW VEHICLE.

9/26/2020

The contact owns a 2020 Dodge Durango. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the steering wheel locked, and the contact depressed the brake pedal but was unable to turn the steering wheel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the power steering rack pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V154000 (STEERING). The failure mileage was 48,000.

12/20/2024

1 more complaint is available in this category.

STRUCTURE:BODY

3 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The rear tail lights have a sharp edge that is beak shaped and if you brush up against it on accident it slices into your skin or clothes. I was loading groceries and my arm skimmed over it and sliced a whole piece of skin off. I have researched the incident to see if others have had the same experience looking for a recall or solution after it happened to me and my husband multiple times most recently myself a big cut and I see forums with other people sharing same story.

9/1/2021

Rear lift gate opens while driving and will not latch or stay closed. This has happened three times. The second time $10,000 in I-pads for work fell out on the road. Taken to dealership and repaired twice and now it has been sitting at dealership for 3 weeks for the third repair. The last time it happened my grandson had to sit in the cargo area to hold it down due to snow while daughter drove across town to dealership. This is an ongoing issue and many complaints about this online.

11/22/2022

1 more complaint is available in this category.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

3 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 DODGE DURANGO. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 mph with the cruise control on but not engaged. The contact stated they attempting to accelerate the vehicle however the vehicle had a delayed response. As they passed the vehicle they felt the engine shift underneath their feet. The contact stated that when they removed their pressure off the accelerator pedal they felt the vehicle accelerator activate on its own accord. The vehicle felt as though it activated the cruise control as if it was driving on its own causing the contact to attempt to apply the brakes however the vehicle failed to stop. The contact floored the brakes however they failed. The contact had to avoid other traffic. The contact stated that during this time they often came within the 3 feet parameter for the Collision Warning to activate however it failed to do so each time it should have. They put their foot on the accelerator where a warning light that stated service regarding speed warning light. The contact lifted the accelerator backwards with their foot to release some of the pressure and pressed the brake at the same time for the vehicle to eventually relieve its own control where the contact was able to control the vehicle. The contact stated that it wasn't till about three minutes later they were able to pull over and come to a stop. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer who were unable to locate the service history. The vehicle had not been diagnosed and or repaired. The contact spoke with the manufacturer and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 26,7500.

11/18/2021

The UConnect system in the 2020 Dodge Durango SRT has been compromised. the vehicle has experienced major safety concerns and life threatening issues for the driver. All components from body telemetry to speed control breaking fuel consumption electrical the brain itself the GPS the tracking equipment and software. Somebody a(hacker or Toyota) is remotely hacked and controlling the system just like the voluntarily recall of Jeep. However the UConnect system is a Toyota product or I was lead to believe. The Uconnect system has failed. It has been hacked. The malware has affected every component of the the Dodge Durango. The vehicle needs to be recalled and bought back. Taken off the road. The defective software makes the vehicle a death trap and a malware networking hub. I fear for my life and the safety of my life because of this vehicle. This has been a daily occurrence since 06/14/2022, When I purchased the vehicle.

1/14/2023

1 more complaint is available in this category.

SERVICE BRAKES

3 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 DODGE DURANGO. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 mph with the cruise control on but not engaged. The contact stated they attempting to accelerate the vehicle however the vehicle had a delayed response. As they passed the vehicle they felt the engine shift underneath their feet. The contact stated that when they removed their pressure off the accelerator pedal they felt the vehicle accelerator activate on its own accord. The vehicle felt as though it activated the cruise control as if it was driving on its own causing the contact to attempt to apply the brakes however the vehicle failed to stop. The contact floored the brakes however they failed. The contact had to avoid other traffic. The contact stated that during this time they often came within the 3 feet parameter for the Collision Warning to activate however it failed to do so each time it should have. They put their foot on the accelerator where a warning light that stated service regarding speed warning light. The contact lifted the accelerator backwards with their foot to release some of the pressure and pressed the brake at the same time for the vehicle to eventually relieve its own control where the contact was able to control the vehicle. The contact stated that it wasn't till about three minutes later they were able to pull over and come to a stop. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer who were unable to locate the service history. The vehicle had not been diagnosed and or repaired. The contact spoke with the manufacturer and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 26,7500.

11/18/2021

During driving the catalytic converter rubbed through both rear brake lines and was rubbing on fuel line as well. 100% stock vehicle with no modifications and has never been in an accident. Checked similar vehicles at local dealership and they seem to have the same issue with brake lines rubbing against exhaust

2/21/2025

1 more complaint is available in this category.

POWER TRAIN

3 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Dodge Durango. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the "Service Shifter" message displayed on the instrument panel. The contact then stated that while driving at 65 MPH, several messages appeared on the instrument panel and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact used excessive force to steer the vehicle off to the shoulder of the highway. The contact also stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a defective shifter control module. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was 29,980.

4/18/2023

Transfer case failure. Several other owners online are reporting the same issue. Why has a recall not been issued for a flawed part, that makes the vehicle u drivable and could grenade while driving.

10/4/2024

1 more complaint is available in this category.

WHEELS

2 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The UConnect system in the 2020 Dodge Durango SRT has been compromised. the vehicle has experienced major safety concerns and life threatening issues for the driver. All components from body telemetry to speed control breaking fuel consumption electrical the brain itself the GPS the tracking equipment and software. Somebody a(hacker or Toyota) is remotely hacked and controlling the system just like the voluntarily recall of Jeep. However the UConnect system is a Toyota product or I was lead to believe. The Uconnect system has failed. It has been hacked. The malware has affected every component of the the Dodge Durango. The vehicle needs to be recalled and bought back. Taken off the road. The defective software makes the vehicle a death trap and a malware networking hub. I fear for my life and the safety of my life because of this vehicle. This has been a daily occurrence since 06/14/2022, When I purchased the vehicle.

1/14/2023

My rear wheel on the driver side of the vehicle would not allow me to go or roll like the other three tires so I had to come off the road and head to the nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care to try to get help for my vehichle, due to having a warranty on my tires until 2028. My safety and the safety of others was put at high risk, as I could not control the swaying movement of the vehicle and assumed I must have popped a tire or something was caught underneath my car and was preventing me from driving properly with womping and knocking sounds. After confirmation of the problem, by Firestone I was informed that what occured should not have happened and is a manufacturer problem and was noted on the bill I had to pay a week later to drive my vehicle. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to it happening. My oil was changed and tires were rotated as part of regular maintenance at the dodge dealership were I reside on or around September 2024 and they did not inform me of any issues. I work minutes from my home and only drive a few miles each day. About 2 years ago I purchased this vehicle at 62,000 and have only accumulated 16,000 miles and currently sit at 78,000. I am asking for this request to be reviewed, and the cost be reimbursed and my vehicle to be scheduled for inspection for consumer safety and peice of mind.

4/2/2025

SEAT BELTS

2 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

My driver side seat belt doesn't roll back up after it is taken off. I have to manually force the belt to go up. This happened to my wife's Jeep Grand Cherokee and there was a recall on hers. This seems to be the same issue. I am afraid that the seat belt will eventually malfunction.

1/14/2024

Drivers seatbelt buckle does not register, resulting in active chiming of the unbuckled seat belt alarm and disengaging of the airbag system. Driver must hold the seatbelt with downward pressure continuously in order to register the seat belt and return the vehicle to normal operating condition, and turn off the airbag system warning signs and chiming. Dealership refuses any assistance without payment despite being a vehicle safety system.

6/19/2024

AIR BAGS

2 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

Drivers seatbelt buckle does not register, resulting in active chiming of the unbuckled seat belt alarm and disengaging of the airbag system. Driver must hold the seatbelt with downward pressure continuously in order to register the seat belt and return the vehicle to normal operating condition, and turn off the airbag system warning signs and chiming. Dealership refuses any assistance without payment despite being a vehicle safety system.

6/19/2024

I was driving and the passenger active headrest exploded randomly without any impacts happening

5/10/2025

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

While driving the engine began to vibrate violently and the check engine light turned on. Luckily I was close to the dealership because I live in a small town with one major road. I was able to quickly slow down without crashing or causing an accident and slowly drove to dealership. If I was at any significant speed I could have crashed injuring myself and my two small children.

9/7/2024

Vehicle has begun (and is getting worse) to crank with no start on first attempt. I know there was a recall on earlier model for the fuel pump relay.

11/17/2025

STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

1 Report2% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

There is a very sharp side on the back rear taillight that connects with the lift gate. This razor sharp edge has cut myself, husband, and almost my son. The only thing that saved him from getting cut was the sleeve on his shirt. I have reported this issue to Chrysler. An investigation is in process. The man came out to take pictures he also agreed this was a safety issue. Both my husband and I have been left with permanent scars.

7/14/2021

SUSPENSION

1 Report2% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The UConnect system in the 2020 Dodge Durango SRT has been compromised. the vehicle has experienced major safety concerns and life threatening issues for the driver. All components from body telemetry to speed control breaking fuel consumption electrical the brain itself the GPS the tracking equipment and software. Somebody a(hacker or Toyota) is remotely hacked and controlling the system just like the voluntarily recall of Jeep. However the UConnect system is a Toyota product or I was lead to believe. The Uconnect system has failed. It has been hacked. The malware has affected every component of the the Dodge Durango. The vehicle needs to be recalled and bought back. Taken off the road. The defective software makes the vehicle a death trap and a malware networking hub. I fear for my life and the safety of my life because of this vehicle. This has been a daily occurrence since 06/14/2022, When I purchased the vehicle.

1/14/2023

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS

1 Report2% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Rear taillamp goes out and is a safety issue , it is a known issue, there is a similar problem with years 2021 and above and a recall was issued , water gets in the light and causes problems , it also causes the license plate light to go out in which a cop can stop you and issue you a ticket , the light has failed in all sorts of ways that can be a safety issue in the day or night , it's all over the forums and general internet, my light has water and is starting to fail as well as the license plate light , I asked a police officer and was told if stopped they may issue me a ticket , im disabled with issues in my arm and can no longer be able to be handy with tools , seeing this is a widespread issue and a recall has been issued for other years why has this 2020 and previous years have been overlooked , it is a Hazzard if you cannot see rear taillights and if your vehicles plates cannot be seen by traffic cameras for bridges, tolls or street cams for various reasons that can include security issues as well as safety.

5/17/2024

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER

1 Report2% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Dodge Durango. The contact stated that moments after starting the vehicle and while driving approximately 55 MPH, the contact suddenly felt a sharp burning pain in the buttocks area. The contact immediately stopped the vehicle and discovered a burn hole in the clothing and a skin burn to the buttocks. While inspecting the vehicle, a burn hole was discovered in the front driver's seat cushion. During the incident, the contact indicated that the seat heat was in the on position and no flames or burning odor were present inside the vehicle. The vehicle was later driven to the local dealer, who indicated an electrical fire had occurred inside the front driver's seat and the entire seat needed to be replaced. The cause of the electrical fire was not determined, and the vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed that an engineer would inspect the vehicle, but no inspection occurred, and no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 130,000.

11/18/2025

About This Data

Data and Methodology

MethodologyHow we score →

Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.

FAQ

What are the most common owner complaints for the 2020 Dodge Durango?

The most reported complaint category for the 2020 Dodge Durango is EXTERIOR LIGHTING, with 15 owner reports. That is about 25% of all complaints logged here. Other recurring themes include EXTERIOR LIGHTING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE.

Are complaints about the 2020 Dodge Durango a serious warning sign?

Potentially. 23 complaint reports fall into higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components. That does not prove every vehicle has a defect, but repeated complaints in those systems justify a more careful pre-purchase inspection.

How should buyers use complaint data for the 2020 Dodge Durango?

Use complaints as an early pattern to investigate, not a standalone verdict. Start with the top complaint categories, compare those themes against the recall report and maintenance guide, then inspect service records for evidence that the same problem areas were already addressed. If the same issue appears repeatedly across complaints and recalls, treat it as a real ownership-risk flag.

Are complaints about the 2020 Dodge Durango severe?

23 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection before purchase.

Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.

Read complaint summaries

Dodge Durango: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?

Use complaint patterns together with recalls and maintenance guidance to estimate ownership risk and inspection priorities.

Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.

Return to full vehicle report
Complaint entries
59
Top-topic view
5 grouped topics shown
Primary source
NHTSA ODI owner complaint records

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In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Common Problems
  3. 03Owner Complaints
  4. 04Data and Methodology

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