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2021 Dodge Durango Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·21 Critical Recalls
2021 Dodge Durango Report

Overall Score

5.5/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Dodge Durango has a significant number of recalls (38) and complaints (213), indicating potential systemic issues.
  • Exterior lighting failures are the most common complaint, affecting daytime running lights and taillight assemblies.
  • Electrical system issues are also prevalent, ranging from infotainment glitches to battery problems.
  • Safety ratings are solid, with an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Dodge Durango

The 2021 Dodge Durango offers robust performance with its standard V8 engine and all-wheel drive, making it a capable, if thirsty, large SUV. However, potential buyers must weigh its strengths against a notable history of recalls and owner complaints. The vehicle's safety scores are respectable, but the sheer volume of documented issues, particularly concerning electrical systems and exterior lighting, warrants careful consideration and a detailed pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report frequent issues with Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and rear taillight assemblies, often due to LED component longevity and sealing problems leading to water intrusion.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls38
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

213
Exterior Lighting57
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
13
MPG
City
12
MPG
Highway
17
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

5.4/ 10

Practicality

3.5/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing a powerful, large SUV with strong safety scores.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Dodge Durango Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Dodge Durango.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
13

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Most Common Issues

1. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Most reported

Usage: 57 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 33 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 - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

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
38 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Dodge Durango reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Dodge Durango is 5.4/10. Reliability score is 5.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 38. Owner complaints: 213.

How practical is the 2021 Dodge Durango for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.5/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 13 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Dodge Durango is 5.5/10. Overall score is 5.5/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 3.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Exterior Lighting (LED Modules/Assemblies) (typical at 35,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $100 • Max: $500).

What engine is in the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 6.2.

What transmission does the 2021 Dodge Durango use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Dodge Durango, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 Durango require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

EPA combined estimate is 13 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

8 standard and 5 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Dodge Durango, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Dodge Durango, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Dodge Durango use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Dodge Durango, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.

What are the most common exterior lighting problems on the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

Top complaint category: exterior lighting (57 reports, 26.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

This model year has 38 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Dodge Durango?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and 2021 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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