1998 Dodge Durango SLT Plus review from North America

Front and rear axle bearings went bad at 40,000 and 65,000 miles, respectively.

This vehicle has been one of the most reliable, comfortable, and useful rigs I've ever owned. It has plenty of power, is comfortable for long trips, and drives predictably. It doubles nicely as an outstanding family car and utility vehicle for hauling lots of live music equipment or camping gear.

Brakes are one of the two areas that I would like to see some improvement in. I think they are a tad undersized for my idea of an "ideal" tow unit. However, when using a trailer with brakes, the Durango makes a fantastic tow vehicle.

The second complaint I have is not so much a complaint as it is a fact of life when driving a V8. The gas mileage stinks. My wife and I average about 13 miles per gallon. That seems a bit low for a vehicle of this size.

I recently purchased a new vehicle to replace my other car. During the shopping period, I was hard pressed to bring myself to purchase anything other than another Durango. In the end I decided to diversify the "type" of vehicle my wife and I maintain as a second car, and went with a pickup (2002 Dodge Ram).

I've spent my life around the car business (in one form or another). I don't like Chrysler cars. However, I am a big fan of their truck division. In my opinion, Dodge vehicles are not for the person who buys a car and expects to be able to neglect its maintenance. However, if you don't mind maintaining a vehicle, I would be surprised if your Durango doesn't perform and last a very long time.