1999 Dodge Durango SLR 5.2

Summary:

We have mixed emotions on the car, some good some bad

Faults:

Upper and lower ball joints have failed twice.

ABS module went out.

MAP Sensor went out.

Throttle position sensor went out.

Rear wheel speed sensor went out.

Repeated check engine light goes on.

Paint peels when washed with high power washer.

Constantly pulls to the right.

Glove box latch keeps breaking.

General Comments:

We love the truck, it has fantastic power and drives very well... when it is functioning correctly.

There always seems to be an array of lights on, on the dash.

A change of tires creates a disproportionate change in gas mileage.

We feel safe driving it and it is excellent on long trips, but worry about the constant mechanical failures.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 17th March, 2005

1999 Dodge Durango XT 5.2

Summary:

I love my Durango, and she keeps on going!

Faults:

I have replaced two batteries.

The coil wire was replaced at 27,000 miles.

ABS light and rear sensor replaced at 51,000 miles.

The front brakes have be replaced twice.

General Comments:

I am probably in the minority here, but I love my Dodge Durango!

At 157,000 miles, I feel I purchased a good one. Of course, I did change the oil every 3,000 miles as directed. And did perform maintenance as instructed, but I haven't had a lot of the problems I read from unhappy Durango owners.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th March, 2005

1999 Dodge Durango SLT V8

Summary:

Awful

Faults:

Had to have a new computer put in it at 69,000 miles.

The ball joints on it are going bad now.

My electric windows in the back don't work all the time. Only one window will work once in awhile, but not too often.

General Comments:

I would not recommend anyone buying this make and model of vehicle. When my computer went out, I had it at two different Dodge dealerships and they both told me nothing was wrong with it. Luckily, I have a friend who works at another Dodge dealership bring his computer over and hook my Durango up to it. The computer pulled up that I needed a new computer for it. It was still under warranty so it was covered. But the point being with me only owning it for 7 months and it only had 69,000 miles on it, it should not have needed a new computer.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 4th March, 2005

1999 Dodge Durango SLT 4x4 5.9L V8 Magnum

Summary:

Hit or miss, but a pleasure to drive

Faults:

The original 5.2L V8 Magnum seized back in November of 2004 at approx 88,000 miles. Caused by intake manifold failure which resulted in a total loss of oil pressure.

5.9L V8 Magnum installed at approx. 88,000 miles.

Passengers side rear door window failed to work when I bought the vehicle, it started working again recently.

Ball joint (upper and lower), Brakes (pads, shoes, and rotors), tie rods, idler arm, hub assemblies, were noted as failing at 90,000 miles. The vehicle now pulls to the left, with loose steering and the wheels are preparing to fall off.

General Comments:

I love the truck I really do, the leather interior, infinity sound system, third row seat, all make for an excellent combination for road trips. However, the terrible gas mileage of the absolutely massive 5.9L V8 is a large draw back.

The 4x4 will take this vehicle anywhere it needs to go and over just about anything as well. I've taken the Durango off road on numerous occasions and gone through my fair share of snow drifts. This vehicle is quite capable of driving through 6-8 inches of snow on an unplowed road without a hick-up.

I drive this hard and fast I average about 11.6 mpg in the city, but then again 20mph over the speed limit is the norm for me. It has plenty of acceleration to it however it will peel rubber in 2 wheel drive when the pedal is floored. It has a high center of balance however the weight is easily shifted if you know what you're doing and will avoid roll over.

I've done 120mph on the highway, the ride much to my surprise smooths out and the ride tightens up even more once you cross the threshold into 80+ mph and is an overall enjoyable experience to drive. I still find myself looking for excuses to drive it. Just be very aware of it's suspension. I wish you the best of luck.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 2nd February, 2005