2001 Dodge Durango R/T review from North America

Transmission Pan Gasket leaking at 28,000 miles.

Transmission not shifting from 1st gear to 2nd gear (Intermittent problem starting at 32,000 miles).

Transmission will not engage the reverse gear at all (42,000 miles)

When I first bought this vehicle I thought it was the best SUV ever. I love the R/T package even though it is an expensive car to drive due to gas mileage (11mpg city 15mpg highway). I really had no need for a all wheel drive (4x4) SUV, but since all wheel drive came with the R/T package I wanted, it was what I got. I washed it every weekend and kept the interior immaculate.

When I purchased the vehicle I was warned by a mechanic friend of mine (who coincidently worked for a Dodge Dealership for over 15years) to make sure the fluids (oil and transmission) were checked and changed on a regular basis.

I took the vehicle in to have new tires installed at 28,000 miles, that is when they noticed a leak in the transmission drain pan gasket. This was replaced and I had the entire Transmission system flushed and filled with new fluid. Then when the transmission started having intermittent shifting problems I twice took it to the dealer and both times they were unable to duplicate the shifting problem and sent me on my way.

Finally the transmission suddenly stopped engaging the reverse gear and I was unable to go in reverse at all. This time the Dealership said I needed a new transmission. However since I am now over the initial 36,000 mile warranty they want me to pay for a new transmission. I contacted the Corporate office and they were less than enthusiastic about my condition, reiterating that I am beyond the warranty on the vehicle in a seemingly callous manner.

My Dream car has turned into a nightmare as I still love this vehicle when it is in running order. However I feel that for the price I paid for this exceptional vehicle that the corporation/dealer would be more obliged to assist me especially considering I did first bring up the issue within the warranty period and twice they turned me away saying the vehicle was in perfect running order.

My only deduction is that there is a serious problem with the Transmissions of these vehicles. There are many posts on the Internet about transmission problems with this vehicle and I always thought it couldn't happen to me as I take exceptional care of my vehicle. In the end it didn't matter, I feel let down by the people who made this exceptional vehicle.