The interior is one of the cheapest I've ever owned or been in. I had a 2002 Ram and it was much nicer, but burned to the ground due to what Dodge determined as a gas flow vent. Strike one. On the Durango the a/c vents broke, the plastic seat side pieces broke off. The a/c wiring bundle started to burn. The carpet is crappy. The list goes on. I couldn't believe all of this after trying to be loyal to Dodge; I get another piece of crap. I will never own another Dodge vehicle.
On the flip side it did get pretty good mileage and it is a good looking vehicle.
This truly sounds like he bought a "flood car", one that was damaged in Katrina, hauled on a flatbed to another state and sold as "Used" with no comment of "reconstructed" on the title.
I get 15.7 MPG consistently from my Hemi and the interior, accessories, Satellite radio, everything is first-class and a genuine pleasure. I had a '65 1/2 ton carryall 25 years ago that I really enjoyed, but this 2004 is way better!
My advice? Get a different Durango and better luck next time.
My opinion as a owner junk junk junk.
We Durango owners have our vehicle problems.
Read some of the Ford Windstar reviews.
Lots of problems common too many vehicles.