PURCHASE ADVICE needed... Used Durango R/T

jrod4928 · Jul 1, 2019

Hey guys. Looking for some help...

I've read mixed reviews about the reliability of durangos and want to know what to look for when inspecting/test driving a used R/T... looking in the 2015/2016 year with about 50k miles (+/-). I love how they look inside and out - hoping to avoid headaches and make it a fun experience for me and the family.

Thanks - let me know what I should be looking for.

vj123 · Jul 1, 2019

Welcome to the forum.

So what kind of issues are you coming across. People who have not owned a FCA / Dodge product always have this kind of perception. I did a ton of research before buying my 2018 and AFAIK this platform doesnt have any major issues. Most components in this platform is shared by GC and Durango, GC is a flagship model for Jeep.

jrod4928 · Jul 1, 2019

vj123 said:
Welcome to the forum.

So what kind of issues are you coming across. People who have not owned a FCA / Dodge product always have this kind of perception. I did a ton of research before buying my 2018 and AFAIK this platform doesnt have any major issues. Most components in this platform is shared by GC and Durango, GC is a flagship model for Jeep.

I only have that perception based on reading consumer reports. Can't tell you anything specific, but those reports are based on actual owners so I assumed they held at least some weight. According to consumer reports, the issues start 3 or 4 years out, and they're usually annoying stuff like power interior items.

That's why I'm on the forum asking though, those consumer reports may be some parent who's angry that their kid doesn't have a 3rd cup holder because he broke the other 2 by stepping on them while climbing out of the car. I don't care about that stuff, but I figure there's some middle ground.

Are there any problem areas that you're aware of that I should look out for?

cambo · Jul 1, 2019

98k on mine water pump just covered under warranty

break rotors warped but I tow a 5K lb boat

tires few sets

seat belt needed some tweaking

part of the race trac light went out could have been removed and resealed but found out about it to late

Go for it mine still runs like new

vj123 · Jul 1, 2019

jrod4928 said:
I only have that perception based on reading consumer reports. Can't tell you anything specific, but those reports are based on actual owners so I assumed they held at least some weight. According to consumer reports, the issues start 3 or 4 years out, and they're usually annoying stuff like power interior items.

That's why I'm on the forum asking though, those consumer reports may be some parent who's angry that their kid doesn't have a 3rd cup holder because he broke the other 2 by stepping on them while climbing out of the car. I don't care about that stuff, but I figure there's some middle ground.

Are there any problem areas that you're aware of that I should look out for?

I have heard several issues about water pump and taillight water seepage. Other than these, there isnt any major known issue even on the vehicles from 2011.

I am an anti extended warranty person but another major factor which added confidence to my Durango's purchase was Max Care warranty. I purchased it as its offered directly by the manufacturer without being under written about third parties unlike most OEMs. Until last Nov, there was an option to buy the lifetime warranty and 8 year option is still available. If you really concerned about reliability, you can consider adding Max care for your Durango as well.

I am linking below similar reliability discussions for your reference.
https://www.dodgedurango.net/forums...-discussions-2014/75092-considering-durango-gt-questions-about-reliability.html
https://www.dodgedurango.net/forums...t/forums/durango-discussions/66530-dodge-reliability-family-space-thoughts.html

1BADR/T · Jul 1, 2019

x2 on the water pump (common) issue, no big deal, replaced under manufacturer powertrain warranty. Other than that I have 51k stress free miles. Probably my favorite vehicle I've owned. I can haul all 4 of my kids with plenty of room, and I feel like I have the muscle of a Charger/Challenger. Good luck!

jrod4928 · Jul 1, 2019

Thanks to both of you - this is the stuff I was hoping to hear. If you can think of anything else - let me know.

Don Fox · Jul 1, 2019

Jrod:
Something else to keep in mind is that the FCA powertrain warranty dropped from 5yr/100K to 5yr/60K for the '16 model year. If you were gonna buy an extension, that may be a moot point. A '15 or '16 would still have some remaining PT warranty with the odo in the 50K range.

Don

jrod4928 · Jul 2, 2019

Test drove an R/T today. (2015) found some issues

The carfax said the PCM was reprogrammed. Twice... once at 15000 (carfax said a nav unit was installed at the same time) and again at around 43000 (no explanation for why). It has 50k miles now..... the dealer that has the car is a Volvo dealer, so they dont know much about the dodge or why it was reprogrammed.

While test driving, I was accelerating and heard a small backfire. Is this normal? Or related to the PCM reprogram somehow?

Also, there was some bubbling paint on the hood, at the corner where the headlight and the grill meet. Is this normal on durangos?

Also noticed some wet oil on the bottom of the transmission/oil pan (not sure which it was).

Probably going to pass on buying this one...

Are these normal issues to be expected on a 2015? Any idea about the PCM or backfires? Oil leak? Bubbling paint? Im curious...

Edit::: a different (2016) R/T that I'll be looking at also had a PCM reprogram at around 40k miles. What is PCM reprogramming?

driveandeat · Jul 2, 2019

Sold my friend's old dodge before and he mentioned that it would be helpful if the owner do not really "pimped" it since it shows that the seller is trying to hide something and just attracting you to buy it. (this is just my suggestion).

jfire72 · Jul 2, 2019

jrod4928 said:
Test drove an R/T today. (2015) found some issues

The carfax said the PCM was reprogrammed. Twice... once at 15000 (carfax said a nav unit was installed at the same time) and again at around 43000 (no explanation for why). It has 50k miles now..... the dealer that has the car is a Volvo dealer, so they dont know much about the dodge or why it was reprogrammed.

While test driving, I was accelerating and heard a small backfire. Is this normal? Or related to the PCM reprogram somehow?

Also, there was some bubbling paint on the hood, at the corner where the headlight and the grill meet. Is this normal on durangos?

Also noticed some wet oil on the bottom of the transmission/oil pan (not sure which it was).

Probably going to pass on buying this one...

Are these normal issues to be expected on a 2015? Any idea about the PCM or backfires? Oil leak? Bubbling paint? Im curious...

Edit::: a different (2016) R/T that I'll be looking at also had a PCM reprogram at around 40k miles. What is PCM reprogramming?

PCM is the computer, and was probably reprogrammed by a dealer. Can be a lot of reasons for that, one that comes to mind is for a recall.

The backfiring was probably due to the previous owner and something that was done or not done properly to that DD. Could have just needed new spark plugs (doubtful at that milage), a very clogged air filter, or maybe a bad aftermarket exhaust job.

I'm guessing it wasn't taken car of very well, especially if there was fresh oil visible. Of course the place where you test drove it from could have just done a sloppy oil change.

The paint is not a common issue that I'm aware of on the 2014's and up. I'm guessing something hit it there and the repaint job wasn't very good.

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

Don Fox · Jul 2, 2019

Jrod:
Carfax at times does not do a very good job of informing why an action was done, but in fairness, the dealer or servicing entity probably does not take any extra time to do it either. PCM programming is common for any type of electrical or emissions updates. It mentions that NAV was added, so that unit would need to be integrated by telling one or more on board computers that it is present so they can communicate and allow it to function.

The backfire or whatever you heard would be a concern. Since the selling dealer is a Volvo place, they likely just want to find it a new home as folks don't usually go there to buy an FCA product. I have gotten quite a few good deals this way. IF you like it, you may be able to work that angle. You are in the driver's seat (pun intended lol), and that being the case, I would find and drive several before you pull the trigger.

Places like autotrader, cargurus, cars.com, etc will help you find a good one. If you are willing to travel, many times you can save a big chunk of cash. I found the Santa Fe suv my wife wanted 400 miles away in Chattanooga, TN at a Dodge dealer. It was just 3 years old, with 18K on it, and they accepted $4K less that my local dealers here in SW Ohio wanted for one with the normal 36-45K miles expected on a 3 year old vehicle.

Don

jrod4928 · Jul 2, 2019

Don Fox said:
Jrod:
Carfax at times does not do a very good job of informing why an action was done, but in fairness, the dealer or servicing entity probably does not take any extra time to do it either. PCM programming is common for any type of electrical or emissions updates. It mentions that NAV was added, so that unit would need to be integrated by telling one or more on board computers that it is present so they can communicate and allow it to function.

The backfire or whatever you heard would be a concern. Since the selling dealer is a Volvo place, they likely just want to find it a new home as folks don't usually go there to buy an FCA product. I have gotten quite a few good deals this way. IF you like it, you may be able to work that angle. You are in the driver's seat (pun intended lol), and that being the case, I would find and drive several before you pull the trigger.

Places like autotrader, cargurus, cars.com, etc will help you find a good one. If you are willing to travel, many times you can save a big chunk of cash. I found the Santa Fe suv my wife wanted 400 miles away in Chattanooga, TN at a Dodge dealer. It was just 3 years old, with 18K on it, and they accepted $4K less that my local dealers here in SW Ohio wanted for one with the normal 36-45K miles expected on a 3 year old vehicle.

Don

Good points. I thought the same about the Volvo dealership wanting to get rid of it. If it was in decent shape, I would've used that leverage, but I'm staying away from this one...

I am willing to travel a few hours... I'm going out-of-state today to look at another R/T... 2016 about 35k miles, blacktop. Looks to be in great condition, and it's listed about $3k higher than I wanted to pay... Durango's don't seem to fly off the lot, so I'm hoping I can show up with a checkbook and convince them...….

Don Fox · Jul 2, 2019

Jrod:
Good luck on your trip. Don't kid yourself though about Durangos flying lol. Back in 2010, when I was looking for the 04 I have had since then, I had 5 or 6 Durangos sold out from under me before I could get to them. Run that '16 through KBB, and see what they say. Depending on where it is, you may get them to meet you on price, or not. I have heard stories from folks in Florida who say they have to travel away from their area to get a good price. The reason given, is that the older folks with big checkbooks will roll in, and write them a check for whatever they ask. It kind of screws the guy/gal who is looking to haggle a bit.

Don

jrod4928 · Jul 2, 2019

Don Fox said:
Jrod:
Good luck on your trip. Don't kid yourself though about Durangos flying lol. Back in 2010, when I was looking for the 04 I have had since then, I had 5 or 6 Durangos sold out from under me before I could get to them. Run that '16 through KBB, and see what they say. Depending on where it is, you may get them to meet you on price, or not. I have heard stories from folks in Florida who say they have to travel away from their area to get a good price. The reason given, is that the older folks with big checkbooks will roll in, and write them a check for whatever they ask. It kind of screws the guy/gal who is looking to haggle a bit.

Don

This one was in better shape, no problems. But they wouldn't budge on price, of course the dealer was trying to justify not moving the price but I just dont think he was motivated... hasnt been on the lot long enough. May have to play the long game and be patient.

A different one that was local just sold today, so we will see what happens. Maybe after the 4th of July there will be some trade ins that I can buy.

DuRonbo · Jul 2, 2019

Have you checked KBB on the average value of the Durangos you've been looking at in particular? You say you thought the price was was higher than you wanted to pay on the one but have you researched and checked what market value is on what you're interested in?

I just bought a 2013 Citadel and thanks to research, I was prepared on pricing and was able to negotiate a little to get it down to the Average pricing for the Year/Trim/Mileage. And several of the Durangos I was interested in previous to buying the Citadel sold within a week. I don't think these vehicles are sitting on lots collecting dust and sell quickly. That usually leads to somewhat of a price bump due to demand.

Again..do your research on the vehicle you're interested in and realize they sell quickly if reasonably priced. My Citadel was from a local Dodge dealer that took it in trade.

jrod4928 · Jul 3, 2019

DuRonbo said:
Have you checked KBB on the average value of the Durangos you've been looking at in particular? You say you thought the price was was higher than you wanted to pay on the one but have you researched and checked what market value is on what you're interested in?

I just bought a 2013 Citadel and thanks to research, I was prepared on pricing and was able to negotiate a little to get it down to the Average pricing for the Year/Trim/Mileage. And several of the Durangos I was interested in previous to buying the Citadel sold within a week. I don't think these vehicles are sitting on lots collecting dust and sell quickly. That usually leads to somewhat of a price bump due to demand.

Again..do your research on the vehicle you're interested in and realize they sell quickly if reasonably priced. My Citadel was from a local Dodge dealer that took it in trade.

I've done a lot of research both on market prices and kbb... the one that sold today sat on the lot for over 2 months according to cargurus. The one I visited today was only on the lot 2 or 3 weeks. He said his tolerance is about 50 days.... the timing isnt right for that one yet.

I've searched cars.com, autotrader, kbb, edmunds, local dealer sites, craigslist, and I have documented in excel which car I like, price, location, options, and the kbb suggested price compared to market price.... trust me, research isnt my problem. Lol.

My problem might be that I live in an area that can sell cars for a higher price than other areas (doctors and people like that live near here... I'm no doctor haha). So I see lower prices in other regions but local dealers refuse to lower prices cuz people around me have money.

jrod4928 · Jul 3, 2019

There is one about 4 hours away that is a good price... anyone ever buy sight unseen? Makes me kind of nervous. Haha. Of course I could ask for pictures. But you know how that is. It appears to be at a reputable dealership so that should help...

mailtoome1 · Jul 5, 2019

jrod4928 said:
Hey guys. Looking for some help...

I've read mixed reviews about the reliability of durangos and want to know what to look for when inspecting/test driving a used R/T... looking in the 2015/2016 year with about 50k miles (+/-). I love how they look inside and out - hoping to avoid headaches and make it a fun experience for me and the family.

Welcome. I bought my 2014 RT with 40k miles about almost 3 yrs ago. Got a 5 yr bumper to bumper platinum warranty thru my credit union with only a $100 deductible for any repairs which covers everything except maintenance. I now have 70k miles and never had any issues nor repairs needed. Just normal oil changes and upgraded rotors n brakes just because of peace of mind and I wanted drilled and slotted rotors lol. This vehicle is amazing and reliable and top rated in SUV. Its definitely a great choice but definitely get warranty just incase. You never know. Good luck

mantis · Jul 5, 2019

jrod4928 said:
Test drove an R/T today. (2015) found some issues

The carfax said the PCM was reprogrammed. Twice... once at 15000 (carfax said a nav unit was installed at the same time) and again at around 43000 (no explanation for why). It has 50k miles now..... the dealer that has the car is a Volvo dealer, so they dont know much about the dodge or why it was reprogrammed.

While test driving, I was accelerating and heard a small backfire. Is this normal? Or related to the PCM reprogram somehow?

Also, there was some bubbling paint on the hood, at the corner where the headlight and the grill meet. Is this normal on durangos?

Also noticed some wet oil on the bottom of the transmission/oil pan (not sure which it was).

Probably going to pass on buying this one...

Are these normal issues to be expected on a 2015? Any idea about the PCM or backfires? Oil leak? Bubbling paint? Im curious...

Edit::: a different (2016) R/T that I'll be looking at also had a PCM reprogram at around 40k miles. What is PCM reprogramming?

I have a 2017 Durango R/T and I have the Bubbling in the same exact spot. Dodge is replacing the hood Monday. My dealership took digital pictures and sent to them to Dodge. They also told me this is a common issue in that spot. Mine is still under warranty so I'm not really upset about it. It's like it's rusting from underneath the paint.
I have only 21k miles on mine and I have had no issues. One of my tail pipes is leaning inwards and I hate it but Dodge said this is within normal tolerence. I find that to be bullshit and I'm gonna fix it myself or replace it with an aftermarket exhaust.
These are very fun Trucks to drive. I've had other SUV's and none of them where even close to how cool this truck it. I love mine and want to upgrade to the SRT.

PURCHASE ADVICE needed... Used Durango R/T

jrod4928

vj123

jrod4928

cambo

vj123

1BADR/T

jrod4928

Don Fox

jrod4928

driveandeat

jfire72

Don Fox

jrod4928

Don Fox

jrod4928

DuRonbo

jrod4928

jrod4928

mailtoome1

mantis

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