2004-2008 Dodge Durango: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2004-2008 Dodge Durango and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Cargo room
- Ride
- Passenger room
- Trailer-towing capability
Cons
- Acceleration
- Fuel economy
Vehicle Highlights
Dodge redesigned its midsize sport-utility vehicle for 2004, giving it larger dimensions and more available power. The new Durango was 3 inches longer in wheelbase, 7 inches longer overall, close to 5 inches wider--and almost 400 pounds heavier than its predecessor. Principal competitors included the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota 4Runner. Durangos were offered with rear-wheel drive and two all-wheel-drive systems, one with low-range gearing. Three engines were available: a new 3.7-liter V6, a 4.7-liter V8, and a newly optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 85 more horsepower than the largest previous engine. V6 models came with a four-speed automatic transmission; V8s had a five-speed automatic with tow/haul mode. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS were standard. Traction control was newly optional, but an antiskid system was unavailable. Also optional were curtain side airbags that covered all three rows of seats. Front torso side airbags were not offered. Durangos came in ST, SLT, and Limited trim. ST models had two rows of seats for five-passenger capacity; the SLT and Limited had a third row to seat up to seven. Third-row seats folded flat to the floor. The Durango's rear liftgate lacked separate-opening glass. Limiteds had leather upholstery, which was optional on the SLT. Other available features included adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, DVD entertainment, satellite radio, and Chrysler's UConnect, which used the audio system as a hands-free, wireless link to any cell phone in the vehicle. A sunroof was available for the first time. Durangos could tow as much as 8950 pounds.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Dodge Durango AWD SLT 4.7-liter Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 9 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2004-2008 Dodge Durango. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2004-2008 Dodge Durango.
Year to Year Changes
2005 Dodge Durango:
A new Adventurer option package for outdoors enthusiasts included a rubber cargo-area liner with built-in organizer, plus a special roof rack and unique trim. Limited models could now be fitted with a navigation system. Heated front seats were newly available for the SLT as well as the Limited.
2006 Dodge Durango:
An antiskid system became standard on the Limited edition and optional for other Durangos. Limiteds now offered eight-passenger seating, courtesy of a new three-place third-row seat. A power rear liftgate was made standard on the Limited and optional for the SLT. Traction control was no longer offered on Durangos.
2007 Dodge Durango:
Dodge's largest SUV got revised front and rear styling and some new features for 2007. Traction control was not offered, but an antiskid system was standard instead of optional for '07, as were curtain side airbags that cover all three seating rows. Newly available for '07 were 2nd-row bucket seats, remote engine start, 20-inch wheels, and dual-zone climate control.
2008 Dodge Durango:
The 2008 Dodge Durango got a more powerful, 303-hp 4.7-liter V8 engine this year. This engine replaced a 235-hp 4.7 V8.
Our road test for the 2004-2008 Dodge Durango includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2004-2008 Dodge Durango and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2004-2008 Dodge Durango is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Performance varies according to engine. The V6 is tepid at best in both initial acceleration and passing power; Dodge estimated 12.2 second 0-60 mph time. Durango's 4.7-liter V8 is strong off the line, but passing power is weak. So is its estimated 10.2-second 0-60 mph time. The optional 5.7 V8 delivers plenty of power at all speeds, but its estimated 8.2-second 0-60 time only matches that of Ford Explorer's smaller 4.6-liter V8. Models equipped with AWD are slightly slower from start-off. Fuel economy wins no awards. An AWD SLT averaged 13.2 to 13.9 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. An AWD Limited with the Hem V8 averaged 13.9 to 15.3 mpg. Durangos are among the nicest riding domestic SUVs. Suspensions iron out small bumps without being sloppy in side-to-side motions, though ruts and larger bumps can induce bounce. Steering is direct, but light and slow to react to quick directional changes. Expect moderate to considerable body lean in turns, but fine brake-pedal feel. Engines are quiet at idle, but growl during acceleration. No tire whine is noticeable. Wind rush starts at around 60 mph, but never drowns out normal conversation. Large white-faced gauges are backlit in green at night, and always easy to read. All controls are within arm's reach. Interior materials are appropriate for the class and mostly durable-looking, but some lightweight plastics detract. Front occupants enjoy plenty of leg and head room, even with the optional sunroof, while the driver gets a high, commanding view of the road. It's easy to find a comfortable driving position, but thick front pillars obstruct the view around corners. Large mirrors aid the rear view, and the available rear DVD screen does not block the view astern. Entry/exit requires a large step up, but becomes easier if available running boards are installed. Second-row seats offer good head, leg, and toe room. Leg room is only tight for taller riders with the front seat fully rearward. The second row flips and folds with one hand, to allow access to the third row. The third-row bench can accommodate adults, but its seat bottom lacks thigh support. Cargo volume is among the largest in its class. Second- and third-row seatbacks fold to create a nearly flat floor. Back glass does not open, but the tailgate liftover is floor-level, making loading large or heavy items easy. The standard one-piece third-row seat can only be folded from inside the vehicle, after moving the cushion forward, but the optional seat folds from outside. Dodge said a 4x8 panel would fit on the floor between the wheelwells, but it's too long for the tailgate to close. Abundant in-cabin storage includes a deep center console and useful console tray.
Value for the Money
Even larger than the 1998-2003 model, Durango matches some full-size SUVs for space and towing capacity. Unfortunately, it also matches their poor gas mileage. Overall, a Durango accelerates like a good midsize SUV, and it compares favorably to domestic rivals. We recommend that the underpowered V6 be avoided in favor of a V8--preferably the 5.7-liter Hemi. Thus equipped, Durango earns a Recommended rating.
Even larger than the 1998-2003 model, Durango matches some full-size SUVs for space and towing capacity. Unfortunately, it also matches their poor gas mileage. Overall, a Durango accelerates like a good midsize SUV, and it compares favorably to domestic rivals. We recommend that the underpowered V6 be avoided in favor of a V8--preferably the 5.7-liter Hemi. Thus equipped, Durango earns a Recommended rating.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Dodge Durango AWD SLT 4.7-liter Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 9 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 56 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Dodge Durango includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Dodge Durango .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Brakes:
Brake pedal pulsation caused by original pads leading to runout of the rotor(s), which requires resurfacing (or replacing) the rotors and new brake pads. (2004-05)
Poor drivability:
The vehicle may have difficulty backing up on a steep hill requiring reprogramming the powertrain control module. (2005-06)
Starter:
The remote starter may not work because of a failed hood switch. (2004-05)
Steering problems:
Power steering additives containing Teflon can plug up the filter in the fluid reservoir. (2004-05)
Transmission problems:
Transmission may suffer delayed engagement after sitting overnight due to split in the filter in fluid cooler return line. (2005-06)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $600 |
| Alternator | $380 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,960 |
| Brakes | $340 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $890 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,450 |
| Exhaust System | $650 |
| Radiator | $735 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $540 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $650 |
Our price chart for this generation Dodge Durango details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| Durango | $14,200-20,500 | $12,900-18,700 | $8,700-12,500 |
| Durango Limited | $19,500-23,000 | $17,900-21,200 | $12,700-15,000 |
| 2007 | |||
| Durango | $12,000-17,000 | $10,800-15,300 | $6,700-9,500 |
| Durango Limited | $16,500-19,500 | $15,000-17,700 | $10,600-12,500 |
| 2006 | |||
| Durango | $10,400-14,500 | $9,400-13,100 | $5,500-7,700 |
| Durango Limited | $14,000-16,500 | $12,700-15,000 | $8,500-10,100 |
| 2005 | |||
| Durango | $8,900-13,500 | $8,000-12,200 | $4,600-7,000 |
| Durango Limited | $12,200-14,300 | $11,000-12,900 | $6,800-8,000 |
| 2004 | |||
| Durango | $7,500-11,000 | $6,800-9,900 | $3,800-5,500 |
| Durango Limited | $10,700-12,500 | $9,600-11,300 | $5,700-6,600 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Dodge Durango include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door wagon | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 119.2 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 200.8 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 76.0 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 74.3 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 5015 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 102.4 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 27.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.8 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.4 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.3 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.4 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Three engines are available in Durangos. A 210-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 in ST and SLT 2WD models mates with a four-speed automatic transmission. Both the 230-horsepower 4.7-liter V8 and the 335-horsepower Hemi 5.7-liter V8 work with a five-speed automatic. For 2008, a more powerful 303-hp 4.7-liter V8 engine replaced a 235-hp 4.7 V8.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc V6 | 3.7 / 225 | 210 | 235 | 4-speed automatic: 16/21 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V8 | 4.7 / 287 | 230-303 | 290 | 5-speed automatic: 14/18 | 5-speed automatic: 13.6 |
| ohv V8 | 5.7 / 345 | 335 | 370 | 5-speed automatic: 13/18 | 5-speed automatic: 14.6 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Dodge Durango include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2005 Durango |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2004-2008 Dodge Durango directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2004 Durango:
Positive battery cable may contact upper control arm mounting bracket, which could result in short circuit.
2005 Durango:
Fuel tank filler tube inlet check valve may not fully close at end of refueling, allowing some fuel to escape from filler neck.
2005-06 Durango:
During certain operating conditions, windshield wiper motor armature shaft may break.
2005-06 Durango:
The front windshield wiper motor armature shaft may break, causing a loss of front windshield wiping capability, which could occur and the driver's vision could be obscured. Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield wiper motor.
2005-06 Durango w/42RLE automatic transmission:
Cup plug that retains park pawl anchor shaft may be improperly installed, which could prevent engagement of "park" position.
2006 Durango:
Static electricity spark could cause turn signal, headlamps or wipers to malfunction without warning.
2006 Durango:
Wrong occupant restraint controller was installed on some vehicles, causing an increased risk of injury to the driver under certain crash conditions. Dealers will replace the occupant restraint control module.
2006 Durango w/ ABS:
Rear brakes could lock up under certain braking conditions.
2007 Durango:
The right front steering knuckle may have been improperly manufactured and could fracture, resulting in a loss of steering control. Dealers will inspect the recalled vehicles to identify the defective parts and replace them as necessary.
2007 Durango w/automatic:
The powertrain control software can cause a momentary lock up of the drive wheels if the vehicle is traveling over 40 mph and the operator shifts from drive to neutral and back to drive. If the drive wheels locked up, loss of vehicle control could occur. Dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module free of charge.
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