Owners have filed 2,091 complaints
about the 2009 Dodge Journey with NHTSA between 2008 and 2026.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 13 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Dodge Journey. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 41
8% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 53
31% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Pressure Monitoring AND Regulating Systems
1317.6%
Ignition
1114.9%
Automatic Transmission
1114.9%
Rotor
912.2%
Valve
810.8%
Body
810.8%
Pads
79.5%
Front
79.5%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
423.0%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
463.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
22816.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
23316.6%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
23616.8%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
24317.3%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
27719.7%
150,000+ miles
1027.2%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2009 Dodge Journey 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
17.9% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
May 2008peak 92Apr 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2009 Dodge Journey
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
1
investigation is
still open.
EA24003Opened 1 Aug 2024Still openLATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
Vehicle entrapment
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23-008 on May 1, 2023 to investigate an incident involving a 2009 Dodge Journey alleging occupant entrapment during a vehicle fire that resulted in a fatality. During the investigation, ODI collected information from the manufacturer and involved parties to confirm or refute the defect allegation. ODI has determined that additional reports of vehicle entrapment exist for other model year Dodge Journey vehicles. ODI continues to explore the cause of the thermal event and its potential effect on the actuation of the door locks. ODI also continue...
PE23008Opened 1 May 2023Closed 15 Aug 2024LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Vehicle entrapment
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE23008 on May 1, 2023 to investigate an incident involving a 2009 Dodge Journey alleging occupant entrapment during a vehicle fire that resulted in a fatality. During this investigation, ODI collected information and evidence related to the defect allegation and incident, from the manufacturer and involved parties. The information and evidence collected in this initial phase was insufficient to make a defect determination. ODI has upgraded this investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA24003) to develop a more comprehensive understanding of...
DP14004Opened 25 Sep 2014Closed 24 Jul 2015ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Totally Integrated Power Module Failure
In a letter dated August 21, 2014, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a defect investigation of alleged failures associated with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) installed in Chrysler SUV?s, trucks, and vans beginning in the 2007 model year. The petitioner alleges that TIPM defects may result in engine stall, airbag non-deployment, failure of fuel pump shutoff resulting in unintended acceleration, fire, and other symptoms. On September 25, 2014, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened DP14-004 to...
RQ14002Opened 16 Jun 2014Closed 2 Mar 2015AIR BAGS
Air Bag Non-Deployment/Engine Stall
In March 2011 Chrysler submitted a defect information report for NHTSA Recall No. 11V139 declaring a defect condition that could cause the ignition key to inadvertently move from the RUN to the ACC position on model year (MY) 2010 Dodge Journey, Grand Caravan, and Chrysler Town and Country.The report identified engine stalling as the defect consequence and cited customer complaints and warranty claims, as well as two rear-end collisions, as leading to the recall action.Chrysler determined that a defective WIN module, which is effectively the equivalent of the ignition switch, was the cause of...
Recalls on the 2009 Dodge Journey
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
16V273000
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2009-2016 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured July 31, 2007, to November 12, 2016. After exposure to cold temperatures, the power steering return hose may rupture at engine start-up causing a loss of power steering assist.
Risk: A loss of power steering assist may require extra steering effort, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
16V047000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
FCA US LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2009 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured December 31, 2007, to August 31, 2008, 2008-2009 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles manufactured June 18, 2007, to August 31, 2008. In the affected vehicles, the air bag control units may corrode and fail.
Risk: If the air bag control unit fails, the air bags may not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of occupant injury. Additionally, the air bags may inadvertently deploy, increasing the risk of a crash.
14V373000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2009-2010 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured June 29, 2007, to June 17, 2010, and 2008-2010 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles manufactured January 26, 2007, to June 17, 2010. Road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
Risk: If the ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which will then depower various key safety systems including but not limited to air bags, power steering, and power braking. Loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash and/or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
10V658000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 DODGE JOURNEY VEHICLES MANUFACTURER FROM NOVEMBER 1, 2007, THROUGH NOVEMBER 7, 2008. THE WIRES WITHIN THE FRONT DOOR WIRE HARNESSES MAY FATIGUE AND BREAK, WHICH CAN INTERRUPT THE CIRCUITS FOR THE SIDE IMPACT SENSOR(S), RESULTING IN AN AIRBAG WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATION AND LOSS OF SIDE CRASH SENSING CAPABILITY.
Risk: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SIDE AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY, REDUCING THE PROTECTION INTENDED FOR THE OCCUPANT AND INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.
09V118000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 4,314 MY 2009 DODGE JOURNEY, JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE, COMMANDER AND WRANGLER VEHICLES. WIRING MAY BE REVERSED ON THE STEERING COLUMN CONTROL MODULE DRIVER AIRBAG SQUIB CONNECTOR. THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY AS INTENDED.
Risk: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG MAY NOT PROPERLY INFLATE AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY PROTECT AN OCCUPANT, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.
09V082000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 16,852 MY 2009 DODGE JOURNEY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITHOUT OPTIONAL 115 VOLT AUXILIARY POWER OUTLET. AN UNUSED ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR FOR THE OPTIONAL 115 VOLT AUXILIARY POWER OUTLET OPTION MAY BECOME CORRODED AND COULD SHORT CIRCUIT.
Risk: IF THE FUSE FOR THIS CIRCUIT DOES NOT BLOW, THE CONNECTOR COULD OVERHEAT AND POTENTIALLY CATCH FIRE.
08V528000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 712 MY 2009 SEBRING, DODGE CALIBER, AVENGER, JOURNEY, JEEP PATRIOT, AND COMPASS VEHICLES. A NEW ADHESIVE USED IN THE POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) MANUFACTURING PROCESS CAN CAUSE THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD TO BREAK.
Risk: THIS CAN CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
08V247000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 6,692 MY 2009 DODGE JOURNEY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 3.5L ENGINE. THE ENGINE WIRING HARNESS MAY CONTACT THE LEFT TRANSAXLE MOUNT.
Risk: DAMAGE TO THE WIRING HARNESS COULD RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2016202186,767 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, the power steering return hose could rupture at engine start up if the vehicle is exposed to extended cold weather conditions. A power steering hose leak could result in the loss of power steering assist and increased steering effort, which depending on the driver's reactions and traffic conditions, could increase the risk of a crash resulting in injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the return side power steering lines with new parts that are validated for extreme cold weather performance.
Recall 201604430,284 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, a defect in the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) system could result in inadvertent airbag / seatbelt pretensioner deployment, or prevent airbags / seatbelt pretensioners from deploying when warranted. Unintended airbag / seatbelt pretensioner deployment, in a non-warranted (non-impact) situation, could startle the driver, and could result in a vehicle crash causing injury and/or property damage. Furthermore, failure of the airbags / seatbelt pretensioners to deploy in a crash when warranted could increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants. Correction: Dealers will replace the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module.
Recall 2015250161,349 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, the Wireless Ignition Node (a.k.a ignition switch) may allow the ignition key to inadvertently move from the ON position to the accessory (ACC) position while driving, causing the engine to shut off. This would result in a loss of motive power, power steering and power brakes, and would disable the airbags as well as other supplemental restraint systems (SRS). Increased steering and braking effort and a loss of motive power could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Loss of airbag / SRS function in a crash that warrants airbag deployment and/or other supplemental restraint system function could increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants. Correction: Dealers will install a revised WIN module and frequency operated button ignition key (FOBIK). Note: Until the correction is performed, owners are advised to remove all objects from the FOBIK (Ignition Key) such as additional keys, key chains, etc, leaving only the FOBIK (ignition key). After starting the vehicle, drivers should ensure that the key is securely and correctly aligned in the “ON” position before driving the vehicle. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 2011096 and 2014261. Vehicles having been serviced as part of these previous recalls will require re-inspection and repair.
Recall 201426197,496 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, the Wireless Ignition Node (a.k.a ignition switch) may allow the ignition key to inadvertently move from the ON position to the accessory (ACC) position while driving, causing the engine to shut off. This would result in a loss of motive power, power steering and power brakes, and would disable the airbags as well as other supplemental restraint systems (SRS). Increased steering and braking effort and a loss of motive power could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Loss of airbag / SRS function in a crash that warrants airbag deployment and/or other supplemental restraint system function could increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants. Correction: Dealers will install a revised WIN module and frequency operated button ignition key (FOBIK). Note: Until the correction is performed, owners are advised to remove all objects from the FOBIK (Ignition Key) such as additional keys, key chains, etc, leaving only the FOBIK (ignition key). After starting the vehicle, drivers should ensure that the key is securely and correctly aligned in the “ON” position before driving the vehicle. Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2015-250.
Recall 201046416,700 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, wires within the front door wire harnesses may fatigue and break, which can interrupt the circuits for the side impact sensor(s). This may result in an airbag warning lamp illumination and loss of side crash sensing capability. Failure of the lateral airbags to deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injuries to the seat occupants. Correction: Dealers will replace the wiring harnesses in both front doors.
Recall 2009108350 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, the driver airbag squib wires on the steering column control module (SCCM) may be reversed. As a result, the driver airbag may not deploy as intended which can increase the risk of driver injury or death during a vehicle crash. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the SCCM.
Recall 20090796,928 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, an unused electrical connector could become corroded and cause a short circuit. If the fuse for this circuit does not blow, the connector may overheat and catch fire, which could result in property damage, personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will re-route and stow the unused connector, and remove the fuse to disable the circuit.
Recall 2008371132 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, a broken solder joint on the printed circuit board of the Power Control Module (PCM) can affect the fuel pump relay performance and potentially result in an engine stall while driving and/or a no start of the engine. Engine stalling would result in lost propulsion which, in conjunction with traffic and road conditions, and the driver's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash. Correction: Dealers will replace the PCM.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Murphysboro, ILFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The Carbondale Fire Department was dispatched to a vehicle fire In the parking lot behind the above-listed address. Fire personnel arrived and found a 2009 Dodge Journey with an engine compartment fire. Fire personnel used tank water and a pre-connected 1 3/4 In. hose line to extinguish the fire. There were no exposures or damage to other property. Upon completing the extinguishment, an origin and cause investigation was conducted, which Included, but was not limited to, scene examination, documentation, and interviews. The owner of the vehicle stated the following: He purchased the vehicle new. He has liability Insurance only through Allstate. This Is not his primary vehicle. He does his own service. No known electrical Issues, and there were no warning lights on the vehicle before the fire. The vehicle has approximately 160,000 miles on It The only known issue with the vehicle was a power steering issue. Before the discovery of the fire, the owner had pulled into a gas station across town to add power steering fluid. Upon leaving the gas station, the owner reported that within a few blocks, he began seeing black smoke coming from under the hood, and there was an odd odor to the smoke. (Review of Oty Video cameras confirmed this account) He pulled in the parking lot at the above-listed address and accessed the engine compartment to find fire on the power steering reservoir, the plastic engine cover, and the cooling fan. He attempted to extinguish the fire with a soda he had and then attempted to retrieve water from a nearby building. Upon returning with water, the fire was too large to extinguish. The scene examination revealed an engine compartment fire that had transitioned Into the passenger compartment during the failure of the front windshield. The hood of the vehicle had completely melted away during the fire. Fire patterns in the engine compartment were consistent with the owners account of the fire. The fire was determined to be unintentional, with the
NHTSA complaint #11666519 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Murphysboro, ILFire
ENGINE
The Carbondale Fire Department was dispatched to a vehicle fire In the parking lot behind the above-listed address. Fire personnel arrived and found a 2009 Dodge Journey with an engine compartment fire. Fire personnel used tank water and a pre-connected 1 3/4 In. hose line to extinguish the fire. There were no exposures or damage to other property. Upon completing the extinguishment, an origin and cause investigation was conducted, which Included, but was not limited to, scene examination, documentation, and interviews. The owner of the vehicle stated the following: He purchased the vehicle new. He has liability Insurance only through Allstate. This Is not his primary vehicle. He does his own service. No known electrical Issues, and there were no warning lights on the vehicle before the fire. The vehicle has approximately 160,000 miles on It The only known issue with the vehicle was a power steering issue. Before the discovery of the fire, the owner had pulled into a gas station across town to add power steering fluid. Upon leaving the gas station, the owner reported that within a few blocks, he began seeing black smoke coming from under the hood, and there was an odd odor to the smoke. (Review of Oty Video cameras confirmed this account) He pulled in the parking lot at the above-listed address and accessed the engine compartment to find fire on the power steering reservoir, the plastic engine cover, and the cooling fan. He attempted to extinguish the fire with a soda he had and then attempted to retrieve water from a nearby building. Upon returning with water, the fire was too large to extinguish. The scene examination revealed an engine compartment fire that had transitioned Into the passenger compartment during the failure of the front windshield. The hood of the vehicle had completely melted away during the fire. Fire patterns in the engine compartment were consistent with the owners account of the fire. The fire was determined to be unintentional, with the
NHTSA complaint #11666519 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Crossville, TNFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
No warning. Car caught on fire due to electrical issues in the back lighter port.
NHTSA complaint #11583593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middleton, WIFire1 killed
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Vehicle owner was driving and pulled over when all warning lights began flashing, wipers came on, horn started honking, windows would not go down, doors would not unlock, and vehicle started on fire. Fire appeared to begin in the engine compartment, with fire eventually consuming entire vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11508217 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middleton, WIFire1 killed
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Vehicle owner was driving and pulled over when all warning lights began flashing, wipers came on, horn started honking, windows would not go down, doors would not unlock, and vehicle started on fire. Fire appeared to begin in the engine compartment, with fire eventually consuming entire vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11508217 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middleton, WIFire1 killed
ENGINE
Vehicle owner was driving and pulled over when all warning lights began flashing, wipers came on, horn started honking, windows would not go down, doors would not unlock, and vehicle started on fire. Fire appeared to begin in the engine compartment, with fire eventually consuming entire vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11508217 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 160,000 milesPine Bluff, AR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Journey. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
NHTSA complaint #11731127 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rock Hill, SC
STEERING
Power steering hose ruptured after a few days of snow and ice. I went to drive to the store but was unable to turn out of the driveway due to no power steering. I done some research to where I found out there was a recall for this same issue but evidently my VIN # isn't included in this recall as while as many others I have read about online. I think this needs to be looked into.
NHTSA complaint #11715663 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 77,000 milesBranford, CT
STEERING
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Journey. The contact stated that while reversing in cold weather, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. Upon inspection, the contact became aware that the power steering hose was leaking fluid and had detached. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V273000 (Steering). The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, and the contact was informed that the VIN was not associated with the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The approximate failure mileage was 77,000.
NHTSA complaint #11714906 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Scott City, MO
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Car doesnt start all the time when it does it ends up shutting off. it shuts off while driving, also cuts in and out while driving.
NHTSA complaint #11699592 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ayden, NC
STEERING
The steering locked up could not turn or straighten car out. All electrical things lights air conditioning gas light just went haywire and is still not working. The shifting system I guess is what u call it started slipping out of gear like going into natural or first gear and nothing else. Several cars had to serve to keep from getting hit at 70+ miles an hour and I had no control other than to hit the break on the freeway and pray. Accordingly to the Bob site there's so many problems I know the ones I've had I just didn't know I could let any one know that mattered. I've reported it today. The first time it slipped out of gear I thought maybe it was something I may have done as far as the electric it was Little things like AC works as it pleases airbags light up tire pressure ECT the gas light no longer moves stays on E unknown to exact dates
NHTSA complaint #11694469 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ayden, NC
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The steering locked up could not turn or straighten car out. All electrical things lights air conditioning gas light just went haywire and is still not working. The shifting system I guess is what u call it started slipping out of gear like going into natural or first gear and nothing else. Several cars had to serve to keep from getting hit at 70+ miles an hour and I had no control other than to hit the break on the freeway and pray. Accordingly to the Bob site there's so many problems I know the ones I've had I just didn't know I could let any one know that mattered. I've reported it today. The first time it slipped out of gear I thought maybe it was something I may have done as far as the electric it was Little things like AC works as it pleases airbags light up tire pressure ECT the gas light no longer moves stays on E unknown to exact dates
NHTSA complaint #11694469 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ayden, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The steering locked up could not turn or straighten car out. All electrical things lights air conditioning gas light just went haywire and is still not working. The shifting system I guess is what u call it started slipping out of gear like going into natural or first gear and nothing else. Several cars had to serve to keep from getting hit at 70+ miles an hour and I had no control other than to hit the break on the freeway and pray. Accordingly to the Bob site there's so many problems I know the ones I've had I just didn't know I could let any one know that mattered. I've reported it today. The first time it slipped out of gear I thought maybe it was something I may have done as far as the electric it was Little things like AC works as it pleases airbags light up tire pressure ECT the gas light no longer moves stays on E unknown to exact dates
NHTSA complaint #11694469 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Virginia Beach, VA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I have issues starting it. New starter, new battery and it just dies. Luckily I was parked when it died. I have children, if it dies while driving I could be in a serious car crash with my children in the car. I do not want to die, I love my car but I do not want to be put in danger because of this type of issue. I also do not want to be stranded somewhere. PLEASE HELP.
NHTSA complaint #11682538 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Virginia Beach, VA
ENGINE
I have issues starting it. New starter, new battery and it just dies. Luckily I was parked when it died. I have children, if it dies while driving I could be in a serious car crash with my children in the car. I do not want to die, I love my car but I do not want to be put in danger because of this type of issue. I also do not want to be stranded somewhere. PLEASE HELP.
NHTSA complaint #11682538 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Murphysboro, ILFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The Carbondale Fire Department was dispatched to a vehicle fire In the parking lot behind the above-listed address. Fire personnel arrived and found a 2009 Dodge Journey with an engine compartment fire. Fire personnel used tank water and a pre-connected 1 3/4 In. hose line to extinguish the fire. There were no exposures or damage to other property. Upon completing the extinguishment, an origin and cause investigation was conducted, which Included, but was not limited to, scene examination, documentation, and interviews. The owner of the vehicle stated the following: He purchased the vehicle new. He has liability Insurance only through Allstate. This Is not his primary vehicle. He does his own service. No known electrical Issues, and there were no warning lights on the vehicle before the fire. The vehicle has approximately 160,000 miles on It The only known issue with the vehicle was a power steering issue. Before the discovery of the fire, the owner had pulled into a gas station across town to add power steering fluid. Upon leaving the gas station, the owner reported that within a few blocks, he began seeing black smoke coming from under the hood, and there was an odd odor to the smoke. (Review of Oty Video cameras confirmed this account) He pulled in the parking lot at the above-listed address and accessed the engine compartment to find fire on the power steering reservoir, the plastic engine cover, and the cooling fan. He attempted to extinguish the fire with a soda he had and then attempted to retrieve water from a nearby building. Upon returning with water, the fire was too large to extinguish. The scene examination revealed an engine compartment fire that had transitioned Into the passenger compartment during the failure of the front windshield. The hood of the vehicle had completely melted away during the fire. Fire patterns in the engine compartment were consistent with the owners account of the fire. The fire was determined to be unintentional, with the
NHTSA complaint #11666519 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Murphysboro, ILFire
ENGINE
The Carbondale Fire Department was dispatched to a vehicle fire In the parking lot behind the above-listed address. Fire personnel arrived and found a 2009 Dodge Journey with an engine compartment fire. Fire personnel used tank water and a pre-connected 1 3/4 In. hose line to extinguish the fire. There were no exposures or damage to other property. Upon completing the extinguishment, an origin and cause investigation was conducted, which Included, but was not limited to, scene examination, documentation, and interviews. The owner of the vehicle stated the following: He purchased the vehicle new. He has liability Insurance only through Allstate. This Is not his primary vehicle. He does his own service. No known electrical Issues, and there were no warning lights on the vehicle before the fire. The vehicle has approximately 160,000 miles on It The only known issue with the vehicle was a power steering issue. Before the discovery of the fire, the owner had pulled into a gas station across town to add power steering fluid. Upon leaving the gas station, the owner reported that within a few blocks, he began seeing black smoke coming from under the hood, and there was an odd odor to the smoke. (Review of Oty Video cameras confirmed this account) He pulled in the parking lot at the above-listed address and accessed the engine compartment to find fire on the power steering reservoir, the plastic engine cover, and the cooling fan. He attempted to extinguish the fire with a soda he had and then attempted to retrieve water from a nearby building. Upon returning with water, the fire was too large to extinguish. The scene examination revealed an engine compartment fire that had transitioned Into the passenger compartment during the failure of the front windshield. The hood of the vehicle had completely melted away during the fire. Fire patterns in the engine compartment were consistent with the owners account of the fire. The fire was determined to be unintentional, with the
NHTSA complaint #11666519 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Alameda, CA
AIR BAGS
On [XXX] around [XXX] I was driving 25mph in Alameda CA, and about two minutes into the ride, the airbag warning light came on. My fiance was in the passenger seat and our dog was in the back. About 15 minutes into the drive, my side airbags deployed without any collision or even bump in the road. I carefully and swiftly turned onto a side street and pulled over. My fiancé and I got out of the car, and as we took our dog out of the back seat, the primary airbags (steering wheel and passenger seat) deployed, and shattered the windshield. The dashboard was cracked as a result of the primary bags deploying. My fiancé's arm was bruised from the side airbag deploying (photo evidence taken). We called the police and they came to document the incident and confirmed that there was no collision (police report included). Vehicle was then towed home and is available for inspection. We've tried calling the dealership that the car was purchased, but it seems to be out of business. 1. Component that malfunctioned: Airbag and Indicator lights; available for inspection 2. Safety: This incident easily could've led us to crash teh vehicle and harm ourselves and others in the process, and much more seriously hurt us if we did not evacuate the car. My fiancé's arm is bruised. 3. No so far, we cannot get a hold of a dealer since ours was closed - but welcome an investigation 4. Yes, by police. The police report #[XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11641187 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 194,000 milesLos Angeles, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. The vehicle was restarted and driven to the destination. The contact stated that the following day while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with TIPM failure. The contact was informed that the totally integrated power module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 194,000.
NHTSA complaint #11608504 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 194,000 milesLos Angeles, CA
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. The vehicle was restarted and driven to the destination. The contact stated that the following day while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with TIPM failure. The contact was informed that the totally integrated power module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 194,000.
NHTSA complaint #11608504 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Crossville, TNFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
No warning. Car caught on fire due to electrical issues in the back lighter port.
NHTSA complaint #11583593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Elkhart, IN
STEERING
Power steering return hose ruptured when I started the vehicle after setting in sub zero temps for about a week. Found a recall for this same problem but my vehicle was not listed. I feel it should have been. Hope you can adjust the recall for this major issue.
NHTSA complaint #11566676 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Paducah, KY
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I've gone through 6 batteries in 1 year and I still have to keep jumping my vehicle Everytime I start it. I am currently stranded in Walmart parking lot with no jumper cables and I am being forced to walk now. Also there are times when I am driving down the highway and at any given moment it acts as if I stomped on the brakes. The lights go off and on, the windows roll up and down, the door locks are out of control and the gauges on the dashboard go out of control as well. I recently bought a new TIPM and ECM because when I replaced the battery it would no longer start. This vehicle is very dangerous and I'm sorry I ever bought it. It seems as if dodge cares more about their money than a human life
NHTSA complaint #11542211 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Paducah, KY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I've gone through 6 batteries in 1 year and I still have to keep jumping my vehicle Everytime I start it. I am currently stranded in Walmart parking lot with no jumper cables and I am being forced to walk now. Also there are times when I am driving down the highway and at any given moment it acts as if I stomped on the brakes. The lights go off and on, the windows roll up and down, the door locks are out of control and the gauges on the dashboard go out of control as well. I recently bought a new TIPM and ECM because when I replaced the battery it would no longer start. This vehicle is very dangerous and I'm sorry I ever bought it. It seems as if dodge cares more about their money than a human life
NHTSA complaint #11542211 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Paducah, KY
ENGINE
I've gone through 6 batteries in 1 year and I still have to keep jumping my vehicle Everytime I start it. I am currently stranded in Walmart parking lot with no jumper cables and I am being forced to walk now. Also there are times when I am driving down the highway and at any given moment it acts as if I stomped on the brakes. The lights go off and on, the windows roll up and down, the door locks are out of control and the gauges on the dashboard go out of control as well. I recently bought a new TIPM and ECM because when I replaced the battery it would no longer start. This vehicle is very dangerous and I'm sorry I ever bought it. It seems as if dodge cares more about their money than a human life
NHTSA complaint #11542211 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 165,000 milesBelzoni, MS
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Journey. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle failed to properly accelerate. Additionally, the transmission failed to properly shift into the intended gear, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over on the side of the road and shut off the vehicle and the vehicle failed to operate normally. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the ECM/ECU needed to be rewired. The ECM/ECU wiring harness was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the PCM needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 165,000.
NHTSA complaint #11532123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bethpage, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I'm original owner of 2009 dodge journey, and hearing of electrical problems causing fires, I want to inform you. 1) I have been having problems with the horn sounding off intermittently. 2) I have my radio that stop working which has the hands free cell phone speaker and the review camera. 3) most recently the drivers side door window switches to driver's window and front passenger window stopped working. I don't know what would be next but am concerned about the safety of my family in reference to this reported fire incident. Thank you for reading [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11520837 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mcallen, TX
AIR BAGS
The vehicle keep locking and unlocking by itself even when I am driving. Also when I was driving the airbags deployed on its own but no accident
NHTSA complaint #11520683 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mcallen, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The vehicle keep locking and unlocking by itself even when I am driving. Also when I was driving the airbags deployed on its own but no accident
NHTSA complaint #11520683 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Portland, OR
POWER TRAIN
The viscous coupler located at the carrier rear malfunctions and causes the front transfer case to crack open. Do to this causing a catastrophic malfunction and possibly causing a severe accident I feel this should be recalled. These vehicles are well known for the front transfer case issue after many months of scouring the internet I finally found out the cause of this issue.
NHTSA complaint #11514118 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesHouston, TX
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Journey. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle failed to start-up. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V373000 (Electrical System, Air Bags). The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
NHTSA complaint #11510324 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
