Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Dodge Journey
The 2009 Dodge Journey faces notable challenges, evidenced by 1,433 owner complaints and 8 recalls. Primary concerns are electrical system issues and airbag defects, impacting safety and reliability. Buyers should focus on these areas during inspections, as they may require immediate attention. With limited positive owner feedback, considerations of repair history and careful inspections are recommended.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2009 Dodge Journey has 8 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,433 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V273000 Power Steering Return Hose may Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V047000 Air Bag Control Unit Power Supply Corrosion NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V373000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #10V658000 FRONT DOOR WIRING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09V118000 REVERSE WIRING STEERING COLUMN DRIVER AIR BAG NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09V082000 ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V528000 POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE/FUEL PUMP RELAY NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V247000 ENGINE WIRING HARNESS NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 767 complaints
- Air Bags 269 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 195 complaints
- Engine 149 complaints
- Service Brakes 106 complaints
- Power Train 104 complaints
Of the 1,433 complaints on file, 41 report a crash and 30 a fire; across all 1,433 complaints, owners report 34 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
ignition switch failures
How to check: Ensure ignition operates smoothly and check for key fob issues.
airbag deployment failure
How to check: Inspect airbag warning lights and recall completion.
power steering hose rupture
How to check: Evaluate steering response in cold conditions, looking for leaks.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Check for electrical system warning lights.
Red flag: Any persistent warning lights
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for abnormal engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Knocking or excessive vibration
- 03
City driving
What to check: Ensure steering feels responsive and smooth.
Red flag: Stiff or noisy steering
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Verify smooth gear shifts and acceleration.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 05
Braking at low speed
What to check: Feel for smooth, effective braking without noise.
Red flag: Squeaking or reduced braking power
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test electrical components like windows and locks.
Red flag: Unresponsive or malfunctioning windows
- 07
Final idle
What to check: Observe for leaks under the vehicle.
Red flag: Oil or coolant leaks
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition switch been replaced?
- Are there any unresolved airbag recalls?
- How often has the vehicle been serviced?
- Have there been any steering issues?
- Have all recalls been completed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall history
- Maintenance records
- Original sales invoice
- Title and registration
- Proof of previous emissions tests
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Dodge Journey at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2009 Dodge Journey? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.