Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Dodge Journey
The 2012 Dodge Journey has a moderate number of recalls and owner complaints, particularly in areas like the electrical system, engine, and brakes. The recalls address significant issues such as unexpected airbag deployment and brake system contamination, indicating the need for thorough inspection. While data points to specific recurring problems, the evidence is limited, warranting a general but cautious approach during evaluation.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Dodge Journey has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 377 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #17V432000 Inadvertent Air Bag Deployment due to Chafed Wire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V273000 Power Steering Return Hose may Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V675000 Water May Enter the ABS Module NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V431000 Engine Cover may Contact Exhaust Manifold NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V550000 BRAKE FLUID NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V487000 ROD BEARING FAILURE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 116 complaints
- Engine 97 complaints
- Service Brakes 96 complaints
- Unknown or Other 48 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 44 complaints
- Power Train 36 complaints
Of the 377 complaints on file, 21 report a crash and 13 a fire; across all 377 complaints, owners report 24 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine cover detachment
How to check: Inspect if the engine cover is secure and undamaged.
Contaminated brake fluid
How to check: Check for brake fluid clarity and inspect the reservoir.
Water in ABS module
How to check: Look for water intrusion signs near wiring harnesses.
Power steering hose rupture
How to check: Check for any leaking fluid or loss of assist.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Observe any warning lights on the dashboard.
Red flag: Persistent check engine light.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or tapping sounds.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test the brakes for firmness and response.
Red flag: Spongy or unresponsive brakes.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Feel for smooth power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking motions.
- 05
Turning
What to check: Check steering fluidity and any noises.
Red flag: Difficulty steering or whining noise.
- 06
Hard braking
What to check: Ensure ABS engages smoothly without pulsating.
Red flag: Noisy or ineffective ABS.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag been serviced?
- Were there any steering repairs?
- Has the engine cover been replaced?
- Have there been brake fluid issues?
- Any electrical system updates?
- Are all recalls addressed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history records
- Recall repair receipts
- Previous owner's contact info
- Engine diagnostic report
- Proof of brake fluid change
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Dodge Journey at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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