Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Dodge Journey
The 2013 Dodge Journey has moderate owner complaints and several recalls, suggesting some reliability issues. Key concerns include the electrical system and engine, with recalls affecting air bags, steering, ABS/ESC, and engine components. While this vehicle can be a reasonable purchase, thorough inspection is advised.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Dodge Journey has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 353 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
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 73 complaints
- Engine 72 complaints
- Service Brakes 61 complaints
- Seats 58 complaints
- Air Bags 44 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 44 complaints
Of the 353 complaints on file, 19 report a crash and 9 a fire; across all 353 complaints, owners report 32 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Wiring harness short circuit
How to check: Inspect wiring for wear near steering column.
Engine cover detaches
How to check: Examine engine cover stability and attachment.
Airbag unexpected deployment
How to check: Check if airbag recall repair completed.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or persistent ticking sounds
- 02
First acceleration
What to check: Notice any hesitation or power loss.
Red flag: Vehicle struggles to accelerate smoothly
- 03
During braking
What to check: Feel for shuddering or vibrations.
Red flag: Shaking or grinding noises during braking
- 04
Cornering
What to check: Assess steering response and feel.
Red flag: Loose or heavy steering feel
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe stability and straight tracking.
Red flag: Vehicle pulls or vibrates at high speeds
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Any issues with the electrical system?
- Recent maintenance on the brakes?
- Have there been any engine repairs?
- Any issues with steering performance?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Detailed service records
- Recall repair verification
- Vehicle history report
- Warranty documentation if applicable
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Dodge Journey at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2013 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.