Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2015 Dodge Journey
The 2015 Dodge Journey has a moderate level of owner complaints, with significant issues around the engine and electrical system. It has six recall campaigns, primarily focused on electrical and airbag problems. Overall, inspection is advised to check prevalent issues.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2015 Dodge Journey has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 554 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #18V332000 Cruise Control cannot be Cancelled NHTSA notice
- 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 #14V711000 Incorrect Label Information/FMVSS 110 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 135 complaints
- Electrical System 118 complaints
- Service Brakes 94 complaints
- Seats 90 complaints
- Unknown or Other 80 complaints
- Power Train 77 complaints
Of the 554 complaints on file, 30 report a crash and 9 a fire; across all 554 complaints, owners report 47 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine cover may detach
How to check: Inspect engine cover for secure fit and damage.
ABS and ESC module water intrusion
How to check: Check ABS warning lights and system operation.
Unexpected airbag deployment
How to check: Inspect airbag wiring harness in steering wheel.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for engine noises or rough idle.
Red flag: Loud engine knocking
- 02
Low-speed driving
What to check: Check steering responsiveness and ease.
Red flag: Difficult or unresponsive steering
- 03
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth engine power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitant acceleration or surges
- 04
Braking
What to check: Test for smooth and firm braking response.
Red flag: Squealing brakes or vibration
- 05
Parking
What to check: Assess steering effort at low speeds.
Red flag: Noisy or stiff steering
- 06
Stopping and idle
What to check: Watch for engine warning lights.
Red flag: Engine light stays on
- 07
Final check
What to check: Inspect for electrical system warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Are there any unresolved electrical issues?
- Have any engine components been replaced?
- Is there a history of steering problems?
- Were any ABS system repairs performed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service and maintenance history
- Previous owner history
- Accident history report
- Title and registration documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2015 Dodge Journey at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2015 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.