The 2016 Dodge Journey lasts around 200,000 miles with some fuel system and motor mount issues reported. At $12,050 to $15,300, it’s cheaper than many other midsize SUVs and is a reasonable choice for shoppers on a budget.
Is the 2016 Dodge Journey a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2016 is a good year for the Dodge Journey, although it’s only a basic SUV, giving it a lower overall score than the competition. Owner reviews praise the comfortable interior, stereo system, as well as the dependable engines.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are simply average for a midsize SUV, the seats are supportive, holding up well over time, cargo space is also average.
- Reliability 7/10 – Reliability ratings are okay on the Dodge Journey with no widespread problems. Avoid models from 2009–2012 which have brake & electrical issues. Models from 2013–2020 are more reliable choices.
- Performance 5/10 – Performance is bad from the standard 4-cylinder engine, while the V6 is still only average for an SUV of its size.
- Safety 6/10 – The 2016 Dodge Journey is reasonably safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. Optional safety features include a rearview camera as well as parking sensors.
- Gas Mileage 6/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 21 MPG, giving 430 miles of range from the 20.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $4 cheaper than average at $235 per month.
- Value 6/10 – Although the 2016 Journey is a bit cheaper than average, it’s missing a lot of features found on the competition, making it a bad value.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Dodge Journey?
- Consumer Reports says the Dodge Journey is an outdated midsize SUV with low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Journey a 4/5 praising the comfortable interior, but doesn’t like the bad fuel economy.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Journey at 3/5, enjoying the room for 7 people, while owners don’t like the extremely weak 4-cylinder engine.
What Common Problems Does the 2016 Dodge Journey Have?
Common problems found on the 2016 Dodge Journey include fuel delivery issues, excessive vibration from the engine, as well as premature brake wear. Overall, these problems are slightly worse than some other midsize SUVs, with some average repair costs, too.
Fuel delivery issues show up on some 2016 Journey models at around 55,000 miles. There are some reported problems with the fuel pump along with the injectors. Replacing the fuel pump costs around $900, while new injectors are roughly $550 depending on local labor rates.
Excessive vibration from the engine is another complaint from owners at around 70,000 miles. The motor mounts have a lot of plastic and rubber in them, which wears out as the Dodge Journey ages. Replacing the motor mounts is a straightforward process, costing about $300.
Premature brake wear is reported by some owners in the first 20,000 miles as well. The front brakes in particular tend to wear out quicker than on other midsize SUVs leading to more noise. Replacing the brake pads costs about $250 for a set, while new rotors are an additional $600.
There are 4 serious recalls on the 2016 Dodge Journey, which are worse than issues found on other midsize SUVs. The recalls include a power steering hose which can burst, transmission pump failures, broken crankshaft sensors, as well as the cruise control system getting stuck on. Dodge will replace and update software on affected models to fix the issues.
How Long Will the 2016 Dodge Journey Last?
A well-maintained 2016 Dodge Journey should last around 200,000 miles, which is around 100,000 miles less than the top-rated Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than average for a midsize SUV based on data provided by Repair Pal, at $500 per year.
Since many 2016 Dodge Journey models on the market have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace the starter for $400, engine front cover gasket costing $475, as well as the brake master cylinder which costs $325.
I haven't had it very long, but so far haven't encountered any problems. The blind spots could potentially be a problem, but the windows in the side rear are more square than slanted, giving better visibility.
It uses too much gas and you have to refill it very quickly. It also is a bit big too handle for those who only like small cars.
Very reliable as long as you maintain it. Oil changes air filters and air pressure make all the difference. I also use mid-grade gas for long trips.
This vehicle does not have any problems in any that was manufactured at the dodge factory. This vehicle has a good rating.
It is very reliable and I have had only 1 recall. I take for service regularly and other than recall I have only had one other problem with electric window switch
It is a decently reliable car. The only issues we've had is the tires and how we need to put air in them often
It's really reliable. I haven't had any problems with my Dodge Journey at all or as of yet just the regular maintenance on the car and regular oil changes
Shifting of the transmission is a little tricky at times, it feels like it’s skipping gears, or sluggish at times
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good in the 2016 Dodge Journey compared to some other midsize SUVs with a standard 4.3-inch screen, as well as an optional 8.4-inch touchscreen stereo system. Safety technology is worse than average with an optional rear view camera and parking sensors.
Is the 2016 Dodge Journey a Good Value?
No, the 2016 Dodge Journey is a bad value since it’s very outdated compared to other midsize SUVs on the market. Blue book prices range from $12,050 to $15,300, making it cheaper than a Honda Pilot or Jeep Grand Cherokee. When new, the price range was $20,995 to $33,695. Depreciation is worse than average, losing 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Dodge Journey?
There are five models of the Dodge Journey offered for 2016 from the base SE all the way up to the well-equipped R/T.
SE is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry & Ignition
- Cruise Control
- 3-Inch Touchscreen
- 6-Speaker Stereo System With USB
SXT is a step up, adding:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Fog Lights
- LED Tail Lights
- Dual Zone Climate Control
Crossroad is next in the lineup with:
- 19-Inch Wheels
- Gloss Black Chrome Exterior Trim
- Leather Steering Wheel
- Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
- Bluetooth Connectivity
Crossroad Plus adds more features such as:
- Tri-Zone Climate Control
- Leather Seating With Cloth Inserts
- Power Driver’s Seat
- 4-Inch Touchscreen Stereo System
R/T is the flagship model which has:
- Unique 19-Inch Wheels
- Heated Front Seats
- Sport Tuned Suspension
- Perforated Leather Seating
What Engines Come In the Dodge Journey?
- The base engine is a weak 2.4L 4-cylinder which makes 173 horsepower while getting up to 21 MPG.
- An available upgrade is the stronger 3.6L V6, which generates 283 horsepower at up to 19 MPG. Performance is average, taking 7.8 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Dodge Journey Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Dodge Journey?
The 2016 Dodge Journey is a comfortable midsize SUV with seating for up to 7 people. The seats are better than many other midsize SUVs, offering a nice mix of support and comfort.
Passenger room is good in the first and second row with enough legroom for adults. The third row, on the other hand, is really made for young children.
How Much Storage Space Does the Dodge Journey Have?
Cargo space is similar to other midsize SUVs with enough space for 2-3 suitcases behind the third row, 5-6 behind the second, and over 12 suitcases with both rear rows folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Dodge Journey was introduced in 2009, and was produced until 2020, when it was discontinued due to declining sales.
2014: Minor new interior features including upgraded materials.
2015: There are no changes from 2014.
2016: No major changes.
2017: New top-of-the-line GT model which is above the R/T.
2018: Third row standard on all models.
2019: SXT model discontinued, new front bumper design.
2020: Final model year of the Dodge Journey, GT model and V6 engine discontinued.
How Does the Dodge Journey Compare to the Competition?
The Dodge Journey ranks average for a midsize SUV, although it’s boring and outdated. If you’re on a budget, the Journey can be a good option, although there are more advanced and powerful SUVs on the market.
The Kia Sorento is another midsize SUV which costs around $1,000 more. Technology is more up to date in the Kia Sorento, while the Dodge Journey has lower long term ownership costs. We recommend the Dodge Journey since there are widespread engine failures reported on the Kia Sorento.
The Dodge Durango is a larger SUV offered by Dodge, which is about $6,000 more expensive. Passenger room is much better in the Dodge Durango, while the Dodge Journey is easier to park in large cities. We recommend the Dodge Durango since it offers more advanced features and is better for people looking for an SUV built for a family.
Do Owners Recommend the Dodge Journey?
Yes. The keyless start is so convenient. No digging for the key. There is a lot of room, seating for 7. Because it is a higher vehicle, I sit higher than in a car so I can see better.
Yes, it uses fuel too quickly but the steering wheel is very easy to handle and I do not regret my choice of buying it.
Yes I have made several cross country trips in the journey and loved every minute on the road, even with two kids.
It is a phenomenal vehicle that is reliable when using AWD. This vehicle is fuel efficient with a luxury class look also sporty.
Yes, it was very affordable and comfortable. Seats 7 comfortably and is a great family vehicle! I have had it for 2 years and is great for short or long distance. I now have 40,000 miles and it is still like new with normal service.
Yes it is. Especially for families of 5+. The seats are comfortable and it's a smooth driving car. There are also two more seats in the rear that come in handy with guests.
Yes I enjoy driving my car, it's does great on miles on the highway. Nice family car real roomy. Back seats lay down to open up the trunk space
I don't really like it at all, horrible gas mileage, it has no features, but the stereo system is good