The 2019 Dodge Journey lasts around 200,000 miles, with some average brake wear and check engine light issues reported. AT $15,525 to $27,519, it’s a good value for a midsize SUV for shoppers on a budget, even if it’s outdated.
Is the 2019 Dodge Journey a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2019 is a decent year for the Dodge Journey, although it lags behind a lot of other newer SUVs. Owner reviews praise the dependable engines, low running costs, along with the comfortable seats.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are fairly basic for a midsize SUV, the seats are supportive, cargo space is also average for an SUV of its size.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread problems on the 2019 Journey. Avoid models from 2009–2017 since they have engine problems, while models from 2018–2020 are more dependable.
- Performance 7/10 – The standard four-cylinder engine is weak, while the V6 offers reasonable power for a midsize SUV, although it’s still not fast.
- Safety 6/10 – The 2019 Journey earns 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera, while optional upgrades include parking sensors.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is fine at up to 21 MPG, offering 430 miles of range from the 20.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $9 higher than average, at $249 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2019 Dodge Journey is less expensive than other midsize SUVs, although fast depreciation lowers its overall value score as it ages.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Dodge Journey?
- Consumer Reports says the 2019 Dodge Journey is dated and only a mediocre performer, but gets good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Journey at 4.1/5, enjoying the practical third row of seating, but doesn’t like the outdated base engine and transmission.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Dodge Journey a 3.7/5, praising the comfortable seats throughout the cabin, but owners don’t like the lack of driver assistance features.
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Dodge Journey Have?
Common problems found on the 2019 Dodge Journey include excessive brake wear, check engine lights, along with some stereo system issues. Overall, these problems are similar to other midsize SUVs from the same year, with average repair costs as the Journey ages.
Excessive brake wear is the most widespread complaint from 2019 Journey owners, showing up within the first 20,000 miles. The front brake pads in particular, tend to wear down quicker than on other SUVs, and have to be replaced. Changing out the brake pads costs around $150, while new rotors are an additional $400 if they’ve been worn down.
Check engine lights are another issue mentioned by some Dodge Journey owners within the first 10,000 miles. To diagnose the source of a check engine light, you will need to use an OBD-II scan tool to read the ECU for codes. Some of the most common check engine light issues include loose gas caps, along with some engine sensor issues.
Stereo system issues have also been reported on the 2019 Journey within the first 2,000 miles. There are software updates for the stereo system which improve its reliability. Many dealerships will install the software updates for free, while others charge around $50 for the labor.
There are no recalls on the 2019 Dodge Journey, which is better than other midsize SUVs from the same year. Having no recalls simply means there have not been any widespread issues or problems that affect the safety of the vehicle.
How Long Will the 2019 Dodge Journey Last?
A well-maintained 2019 Dodge Journey can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than other midsize SUVs like the Toyota Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to many competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $522 per year.
As a used 2019 Journey reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the exhaust manifold gasket for $200, the axle shaft seals costing $300, along with the strut bearings, which cost around $450.
It is very reliable no problems at all. I would recommend it to someone with a small family looking to upgrade to a crossover.
Yes, the journey is reliable. There has been no issues. It’s brand new but everything seems to be safe and reliable.
I have not had a problem with it yet. I would say it is built well and reliable. It warms up quickly in the winter which is great. It has an automatic start that works pretty far away which is also great in the winter
It is very reliable. I have not had any problems with it so far. I have never had it break down. Just routine maintenance has been needed.
The Dodge Journey is a very reliable car. I've never had any problems with it at all, and I've had one for approx. two and half years (had an older model before)
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is fairly basic, only offering a relatively small 4.3-inch touchscreen. Optional upgrades include a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen along with a premium sound system with a subwoofer.
Standard safety technology is worse than many competitors, and only features a rearview camera. The optional safety technology only includes rear parking sensors.
Is the 2019 Dodge Journey a Good Value?
Yes, the 2019 Dodge Journey is a good value since it’s cheaper than some competitors, although it’s not as up-to-date either. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $15,525 to $27,519, making it less than a Subaru Outback or Honda Pilot. When new, the price range was $23,895 to $35,545. Depreciation is worse than some other SUVs, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Dodge Journey?
There are three main models of the 2019 Dodge Journey offered, from the entry-level SE to the more luxurious GT. The Journey comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
SE is the entry-level model with:
- 17-inch steel wheels
- Automatic headlights
- Fog Lights
- Roof rails
- Heated side mirrors
- Height-adjustable driver’s seat
- 60/40-split second-row seats (slide and recline)
- 50/50-split third-row seats (slide and recline)
- Keyless ignition and entry
- Rearview camera
- Six-speaker sound system with a 4.3-inch touchscreen
- Auxiliary audio input
- Optional Connectivity package: Bluetooth, satellite radio, USB port, voice commands, and leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Optional Comfort/Convenience package: Upgraded cloth upholstery, power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Available Blacktop package: 17-inch alloy wheels, blacked-out exterior trim
- Optional Premium Group: Combines Connectivity and Comfort/Convenience packages
- Optional remote start and alarm
Crossroad is a step up, adding:
- Features of the Premium Group
- 19-inch wheels
- Touring-tuned suspension
- Leather upholstery
- Three-zone climate control with rear-seat vents
- Upgraded 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Optional remote start
- Optional heated front seats
- Available rear-seat entertainment system
- Optional premium six-speaker stereo system with subwoofer
- Optional navigation
- Available sunroof
- Optional Driver Convenience package: Rear parking sensors, universal garage door opener
GT is the flagship model, which has:
- Most options from the Crossroad trim
- Unique 19-inch wheels
- Upgraded suspension
What Engines Come In the Dodge Journey?
- 2.4L 4-cylinder engine: This is the base engine for the 2019 Journey and produces 173 horsepower at up to 21 MPG. It comes mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. It takes over 10 seconds to go from zero to 60 MPH.
- 3.6L V6 engine: Available in the higher trims, this engine ramps up the power with 283 horsepower at up to 19 MPG. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine, being more potent, improves the 0-60 MPH time, generally clocking it in around 7.5 seconds.
What Colors Does the Dodge Journey Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Dodge Journey?
The 2019 Dodge Journey is crafted with a blend of functionality and comfort, making it a suitable option for families and long drives. The vehicle seats up to seven passengers, and while the first two rows offer reasonable space and comfort, the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips due to its tighter legroom. One of the standout features of the Journey’s interior is its soft-touch materials that add a touch of luxury, even if it doesn’t rival some higher-end competitors.
The ride itself is generally smooth, with the suspension doing a commendable job of absorbing most road imperfections, providing a comfortable drive in most conditions. Additionally, the Journey offers a plethora of features, such as available heated front seats and a tri-zone automatic climate control, enhancing the comfort level for all passengers. However, potential buyers might want to note that while the Journey does offer a sense of coziness, it may not match the sophistication or plush feel of some of its contemporaries in the segment.
How Much Storage Space Does the Dodge Journey Have?
The 2019 Dodge Journey is designed with families and travel enthusiasts in mind, offering a commendable amount of storage space to accommodate various needs. Regarding its cargo capacity, when all three rows are in use, the Journey provides 10.7 cubic feet of space, enough to fit a few grocery bags or a stroller.
When you fold down the third row, the space expands to 37 cubic feet, which is enough for several suitcases, sports equipment, or larger shopping hauls. Maximize your cargo capacity by folding down both the second and third rows, and you’ll get a generous 67.6 cubic feet, ample room for larger items like bicycles, furniture, or bigger outdoor gear. In addition to this, the Journey features a plethora of small storage compartments, including an in-floor storage bin in the rear cargo area and a concealed storage compartment under the front passenger seat cushion, making it an ideal choice for those who need versatile and organized storage solutions on the go.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Dodge Journey was introduced for the 2009 model year, and was removed from production after 2020.
2015: There are no updates from previous years of the Journey.
2016: No changes from earlier years.
2017: The flagship GT model replaces the R/T.
2018: Standard third-row offered on all models.
2019: SXT model removed from the lineup, and more features added to the SE model.
2020: Final model year for the Dodge Journey, entry-level model renamed SE Value, V6 engine discontinued.
How Does the Dodge Journey Compare to the Competition?
The 2019 Dodge Journey is a decent midsize SUV if you’re on a budget and looking for something to get you from point A to B, but it’s very outdated compared to the competition.
The Kia Sorento is another midsize SUV, which can be found for around $3,000 more. Standard technology features are better in the Kia Sorento, while the Dodge Journey has a bit more space in the third row. We recommend the Dodge Journey since there are fewer engine problems reported.
The Ford Escape is a smaller SUV available in the same price range. The Ford Escape has more responsive steering on small streets, while the Dodge Journey has a more comfortable cabin for passengers. We recommend the Ford Escape since it’s more up-to-date, although both are worth testing to see which best fits your needs.
Do Owners Recommend the Dodge Journey?
It is a roomy vehicle but very slow. It saves on gas but it is very basic does not have Bluetooth but it is awesome in the rain and also in the snow.
It’s a reliable vehicle. The inside is spacious. There is third row seating, and the seats fold, so you can have extra trunk space. There’s air vents in for the back seat passengers. Two kids in car seats easily fit in the second row.
Yes it is reliable and easy to drive. It has a lot of space which is good because we are always hauling things around.
Yes, it's very reliable. It has 3 row seating for larger families and the V6 engine gives it just enough power while still getting good gas mileage.
It’s a great vehicle! I love it. The heated seats, built-in screen in the dashboard, and interior are great