Is the 2012 Dodge Journey a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
The 2012 Dodge Journey can be a solid choice for those looking for an affordable and roomy midsize crossover, but be prepared for higher maintenance costs due to common reliability issues.
Get the full AI verdict — free
Pros
- Spacious interior and cargo capacity
- Comfortable ride
- Available AWD
Cons
- Below-average reliability
- Mediocre fuel economy
- Outdated infotainment system
Ownership at a glance
Common problems to watch for
- Transmission problems
- Electrical issues
- Brake wear and rotor issues
- Suspension problems
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (6)
The 2012 Dodge Journey has 6 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Engine And Engine Cooling (campaign 11V487000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Engine And Engine Cooling — Engine — Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2015 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured July 19, 2010, to May 26, 2015 and equipped with 2.4L engines. In the affected vehicles, the engine cover may detach fr…
- Electronic Stability Control (Esc) — Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured April 21, 2012, to April 14, 2015. In the affected vehicles, water may enter the wiring harness for the Anti-lock Brake…
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic — Fluid — CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 DODGE JOURNEY AND FIAT 500 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 24, 2011, THROUGH OCTOBER 26, 2011. SOME VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH CONTAMINATED BRAKE FLUID AND MAY EXPERIEN…
- Engine And Engine Cooling — CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHRYSLER VEHICLES, INCLUDING 200 AND TOWN AND COUNTRY MODELS, DODGE VEHICLES, INCLUDING CHARGER, DURANGO, GRAND CARAVAN AND JOURNEY MODELS AND JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE VEHICLES MA…
Real owner data from the CarsJudge fleet
1 2012 Dodge Journey owner tracks this exact car in CarsJudge.
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
Compare similar cars
This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.