Is the 2018 Dodge Journey a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
C5.5/10
The 2018 Dodge Journey SE is best for those prioritizing budget and practicality over performance and reliability.
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Pros
- Affordable price
- Practical interior space
- Intuitive infotainment system
Cons
- Dated design and technology
- Lackluster engine performance
- Below-average reliability
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
19 mpg
Maintenance cost
$1,500/yr
Expected lifespan
12 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Transmission problems
- Electrical system malfunctions
- Air conditioning failure
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (6)
The 2018 Dodge Journey has 6 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Exterior Lighting (campaign 22V723000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Electrical System — Wiring — Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and …
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic — Foundation Components — Disc — Caliper — Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan and Jeep Compass, 2018 Dodge Journey, and 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have an insufficient c…
- Electrical System — Wiring — Front Underhood — Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wran…
- Exterior Lighting — Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Dodge Journey vehicles. The amber side reflex reflector assembled into the headlamp may not reflect brightly enough. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the…
Real owner data from the CarsJudge fleet
1 2018 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.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.