2012 Dodge Durango
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 640 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 9th highest complaint count among 25 Durango model years with reports.
Of the 2012 reports, 17 involved a crash and 32 involved a fire. 16 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Electrical systemNov 14, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with a 3.6, 5.7, or 6.4 liter engine and previously recalled under NHTSA Recall 14V530 or 15V115. The fuel pump relay inside the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM-7) may fail, causing the vehicle to stall without warning.
A vehicle stall increases the risk of a crash.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) will replace the affected fuel pump relay and related wire harness. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed beginning December 19, 2019. Vehicles that experience a fuel pump failure will receive an interim repair. Owners will receive a second notice when the final remedy becomes available. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 10, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V62.
Campaign 19V813000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakesSep 18, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The affected vehicles had brake booster shields installed under a previous campaign to prevent water from entering the brake booster and limiting braking ability. This recall is to verify that the brake booster shield installation was performed properly.
If the brake booster shield was not installed properly, the vehicle's braking ability may be reduced, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake booster shield, correcting the installation as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November10, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T59.
Campaign 17V572000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, alternator/generator/regulatorJul 10, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, Dodge Durango, and 2012-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The affected vehicles have electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) and are equipped with a 5.7L or a 3.6L engine and a 160, 180 or 220 amp alternator. In the affected vehicles, the alternator may suddenly fail.
If the alternator fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. There is also the possibility that the alternator may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the alternator and depending on the part number, will replace the alternator, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T36.
Campaign 17V435000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringDec 28, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured December 3, 2009, to September 1, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the wiring for the vanity lamp in the sun visor may short circuit, after having been remedied for a prior recall for the vanity lamp wiring. This recall is also addressing certain vehicles that have not been remedied under that prior recall.
The vanity lamp wiring may short, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealer will install clearance for sun visor wiring, protection from sharp edges, and replace the sun visor, free of charge. The recall began on July 28, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R71.
Campaign 15V879000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical systemFeb 27, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured September 17, 2010, to August 19, 2013, and equipped with a 3.6, 5.7 or 6.4 liter engine, and 2012-2013 Dodge Durango vehicles manufactured January 18, 2011, to August 19, 2013, and equipped with a 3.6 or 5.7 liter engine. In the affected vehicles, the fuel pump relay inside the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM-7) may fail, causing the vehicle to stall without warning.
A vehicle stall increases the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump relay with one external to the TIPM. The recall began on August 7, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R09. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 14V-530. Note: This recall has been superseded by recall 19V813.
Campaign 15V115000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, alternator/generator/regulatorOct 8, 2014
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Durango; and 2012-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured April 22, 2010, to January 2, 2014, and equipped with a 3.6L engine and a 160 amp alternator. In the affected vehicles, the alternator may suddenly fail.
If the alternator fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will replace the alternator, free of charge. The recall began on February 27, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is P60.
Campaign 14V634000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringJul 2, 2014
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured January 5, 2010, through December 11, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the wiring for the vanity lamp in the sun visor may short circuit, after a service repair is performed.
If the vanity lamp wiring shorts, there is an increased risk of fire.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and repair any damaged wiring, and install a new sun visor that properly routes the wire, free of charge. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is P36.
Campaign 14V391000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakesApr 1, 2014
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles manufactured from January 5, 2010, through September 8, 2013. The subject vehicles have a brake booster with a center shell that may corrode and allow water to get inside.
The water inside could freeze and limit the braking ability of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will add a water diverter shield to the booster after the booster has been tested to confirm it can hold an acceptable amount of vacuum pressure. If the booster inspection confirms an unacceptable loss of vacuum pressure, the booster will be replaced. Repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall campaign number is P14.
Campaign 14V154000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slipMar 4, 2014
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured October 11, 2011, through October 1, 2012. Under certain braking events, the Ready Alert Braking System (RAB) may result in the driver experiencing a hard brake pedal feel.
If the driver experiences a hard brake pedal, the driver may not push the pedal as intended, lengthening the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ABS module software, free of charge. The recall began on April 3, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number associated with this recall is P05.
Campaign 14V104000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingSep 29, 2011
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 MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 31, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 13, 2011, THAT ARE EQUIPPED WITH 3.6L ENGINES. THESE ENGINES MAY EXPERIENCE CONNECTING ROD BEARING FAILURE DUE TO DEBRIS INSIDE THE ENGINE BLOCK.
CONNECTING ROD FAILURE MAY LEAD TO ENGINE SEIZURE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE ENGINE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 18, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Campaign 11V487000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
347 reports, newest first. Show all
Steering, Electrical system, Service brakes, Sep 7, 2026, crash
The component or system failed or malfunctioned, is the accelerator, brakes, stirring and electrical. The car is available for inspection upon your request. The car is having problems coming to a stop and it is very difficult to control the vehicle because the steering becomes so hard when the power shuts down on the vehicle as I'm driving it. I think and believe that that poses a high risk of someone getting hurt or injured and then some cases perhaps death. the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. Yes the problem hasi been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. No, the vehicle has not been taken to an inspector, manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. Here is what my vehicle is doing. symptoms. While driving the vehicle the car experiences a sudden total power loss, the engine cutting off and restarting on its own, the AC cycling on and off strangely, and the weak acceleration combined with the vehicle jerking.
Electrical system, Aug 19, 2026
Vehicle was unable to start upon attempts in the morning. Was able to get it jumped and started. Less than 5 minutes later the dash lights along with radio lights began to flicker, the front windshield wipers activated, and the battery light came on. Immediately after the vehicle completely stopped, steering wheel got tight and hard to turn and a pole was barely missed as I attempted to maneuver the vehicle as close to the side of the road as possible. There was a complete loss of power, and I was stranded semi in the middle of a busy road during morning traffic. The vehicle was towed to out preferred shop to determine the cause of the loss of power and it was determined that the alternator was dead. The vehicle had the mandated Safety Recall T36 completed 15 months ago. The replacement has failed prematurely. The vehicle has been confirmed by an independent service center. It was inspected by the independent service center, but the incident was witnessed by Missouri Highway Patrol and our local police as they directed traffic around the stalled vehicle to ensure my safety. The evening before there were no indications of failure. The morning of the vehicle was unable to start and had to be jumped and then immediately before the failure the dash lights along with radio lights began to flicker, the front windshield wipers activated, and the battery light came on. Within seconds of these warnings the vehicle stalled and completely stopped. No police report was filed but my husband did notify dispatch of the situation to have police routed to direct traffic. Highway Patrol happened to already be on the scene as they were passing by and saw me.
Electrical system, Aug 16, 2026
We were driving on the interstate in northern Kentucky when the battery alert LED appeared on the dash. We exited the highway while looking up info on possible car repair shops to go to when the vehicle stalled on the exit ramp. We immediately engaged the emergency flashers but they failed eventually due to a completely dead battery. It was determined that the alternator was fried, unable to charge the battery.
Electrical system, Mar 5, 2026
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Dodge Durango. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 96,000. A Carfax Report was provided at the time of purchase. It was later discovered that the mileage on the Title was 162,000 when the vehicle was taken to the dealer for an engine issue, and upon receiving the Carfax Report.
Electrical system, Oct 21, 2025
Alternator went out and fried the pcm. I know certain vehicles were on the recall for this and mine was not one of them but odd that it happened anyways.
Electrical system, Jun 17, 2025, fire
The contact owned a 2012 Dodge Durango. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact opened the door and noticed that the interior of the vehicle was completely burned. The vehicle was unoccupied. The contact stated the exterior of the vehicle had no signs of fire. The vehicle was towed to the local tow yard. The vehicle was condemned as a total loss. In addition, the contact stated that prior to the failure, there was an unknown warning light illuminated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V879000 (Electrical System, Interior Lighting), which had a similar failure description; however the VIN was not associated with the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 186,488.
Suspension, Electrical system, Visibility/wiper, Mar 6, 2025
Has major issues …
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Nov 19, 2024
Electric problem
Electrical system, Aug 15, 2024, fire
While driving our 2012 Dodge Durango in town, we noticed the battery warning light come on and a hot smell coming from the vehicle. We were not far from home so we limped it back home to the garage to see what was going on. When we lifted the hood, there was a very overwhelming burning smell, our alternator was literally glowing red hot, and there was smoke pouring out from around it. We quickly put out the fire and disconnected the battery. Afterwards, we had it towed to a repair shop where it was confirmed the alternator failed as well as fried our PCM in the process. We paid for the install of a new alternator and PCM, however, the radio remained failed. Upon researching this scenario, we found there was a recall for this exact issue for the exact span of years and engine type, however, our VIN was somehow not included in this recall. That needs to be changed. The alternator issue could have been extremely dangerous for our family while in the car, as well as others around us due to what could have happened if the card didn’t make it home. We could have been stranded on a busy road way causing accidents while the car was engulfed in flames due to the alternator. Also, had we not immediately popped the hood at home to check the engine, the car could have burned down our home. We request that the NHTSA and FCA recall company address this issue and the potential for extending the recall to include other Durango VINs.
Electrical system, Mar 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Durango. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would intermittently stall upon depression of the accelerator pedal without warning. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it remained in their possession for four days; the contact was later informed that the defect was related to the battery. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V813000 (Electrical System) which was linked to the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Power train, Electrical system, Sep 13, 2023
While picking my son up from religion my vehicle suddenly stalled without warning. Thankfully I was pulling into the church parking lot and was in no real danger. I tried to jump start the vehicle with no success, but did notice the insulation on the jumper cables had started to melt. Towed to mechanic and was told the alternator had failed, in turn fried the battery. He replaced both, but then discovered the PCM was fried as well. Took it to the dealer here and was told faulty alternator again, which was replaced again, only to be told the PCM was fried. Now I'm into this for $3000 and I have no faith in the vehicle, the manufacturer, or the dealerships.
Power train, Electrical system, Aug 10, 2023
I bought this vehicle second hand and was not warned of any recalls. I started having problems in April of 2023. Windshield wipers would turn on by themself, car would randomly shut off. I brought to several shops and nobody could figure out why it was reading “high voltage”. The car then started having occasional problems shifting. I eventually got on MOPAR website to be made aware there were 3 recalls and alternator was one of them. I called musson patout dodge in new Iberia, LA and made an appointment to fix my car. On the morning of our appointment the car died in the road on the way to dodge and wouldn’t restart without a jump. I brought it in and over the son of 3 days the fixed all the recalls. On my way to pick it up they called and made me aware it would need a new battery I told them I will go replace it as soon as I get the car. Since I picked up the car the shifting problems have not stopped. I have had a code reading “implausible data from tcm”. I have had a mechanic TELL me this recalled alternator going out is what cause this tcm to go out and Musson REFUSES to take it in and even diagnose it without over $170 that I don’t have to spend anymore. This is consequential damage that dodge should be held liable for and they are giving me the most difficult time, it’s my only vehicle for me and my 2 kids and I cant even drive it anymore.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 24, 2023
I Came into dealership for scheduled service appointment on Apr 5, 2023 10:30:00 AM at EDWARDS CDJR OF OMAHA to get recall fixed on fuel pump relay and an oil change after receiving my 2012 Dodge Durango Citadel back my lights randomly starting blanking and my vehicle stalled and it wouldn’t start or turn over. So I spoke to service rep [XXX] at EDWARDS CDJR OF OMAHA 17950 Burt St and had the car towed back to the dealership that fixed on it EDWARDS CDJR OF OMAHA. I was originally told they didn’t have a loaner to lend to me so I can continue being a caregiver to my mother and transport her and my 7 children around until 04/21/2023 and that someone would call me that day to pickup a loaner vehicle. I called on 04/21/2023 about the loaner and they said someone would call me by midday to pick up a loaner. Now it’s Monday 04/24/2023 and I get a text stating 10 things are wrong with my vehicle in this link https://c.xtime.com/vkepCy2nkAoA2L4fXX including the PCM, which was more items then what was originally stated when they had inspected my vehicle on 04/05/2023 during the recall fix. So I informed them that, “ I will not pay for the pcm to be fixed because this issue is a result of whoever was the mechanic that was originally supposed to fix the recall fuel pump relay, so your shop has to fix it due to negligence on your mechanic's fault. I don't want to have to take anyone to court or give this issues to an attorney, this was sent to better business bureau because I have been left without transportation and facing economic hardship due to this situation.” Then they had their Service Manager [XXX] reach out to me over the phone, and he said that he spoke to three on-site master mechanic at the dealership and they all said the PCM had nothing to do with the fuel pump relay recall. I asked about escalating the issue and submitting an incident report to an higher up authority, he said he can’t. I asked again about the loaner he said there’s no loaner available. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Steering, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Apr 10, 2023
I’ll be driving down the road and my car just shuts off. Steering becomes tight, no engine lights come on radio is still playing no warning except driving down the road and all of a sudden you can’t steer. It’s very dangerous especially when it happens while you are driving around the curve with children in the car. My mechanic can’t tell me why this happens. No explanation. This has happen several times
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Dec 25, 2022
This family car had recall back in august fuel module for powertrain check engine light got it fix and few days later check engine turn on and has turned off since car slows down on freeway wont pick up speed and stall on me twice already with kids in car was going 65 and all sudden slow down wiuldnt pick up acceleration and turn off has run good since still having issues dealership says noting wrong with it
Electrical system, Nov 16, 2022
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Durango. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the battery warning light had illuminated, and the contact notices a burning plastic odor. The contact pulled over and opened the hood and saw black smoke coming from the alternator. The contact stated that he disconnected the negative battery cable; however, he stated that positive connector was extremely hot to the touch. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the battery, alternator, and the Engine Control Module (ECM) needed be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V435000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
Electrical system, Nov 7, 2022
While driving, the ignition switch may fail and think that the key has been removed. This results in a total loss of power and the engine cutting off. The result is very limited steering and braking capability. This has happen to me more than 20 times in the pass 2 months. This problem still continues to happen even after changing the recent fuel pump recall on August 12, 2022. No check engine light on dash as well. This is my family vehicle and I do carry my children in this vehicle. We have been put in so many unsafe situations. This can cause an accident. This is a safety issue and should be recalled.
Electrical system, Sep 29, 2022
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Durango. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number 19V813000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle would start and then immediately stall. The contact stated that multiple attempts were needed to restart the vehicle. The contact was informed that the failure was related to the recall. The failure mileage was 150,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Aug 30, 2022
My 2012 dodge durango sxt, rear turn signal stop flashing, front turn signal works, but not the rear .no turn signal or brakes lights
Electrical system, Service brakes, Aug 15, 2022
I just got a 2012 dodge durango 08/13/2022 I looked up the recalls on it and just trying to get it ixed if possible
Electrical system, Aug 8, 2022
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Durango. The contact stated that after stopping the vehicle, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The failure occurred approximately 60-seconds after stopping the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V813000 (Electrical System) however, the vehicle experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 136,496.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 26, 2022
My 2012 Dodge Durango has been experiencing reaccering issues associated with the tipm and fuel pump relay. The truck will stall, hard crank or simply not crank at all; leaving me stranded sometimes. This electrical issue also affects the fog lights, front lights, brake lights and turn signals; causing them to not work; putting me in danger of a collision on the highway or city street. This tipm and fuel pump relay have been under several recalls over the past 8 years and Dodge actually lost a class action lawsuit in 2015 in reference to this issue. They were ordered to replace these parts free of charge; labeling the parts defective. See link to tipm/relay article here (https://www.classlawgroup.com/chrysler-totally-integrated-power-module-tipm-lawsuit/ and here https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/closed-settlements/dodge-jeep-faulty-fuel-pump-class-action-settlement/ ) They’ve replaced both of these parts twice for me over the past 6 years. Now I am experiencing issues where the car won’t start for 20 minutes after I turn it off. The signal lights won't work correctly; and the foglights are totally inoperative. I’ve taken it back to the dealer for a diagnostic and also called the corporate office but no one wants to take accountability and acknowledge what the issue is. I have attempted to contact the lawyer who started the class action lawsuit to consult about this matter but he says he can't sue them again. I’m looking to see if I have any legal recourse or what my best course of action could be in order to hold Dodge accountable for replacing my tipm and fixing this defective part for good. Thanks! REPAIR TIMELINE: 2016 fuel pump relay 2017 Tipm 2018 Rewired the tipm, replace 2020, fuel pump relay - september 2022, fuel pump PS - I have a video of the dealer technician recording the issue with his mobile phone.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 31, 2022
Potential odometer rollback indicated per carfax, engine failure. Ohio department of public safety, bureau of motor vehicles did conduct a Ohio out of state vehicle inspection on 03/14/2022 @ BMV INVESTIGATIONS D-2@ 1583 Alum Creek Drive and inspector [XXX] has verified rollback. whereas she maybe reached at [XXX]. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Steering, Electrical system, Seat belts, Feb 1, 2022
Unknown
Electrical system, Jan 31, 2022
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Durango. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V813000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact called two local dealers and was informed that she would receive a call back whenever an appointment was available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.