The Good
The 2001 Dodge Durango's key advantages include strong performance from its available V8 engines, providing robust towing capability. It offers a comfortable ride for passengers, and its design is traditionally truck-like and appealing to those seeking a rugged aesthetic. It can be a great value for those needing a powerful and spacious SUV without breaking the bank. For practical buyers, it's about capability. For emotional buyers, it's the power and presence.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2001 Dodge Durango include relatively poor fuel economy, particularly with the V8 engines. Reliability can be inconsistent, with some owners reporting issues with the transmission and electrical systems. Rust can also be a problem, especially in areas with harsh winters. Watch out for signs of neglect or deferred maintenance, and carefully inspect the transmission.
2001 Dodge Durango: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.9L V6: Approximately 175 horsepower
- 5.2L V8: Approximately 230 horsepower
- 5.9L V8: Approximately 245 horsepower
- Horsepower: Ranging from 175 hp (V6) to 245 hp (5.9L V8).
- Fuel Economy:
- V6: Around 14-18 mpg city / 18-22 mpg highway
- V8s: Around 12-16 mpg city / 16-20 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: V8 models could achieve 0-60 mph in approximately 8-9 seconds, while the V6 was significantly slower.
- Towing Capacity: Ranging from 5,000 to 7,500 pounds depending on engine and configuration.
- Trim Level Features:
- Base: Included standard features like cloth seats, basic audio system, and limited power features.
- SLT: Added features like premium cloth seats, upgraded audio system, alloy wheels, and more power options.
- SLT Plus: Typically included leather seats, premium audio system, sunroof, and other luxury features. Also added things like heated mirrors, and upgraded interior trim.
2001 Dodge Durango Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2001 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Durango |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2WD |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SALTILLO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4408 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6050 pounds |
| Overall Height | 71.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 193.30 inches |
| Overall Width | 71.50 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 115.90 inches |
| Standard Seating | 6 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.9-L V-8 OHV 16V |
| Engine Size | 5.9L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 2-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $26,650 |
| Invoice Price | $24,399 |
| Delivery Charges | $600 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2001 Dodge Durango Have?
How long will the 2001 Dodge Durango last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally decent for frontal impacts, but side-impact protection was not as strong. Optional features included things like power windows and locks, cruise control, and air conditioning. The available 4WD system enhanced off-road capability. For the time, the Durango was adequately equipped, but it lacks modern technology found in newer vehicles. Most of the "tech" features related to comfort and convenience rather than advanced driver-assistance systems. For a vehicle of its age, focusing on the condition of mechanical components and safety features (like brakes and tires) is more important than expecting advanced technology. Keep in mind that technology like Bluetooth connectivity or smartphone integration would need to be added aftermarket.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2001 Dodge Durango Prices and Market Value
2001 Dodge Durango Cost of Ownership
2001 Dodge Durango Fuel Efficiency
2001 Dodge Durango Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2001 Dodge Durango Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2001 Dodge Durango Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2001 Dodge Durango Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Ranks #1892 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1892 | 2001 Dodge Durango | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Dodge Durango a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
BJ Smith on January 13, 2024
Took good care and maintenance of it and it showsPurchased new 2001 and I still own it. The best vehicle I ever owned. I still drive it. Four wheel drive gets us through snow storms Truck was well taken care of and it.
George Vandewater on June 8, 2023
Over 400,000 milesI still own a 2001 Durango SLT. This suv has been the family unit and eventually a very strong work vehicle. As of today it has 404,656 miles on it and starts and runs smooth. All original but only problem is transmission has finally dropped into “limp mode†which needs immediate attention but everything else has been maintained in as best as I could keep it mechanically speaking. Very durable suv and have always felt safe in it because it just rides and handles really strong. I think the 4.7 motor is a workhorse proven by a lot of owners out there that I've read about at least but that I've witnessed. Longest haul was from Los Angeles to Colorado Springs with a 21 ft mallard trailer and no worries at all with the altitude. Wish I could afford a new one. All makes have problems and recalls but Dodge and Lee Iacocca seem to have spent some time on the first gens. Thank you
Doodle_Shop on October 9, 2020
20 years old and still running strong!Needed a 4wd vehicle for Duluth winter roads and this one fit the budget at $1,000 with just under 150k miles. Several problems were fixed including replacement of the serpentine belt, ac condenser, and tie rod ends and main coolant hose. Cost about $300 to get it in decent reliable condition. There's a lot of rust on her since it's a dodge and it lived it's entire life in wisconsin, have to expect that. Seats 8 passengers but thank God I only have two kids, and they're related to me so they don't have friends 🙂 I fearlessly travel from Oshkosh to Duluth and back regularly with this truck, I've owned it for about 3 months and put almost 10k on it already without any new issues beyond a broken windshield which a woman caused and was no fault of the Dodges haha
Dg on January 3, 2020
One of the best cars I have ever owned I bought itI bought this car with 186000 miles on it and it currently has 270,000 on it and I've spent $200 in maintenance parts and it will also outrun most anything that it runs up on going down the road
LadyFury on August 27, 2019
The most problematic vehicle I've ever ownedThis suv gave me nothing but issues after the first 2 years of owning it. The truck would randomly die on me while driving. It didn't have much power for being a V-8 in my opinion. The A/C went out several times. The tailgate's hydraulics went out twice. It only had 70,000 miles on it when I got rid of it and the transmission was already slipping. I spent more money fixing it and putting out fires than what it was worth I'm sure.
Bill on April 6, 2019
Love the DurangoI just purchased my 2001 Durango with only 57,000 miles. Just needed to replace a few minor things since its old but it runs great. It's is a great value.
G Fern Air on January 29, 2019
The worst car ever owned.All good except the 4.7 L engine the worst.It was discontinued for ten years until 2014 a 4.7 evolution engine came back. No recalls on engine 2001,bad over sight for the aluminun heads would drop the valve seats and would loose compresion just like the 5.7 Hemis. Valve seat should be wedged on aluminum heads to keep from poping out from aluminun heads.Vlv seats and heads are dissimilar metals two different heat expansion point.Never buy a dodge again.
Gedygol dodge forever on January 11, 2019
Most reliable car I owned.This car met all of my needs. It has plenty of legroom in the front and back, the ride is great compare to other cars I tested.
Butch on November 1, 2018
Great SUVI love this vehicle. This 2001 Dodge Durango has been very dependable for many years. This was one of my greater vehicle purchases I have ever made.
[email protected] on November 1, 2018
Built like a tank. Durable and rugged.Cutting edge for that year 2001. Wife. Loves driving because of the power and looks. This is 3rd Durango and by far the best. When I bought it several things were wrong. Brake/abs light on, also the transfer Case was not working. I fixed myself and saved $$$$.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.