The Good
The 2002 Durango offered strong performance, especially with the V8 engines, appealing to drivers who valued power. Its rugged design and truck-like capabilities provided emotional appeal. Practically, it boasted ample cargo space and decent value for the money, making it a solid choice for families needing a workhorse SUV. It also provided a comfortable ride for its time.
The Bad
The 2002 Dodge Durango's known weaknesses included relatively poor fuel economy, especially with the larger engines. Some owners reported issues with the front suspension and transmission. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Be sure to check for leaks and listen for unusual noises from the engine and drivetrain during a test drive.
2002 Dodge Durango: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.9L V6: Approximately 175 hp
- 4.7L V8: Approximately 235-245 hp
- 5.9L V8: Approximately 250 hp
- Horsepower: Ranged from 175 to 250 hp, depending on engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- V6: 14-15 mpg city / 18-20 mpg highway (estimated)
- V8: 12-14 mpg city / 16-19 mpg highway (estimated)
- 0-60 Times: V8 models could achieve 0-60 mph in around 8-9 seconds, while the V6 took longer.
- Towing Capacity:
- V6: Up to 3,700 lbs (estimated)
- V8 (4.7L): Up to 7,500 lbs (estimated)
- V8 (5.9L): Up to 8,950 lbs (estimated)
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included cloth upholstery, air conditioning, and a basic audio system.
- SLT: Added features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio, power windows/locks, and keyless entry.
- SLT Plus: Included leather upholstery, premium audio, sunroof (optional), and other comfort/convenience features.
- All trims generally included: Anti-lock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and available four-wheel drive (4WD).
2002 Dodge Durango Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2002 |
Make | Dodge |
Model | Durango |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Mexico |
Manufacturing City | AUBURN HILLS |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 4379 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6050 pounds |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 4.7 8 |
Engine Size | 4.7L |
Engine Cylinders | 8 |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $25,400 |
Invoice Price | $23,286 |
Delivery Charges | $625 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2002 Dodge Durango Have?
How long will the 2002 Dodge Durango last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for the 2002 Dodge Durango varied. While it generally performed adequately in frontal crash tests, side-impact protection was often less impressive. It's important to consult the NHTSA website (www.nhtsa.gov) for specific crash-test ratings for that model year.
Compared to modern vehicles, the 2002 Durango lacked advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, or automatic emergency braking. Its safety features were primarily focused on passive safety, like airbags and seatbelts, rather than active safety technologies designed to prevent accidents.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2002 Dodge Durango Prices and Market Value
2002 Dodge Durango Cost of Ownership
2002 Dodge Durango Fuel Efficiency
2002 Dodge Durango Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2002 Dodge Durango Recalls & Defects
Electrical System
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer
Engine and Engine Cooling
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:column Shift
Suspension:front:hub
2002 Dodge Durango Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2002 Dodge Durango Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Alternatives to consider include:
- Ford Explorer: A popular choice known for its versatility, but also prone to some reliability issues.
- Chevrolet TrailBlazer: Offered a comfortable ride and decent features.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: A more refined option with good off-road capabilities.
For similar capabilities with potentially better reliability, a later model Jeep Grand Cherokee (after 2005) might be a better option. If raw power and towing are primary concerns and fuel economy is not a priority, the Durango is a viable choice, but careful inspection and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are essential.
Ranks #1891 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 | (5.0★) |
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★) |
1891 | 2002 Dodge Durango | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Dodge Durango a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Colorado/Durango on March 20, 2023
2002 Dodge DurangoI have had my 2002 SXT Durango for 17 years with 165,00.00 miles on it and this baby is the vehicle I've owned, Living in Colorado you need four wheel drive this Durango is dominator in the snow. it still runs strong and does well at altitude. When the motor goes in it I will just put another motor in it. It's in great shape and I have replaced a lot of things on it, just maintaining.
Dan Horton on July 6, 2022
2002 Dodge Durango SLT plusI got my SLT Plus in 2004 at a Dodge Dealer in Jax, Fla! It was a 2002 model with 40,000 miles and was nicely taken care of! I still have it as of July 2022 and have 195,000 miles on it! I have been extremely happy with this vehicle and everything still works great and except for a few performance upgrades (K&N air filter system) custom wheels and such I have taken it on numerous road trips with no problems! I still get compliments on its appearance as most folks can't believe it's 20 years old and is not ragged out! I do my maintenance on or before times and don't see why it will not continue to perform well! If you can find a good used and maintained Durango then buy it! If I ever decide to sale I don't think people would be disappointed! You can't say that a lot for most 20 year old SUVâ€s! I average about 20 mpg between city/highway! With the high cost of new SUV's and gas prices I don't think I'll be getting rid of it any time soon! It's a Great Vehicle!!ðŸ‘🇺🇸😊
Dan Bear on May 18, 2020
First Car. Plan to be Only.I got my Durango "Sebastian" from its original owner, when it had 130k miles on it. Have traveled fully cross-country (CA to NC) twice since then. Got me thru an F-3 tornado on the return trip! Very reliable. Never had a breakdown. Doesn't leak oil. Easy to upkeep, work on and parts are relatively inexpensive. A simple treatment of Seafoam or Lucas "tuneup" gasoline treatment once every 3 months is amazing! Fuel economy isn't the greatest, but it has the strength and durability of a good farm truck. I typically get 18 mpg hwy (unladen) but 16 FULLY loaded! Very doable. I use it as a commuter, traveler, camper, worktruck, farm vehicle, semi-offroad adventure vehicle. Not the best size or weight for a prolonged adventure, but I believe it does better than most of its similar-sized competitors.
Phoebe7 on June 24, 2019
There is no end to my love for this vehicleI got it 2 years ago as the second owner. I am going to drive it until I can't anymore. It never lets me down. Ever. The uni body construction is a tougher than anything. I slid on ice last winter and ended up over the guard rail, flying through the air and landed in a field at the bottom of a hill. Only thing damaged was my running board on the passenger side. No body damage at all, and I put it in four wheel and drove it up out of there. I always have the power I need, it is beyond comfortable, and I will never get rid of it.
UGA DAWG on December 17, 2018
Most Reliable Vehicle I've Ever OwnedI've owned this vehicle for 10 years after purchasing from my daughter & son-in-law who owned for a couple years. Currently has 235k miles on it & running like a champ! in the past year I've replaced both main seals, brakes, misc steering components, & timing chain (all original except for brakes). It has "resided) in north Mississippi, NW Pennsylvania & now West TN & has made numerous trips from West TN to NW Pennsylvania. Body is still tight - don't have to slam the doors to close them. Would not hesitate to make a cross country trip in it if necessary. My favorite of all the vehicles I've ever owned!
Whoopdeedo on November 28, 2018
I loved this car.Never had a problem with this car and it had so much storage space. Loved the bright red paint job. Gas mileage not outrageous even when hauling. Loved the jump seats and real spare tire (even though I never used it). Loved the dual control temp. setting and CD and tape players.
Britcar on August 28, 2018
Reliable got me back and forth to workThis truck has 3 rows if you need the space comes with radio usb and auxiliary port a little tint on windows 4 door .
Dodge girl on August 18, 2018
Dodge durangoThis truck lasted me 14 years. I never had to put a lot of money into it. Great vehicle to own. 7 seats with plenty of room. Towing package towed all of our needs and then some. Sturdy vehicle. Light in the back so needed to weigh down for the winter.
MOPAR POWER on July 1, 2018
BEST SUV FOR THE ROADTHIS TRUCK IS VERY COMFORTABLE TO RIDE IN LONG DISTANCE AND PERFORMANCE IS RIGHT OUT THE DOOR AND THE POWER YOU NEED FOR OFF ROAD WHEN NEEDED.....THANKS DODGE FOR THIS YEAR OF TRUCK!
Shaggy187 on April 6, 2018
Smooth, powerful and dependableBought this truck 9 years ago with about 85k miles on it. It now has 153k and going strong! Had to make a decision last month, trade or repair and keep. I decided to keep. Put new brakes,( rotors, calipers, and pads) on the front, and replaced spark plugs and cleaned the injectors. Then put a new set of tires and changed oil and filters. She's as good as new! This truck has never used any oil or leaked a drop of anything! I feel totally confident driving cross country if needed. The 4.7 liter V8 engine is a beast! I have put a new performance intake and exhaust on it and run full synthetic oil and premium gas in it. It feels and sounds like a Challenger or Charger, but has the versatility that you expect from an SUV. In case you haven't figured it out by now, I Love This Truck!