The 2004 Dodge Durango is a full-size SUV, part of the first generation (1998-2003, 2004-2009). It boasts a truck-based body-on-frame design, offering substantial towing capacity and passenger space. Key trims include SLT, Sport, and Limited. The original MSRP ranged from around $27,000 to $35,000. Its ruggedness and ability to haul both people and cargo made it a popular choice for families and those needing a capable vehicle.
The Good
The 2004 Durango offers a powerful V8 engine option for robust performance and towing (emotional appeal). Its spacious interior provides comfort for families, while its rugged design conveys a sense of durability. It also offers good value as a used vehicle due to depreciation (practical appeal). While not the most fuel-efficient, it delivers solid utility.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2004 Durango include fuel economy, which is poor, especially with the V8 engines. Watch out for rust, particularly in areas with road salt. Also, check the transmission for smooth shifting, as it can be a potential point of failure. Some owners have reported issues with the climate control system.
2004 Dodge Durango: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.7L Magnum V6: Approximately 210 hp
- 4.7L Magnum V8: Approximately 235 hp
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Approximately 335 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 210 to 335, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (Estimated):
- V6: 14-16 mpg city / 19-21 mpg highway
- V8 (4.7L): 13-15 mpg city / 18-20 mpg highway
- V8 (5.7L): 12-14 mpg city / 17-19 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (Estimated):
- V6: 9-10 seconds
- V8 (4.7L): 8-9 seconds
- V8 (5.7L): 7-8 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Ranging from 5,000 to 8,950 lbs depending on engine and configuration. 4.7L V8 around 7,500lbs, 5.7L HEMI around 8,950lbs.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: Basic features, cloth seats, standard audio system.
- SLT: Upgraded interior trim, power windows and locks, optional leather seats.
- Limited: Leather seats, premium audio system, sunroof, automatic climate control, and other luxury features.
2004 Dodge Durango Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Durango |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | TOLEDO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 7000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.7 L 8-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 4.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Dodge Durango Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2004 Dodge Durango include issues with the transmission, particularly rough shifting or complete failure. Owners have also reported problems with the climate control system, specifically the blend doors failing, leading to inconsistent temperatures. Rust is a significant concern, especially in areas with harsh winter conditions and road salt usage; check the undercarriage and body panels carefully.
Recalls for the 2004 Durango mainly revolved around potential issues with the fuel system, including fuel leaks, and airbag deployment. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to see if all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns center on the durability of the transmission and the propensity for rust. Electrical issues, such as sensor failures and wiring problems, have also been reported. While the engine itself is generally robust, proper maintenance, especially regular oil changes, is critical to prevent long-term problems. Some model years, particularly those with early production runs, can exhibit more problems than later models. Therefore, a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended before purchasing a used 2004 Dodge Durango.
Recalls for the 2004 Durango mainly revolved around potential issues with the fuel system, including fuel leaks, and airbag deployment. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to see if all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns center on the durability of the transmission and the propensity for rust. Electrical issues, such as sensor failures and wiring problems, have also been reported. While the engine itself is generally robust, proper maintenance, especially regular oil changes, is critical to prevent long-term problems. Some model years, particularly those with early production runs, can exhibit more problems than later models. Therefore, a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended before purchasing a used 2004 Dodge Durango.
How long will the 2004 Dodge Durango last?
With good maintenance, a 2004 Dodge Durango can reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 15-20 years of service, especially if diligent about repairs and preventative care. Key to longevity is regular oil changes (every 3,000-5,000 miles), transmission fluid services (every 30,000-60,000 miles), and addressing rust promptly.
Long-term weaknesses include rust, transmission wear, and potential electrical issues. Suspension components like ball joints and tie rod ends may require replacement over time. Neglecting these areas will significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan.
Long-term weaknesses include rust, transmission wear, and potential electrical issues. Suspension components like ball joints and tie rod ends may require replacement over time. Neglecting these areas will significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Dodge Durango offered basic tech and entertainment for its time. Standard features included an AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims offered upgraded audio systems, including a multi-disc CD changer and premium speakers. Navigation was not a common option.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, providing improved braking performance. Optional features included rear parking sensors, which aided in maneuvering the large SUV.
Safety features included front airbags and side curtain airbags were available on some models. Stability control was not offered on all trims in 2004.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally show mixed results. While it performed adequately in frontal crash tests, side-impact protection was less impressive, particularly in models without side airbags. It's crucial to check the specific crash-test ratings for the 2004 model year to understand its safety performance. Overall, the 2004 Durango lacks the advanced tech and safety features found in newer vehicles, emphasizing the need for careful driving and maintenance.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, providing improved braking performance. Optional features included rear parking sensors, which aided in maneuvering the large SUV.
Safety features included front airbags and side curtain airbags were available on some models. Stability control was not offered on all trims in 2004.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally show mixed results. While it performed adequately in frontal crash tests, side-impact protection was less impressive, particularly in models without side airbags. It's crucial to check the specific crash-test ratings for the 2004 model year to understand its safety performance. Overall, the 2004 Durango lacks the advanced tech and safety features found in newer vehicles, emphasizing the need for careful driving and maintenance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Black Clearcoat
Atlantic Blue Pearlcoat
Dark Garnet Red Pearlcoat
Light Almond Pearlcoat
Mineral Gray Metallic Clearcoat
Stone White Clearcoat
Interior Colors
Khaki
Dark Slate Gray
2004 Dodge Durango Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2004 Dodge Durango ranged from approximately $27,000 to $35,000 depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The Durango has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, fuel economy, and reliability concerns. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition (rust-free examples command a premium), mileage, engine (HEMI models are more desirable), and trim level (Limited trims are worth more). Regular maintenance records can also positively impact resale value. High mileage and deferred maintenance will severely reduce the price.
The Durango has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, fuel economy, and reliability concerns. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition (rust-free examples command a premium), mileage, engine (HEMI models are more desirable), and trim level (Limited trims are worth more). Regular maintenance records can also positively impact resale value. High mileage and deferred maintenance will severely reduce the price.
2004 Dodge Durango Cost of Ownership
The 2004 Dodge Durango is generally costly to own. Insurance rates can be moderate, but fuel costs are high due to poor fuel economy, especially with the V8 engines. Maintenance and repair costs can also be significant, considering the age of the vehicle and potential for component failures like the transmission. Long-term ownership costs are influenced by the need for rust prevention, potential major repairs, and the vehicle's overall reliability. This is not an economical vehicle to operate, so budget accordingly.
2004 Dodge Durango Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2004 Dodge Durango Safety Rating
NHTSA
2004 Dodge Durango Recalls & Defects
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
Recall date
2004-01-14
Recall no.
04v020000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With 3.7l and 4.7l Engines, THE Throttle Control Cable MAY Ingest Water and Freeze During Extended Cold Temperature.
Consequence
This Could Cause THE Throttle TO Stick IN THE Open Position and Result IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Throttle Control Cable. Owner Notification Began ON January 19, 2004. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. D02.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/Panel
Recall date
2007-03-09
Recall no.
07v092000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Some Sport Utility Vehicles, Under Certain Operating Conditions, AN Integrated Circuit IN THE Instrument Cluster That Controls Interior Lighting MAY Overheat.
Consequence
This Could Potentially Cause AN Instrument Panel Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Cluster FOR Damage and Replace IT Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 2, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-140.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. G07.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:12v/24v/48v Battery:cables
Recall date
2004-12-08
Recall no.
04v578000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Built With A 5.7l, 4.7l, or 3.7l Engine, THE Positive Battery Cable MAY Contact THE Front Suspension Upper Control ARM Mounting Bracket.
Consequence
This Contact Could Abrade THE Cable and Cause A Short Circuit, Which MAY Result IN AN Underhood Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Battery Cable And, IF Necessary, Reposition IT Away From THE Control ARM Mounting Bracket. THE Recall Began December 14, 2004. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. D40.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Electrical System:wiring:interior/Under Dash
Recall date
2003-12-12
Recall no.
03v528000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles, AN Instrument Cluster Circuit Board Capacitor MAY Overheat.
Consequence
This Could Potentially Result IN AN Instrument Panel Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Remove THE Capacitor From THE Circuit Board. Owner Notification Began ON December 17, 2003. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-992-1997.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. C43.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2016-05-24
Recall no.
16v352000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) Expanded THE Affected Population TO Include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 Trucks Produced AT THE ST. Louis North Assembly Plant. With This Change, Chrysler IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands, or "zone A." Additionally, Unless Included IN "zone A" Above, Chrysler IS Also Recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.c., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "zone B." Lastly, Unless Included IN "zone A" or "zone B" Above, Chrysler IS Recalling Certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles Originally Sold, or Registered, IN AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.
Consequence
These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. These Inflators MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-Term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling. AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify THE Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM Owners. Mitsubishi Owners Will BE Notified BY Their Company. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 27, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS S43. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 14v-7700.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date
2014-12-03
Recall no.
14v770000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2005 Dodge RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500, 2004-2005 Dodge Durango, 2005 Dodge Dakota, 2005 Dodge Magnum and 2005 Chrysler 300, 300c and 300 Srt8 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Geographic Locations Associated With High Absolute Humidity. Specifically, Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.s. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa ARE Addressed BY This Recall. Upon Deployment OF THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR Bag, Excessive Internal Pressure MAY Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger?s Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. FOR Vehicles That Were Sold, or ARE Currently Registered, IN Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and THE U.s. Virgin Islands, Owners Were Notified and THE Recall Began ON December 5, 2014. FOR All Other Vehicles, Chrysler Notified Owners and THE Recall Began ON February 3, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS P40 Expanded. Note: This Recall HAS Been Superseded BY Recall 16v-352. This Recall Superseded THE Passenger AIR BAG Portion OF Recall 14v-354.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2015-05-27
Recall no.
15v313000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2009 Dodge RAM 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge RAM 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge RAM 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge RAM 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300c, 300s, and Srt8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With A Dual-stage Driver Frontal AIR BAG That MAY BE Susceptible TO Moisture Intrusion Which, Over Time, Could Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify THE Affected Chrysler and Dodge Owners and Mitsubishi Will Notify THE Affected Raider Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began FOR Chrylser ON June 8, 2015. THE Recall FOR Mitsubishi Started ON June 24, 2015. Chrysler and Dodge Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Mitsubishi Owners MAY Call 1-888-648-7820. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS R25. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 14v817 IN ITS Entirety. Vehicles That Have HAD Their Driver Side Frontal AIR BAG Replaced Previously Need TO Have Their AIR BAG Replaced Under This Recall AS Well.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment
Recall date
2017-12-21
Recall no.
17v824000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM Vehicles Equipped With Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A List OF THE Affected Trailer Models IS Available AT: Https://Static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/rmisc-17v824-0103.pdf. These Extinguishers MAY Become Clogged, Preventing THE Extinguisher From Discharging AS Expected or Requiring Excessive Force TO Activate THE Extinguisher. Additionally, IN Certain Models, THE Nozzle MAY Detach From THE Valve Assembly With Enough Force That IT Could Cause Injury and Also Render THE Product Inoperable. FOR A Full List OF THE Affected Fire Extinguisher Models Visit: Https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/rmisc-17e062-5427.pdf
Consequence
IF THE Fire Extinguisher Does NOT Function Properly, IT CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury IN THE Event OF A Fire.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners Instructing Them TO Contact Kidde FOR A Replacement Fire Extinguisher, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 14, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde Customer Service Service Toll-free AT 1-855-262-3540, or Online AT Www.kidde.com and Click ON "product Safety Recall" FOR More Information. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS T82.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2004 Dodge Durango Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Dodge Durango is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Dodge Durango Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
The 2004 Dodge Durango competes with SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Trailblazer, and Toyota 4Runner. In terms of performance, the Durango, especially with the HEMI V8, offers comparable or superior power and towing capacity compared to some rivals. However, the Toyota 4Runner generally boasts better reliability ratings.
Features-wise, the Durango provides a decent level of equipment for its time, but some competitors, like the Explorer, offered more advanced features or a more refined interior. Price-wise, a used Durango is often more affordable than a used 4Runner, but the 4Runner's superior reliability may offset the higher initial cost.
The Chevrolet Trailblazer can be a less expensive alternative, but its reliability is also a concern. The Ford Explorer provides a smoother ride, but shares similar reliability concerns with the Durango.
Alternatives to consider would be a Toyota 4Runner (if reliability is paramount and the budget allows) or possibly a later-model Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon for increased space and potentially better reliability than the Durango, though at a higher price point. If towing capacity is critical, the Durango is still a strong contender, but be prepared for higher running costs. For reliability and fuel economy the 4Runner is a better choice.
Features-wise, the Durango provides a decent level of equipment for its time, but some competitors, like the Explorer, offered more advanced features or a more refined interior. Price-wise, a used Durango is often more affordable than a used 4Runner, but the 4Runner's superior reliability may offset the higher initial cost.
The Chevrolet Trailblazer can be a less expensive alternative, but its reliability is also a concern. The Ford Explorer provides a smoother ride, but shares similar reliability concerns with the Durango.
Alternatives to consider would be a Toyota 4Runner (if reliability is paramount and the budget allows) or possibly a later-model Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon for increased space and potentially better reliability than the Durango, though at a higher price point. If towing capacity is critical, the Durango is still a strong contender, but be prepared for higher running costs. For reliability and fuel economy the 4Runner is a better choice.
Ranks #1887 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★) |
| 1887 | 2004 Dodge Durango | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Dodge Durango a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
The 2004 Dodge Durango is ideal for someone needing a capable and spacious SUV for towing or hauling cargo on a budget. It's worth buying *used* if you find a well-maintained example with low mileage and a thorough inspection reveals no major issues, especially regarding rust and transmission health.
The HEMI V8 models offer the best performance but come with the worst fuel economy. Look for SLT or Limited trims for more features. Be prepared for higher running costs due to fuel consumption and potential repairs. If reliability and fuel economy are top priorities, consider alternatives like a Toyota 4Runner, even if it means spending more.
The HEMI V8 models offer the best performance but come with the worst fuel economy. Look for SLT or Limited trims for more features. Be prepared for higher running costs due to fuel consumption and potential repairs. If reliability and fuel economy are top priorities, consider alternatives like a Toyota 4Runner, even if it means spending more.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.