The Good
The 2005 Durango offers strong performance, especially with the V8 engines, appealing to those seeking power. Its comfortable ride and spacious interior make it practical for families. The rugged design and commanding presence attract buyers looking for a tough, capable SUV. It provides a good value proposition for its size and capabilities, though reliability can be a concern.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2005 Durango include fuel economy, which is poor, especially with the larger engines. Reliability can be spotty, with potential issues including electrical problems, transmission issues, and suspension wear. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in areas with road salt. Careful inspection and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are crucial.
2005 Dodge Durango: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.7L V6: 210 hp
- 4.7L V8: 235 hp
- 5.7L HEMI V8: 335 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 210 hp to 335 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- V6: 16 mpg city / 21 mpg highway
- 4.7L V8: 14 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 5.7L HEMI V8: 13 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- V6: 9.5 seconds
- 4.7L V8: 8.5 seconds
- 5.7L HEMI V8: 7.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- V6: Up to 3,700 lbs
- 4.7L V8: Up to 7,400 lbs
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Up to 8,950 lbs
- Trim Level Features:
- ST: Basic features including cloth seats, air conditioning, and a basic audio system.
- SLT: Adds features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio, and power windows/locks.
- Limited: Includes leather seats, automatic climate control, premium audio, and chrome exterior trim. Optional features such as navigation, sunroof, and rear-seat DVD entertainment system were also available on the Limited trim.
2005 Dodge Durango Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| 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 | WINDSOR |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.3 L 6-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 3.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Dodge Durango Have?
Recalls have been issued for various issues, including potential problems with the fuel system and airbags. Long-term reliability concerns include the aforementioned transmission and electrical issues, as well as the potential for rust and engine wear. It's critical to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls and to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Earlier model years of this generation (2004-2005) tend to have more reported issues compared to later years.
How long will the 2005 Dodge Durango last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It offered standard features like power steering and brakes. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking were available.
Safety features included standard front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side curtain airbags were available as an option on some trims. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. Some tests resulted in 4-star ratings, while others were lower. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings were not consistently high, with some areas showing marginal or poor performance. It is important to research the specific crash test ratings for the 2005 model year to fully understand its safety performance relative to other vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Dodge Durango Prices and Market Value
2005 Dodge Durango Cost of Ownership
2005 Dodge Durango Fuel Efficiency
2005 Dodge Durango Safety Rating
NHTSA
2005 Dodge Durango Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Dodge Durango Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
Price-wise, the Durango was often competitively priced, particularly on the used market. If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota 4Runner is a better alternative, albeit often at a higher price point, even used. The Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon are similar in size and capability and might be worth considering. However, careful inspection and maintenance records are critical when considering any used SUV of this age.
Ranks #1883 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★) |
| 1883 | 2005 Dodge Durango | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Dodge Durango a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
JD3 on May 19, 2024
I bought the 05 Dodge Durango and was happy with myI bought the 05 Dodge Durango and was happy with my purchase. I liked the outside design but the interior was bland. If the seats were more comfortable, I would have tolerated the interior layout more. It had a nice storage bin behind the rear seat which was quite handy. It drives car like but the 3.7 six cylinder is thirsty. I've owned SUVs with eight cylinder that got better gas mileage! It was my first Dodge in a while and I was pleased. After 70,000 miles problems start to creep in. I traded it in shortly after my ac compressor locked. It was just too expensive to fix and my gut said it was time to move on. It earned its four stars but it's a fragile four stars
konnor xxxxx on April 27, 2023
holds up to abuse great for teensit is a great car and handled all the abuse i have put it through so far it has survived jumps massive potholes and has bottomed out on multiple occasions the only problems are the glitchy 4wd and dodge rust
Jason on March 12, 2022
Good dependable rideGood truck big dependable roomie go through anything lots of power gas hog thou fast love 4 wheel drive and all wheel drive pretty tough
Jac on April 9, 2021
Great Work vehicleThis vehicle provides me the comfort I need to get back and forth to work everyday. Rides smooth and handles well for a S.U.V. The engine seems to manage acceleration/deacceleration well.
Superstition ain't the way on August 12, 2020
Every car has its quirks but overall very satisfieIt was a very dependable pretty easy to maintain vehicle every vehicle has quirks but the clerks with my experience of the Durango were very simple but my favorite is the interior and the room in the luxury and the way are rides very nice car
Mainah on April 17, 2020
Very DurableIt's very safe family vehicle, very comfortable, good speakers, very good handling in winter conditions . The body rusts especially by the gas cap area and wheel wells.
Charles on February 16, 2020
Surprisingly Good...I bought the Limited version new in 2005 with every available option, and have to say that it's virtually been without fault from day one. I am considering selling it because I just picked up a 2011 Lexus 460, but have serious reservations about letting this vehicle go at current market prices. The same Lexus GX 460 from the same year would command almost 3 times the price of a fully outfitted Durango from that year. Granted, Lexus reliability is in a class of it's own, but this vehicle is "highly" underrated when standing against it's most common competitors. Compare any other US or European equivalent in terms of size (body on frame), towing ability, true 4 wheel drive capability, reliability, etc. and this vehicle is far closer to a Lexus than a Tahoe or Expedition when it comes to overall longevity and driving satisfaction. Yes, the Hemi is thirsty, but it provides effortless acceleration, and sounds just as strong as the day I bought it. Niggly little things like the driver's seat shroud, which can crack after a hundred-K, or the little plastic shield that covers where the seatbelt enters the seat frame can break over time - all things which don't quite make it a Lexus - but which are all very small repair details that can be fixed easily and inexpensively. On the whole, I see many of these vehicles being sold by original owners with 180 to 250k on them - that's saying something when most Mercedes or BMW full size SUV's of the same vintage are often on the market at half that mileage with 3 or more owners, and costing only slightly more (talk about depreciation). I think the Hemi Durango vehicle is by-and-large one of the best little unknown gems out there when it comes to a very reliable full sized body-on-frame SUV at an incredible price.
JD on December 15, 2019
Amazing VehicleReliable, Comfortable, Fast, Great Looking, what more do you need? This thing is a tank, goes everywhere and never skips a beat. I think this is the best kept secret for a great reliable family hauler.
KC'S PRODUCE on March 12, 2019
4 wheel drive acuator is junkUNDER POWERED TO BE A HEMI MY WIFES 4.7 HAS MORE POWER AND OUT PERFO9RMS 4 wheel drive actuator trying to kick in to low 4 wheel drive going down the HWY at 70 mph
Jayppstrong on January 13, 2019
Awesome for the fall & winter weatherThis car can go thru a snowstorm with no problems. Never had to be shoveled out or anything. Just takes off right from.parking spot even if snowed in
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.