The Good
The 2009 Dodge Journey offered a comfortable ride and decent handling, appealing to practical buyers. Its value proposition was strong due to its affordable price point and available third-row seating. Emotionally, the Journey provided a sense of security and space, making it ideal for family adventures. Some owners found its design appealing, with a rugged yet approachable aesthetic.
The Bad
The 2009 Dodge Journey had some known weaknesses. Reliability was a concern, with reports of electrical issues and transmission problems. Fuel economy was not a strong point, especially with the larger engine options. The interior materials and overall fit and finish were often criticized for being subpar compared to competitors. Potential buyers should inspect these areas carefully.
2009 Dodge Journey: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Inline-4: This engine produced 173 horsepower.
- 3.5L V6: This engine produced 235 horsepower.
- Horsepower: Ranging from 173 hp to 235 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.4L I4: Approximately 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway.
- 3.5L V6: Approximately 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times: The 0-60 mph time for the 2.4L engine was around 10 seconds, while the 3.5L V6 achieved it in about 8 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Towing capacity was limited; around 1,000 lbs with the 2.4L engine and up to 2,500 lbs with the 3.5L V6.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SE: Base model including standard features like air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system.
- SXT: Added features such as alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, and available SiriusXM satellite radio.
- R/T: Top-of-the-line trim with the 3.5L V6 engine, sportier suspension, leather seats, and premium audio.
- Available third-row seating, increasing passenger capacity to seven.
- Optional features included a rear-seat entertainment system and navigation.
2009 Dodge Journey Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Journey |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan D-49 |
| Category | Minivan W |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | TOLUCA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.5L V6 |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5 Manual/Standard |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-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 2009 Dodge Journey Have?
Another issue was related to the brakes, with some reporting premature wear and tear. The air conditioning system was also prone to failures. Recalls for the 2009 Dodge Journey included issues related to the fuel system and airbags.
Long-term reliability concerns included potential rust issues, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Owners reported problems with the suspension components, such as worn-out struts and ball joints. The interior materials were not very durable, leading to wear and tear over time. Given these issues, a thorough inspection and a detailed vehicle history report are highly recommended before purchasing a used 2009 Dodge Journey. Checking for any outstanding recalls is also crucial.
How long will the 2009 Dodge Journey last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited, with standard features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control. More advanced driver-assistance technologies were not available on this model.
Safety features included standard front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for all three rows. The 2009 Dodge Journey received mixed crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. While it performed reasonably well in some crash tests, it received lower scores in others. Specifically, the NHTSA gave it 4 out of 5 stars for frontal crash protection and 5 out of 5 stars for side crash protection. The IIHS rated it 'Good' in moderate overlap front tests, but 'Marginal' in side impact tests.
Optional features included a navigation system, but it was considered outdated compared to modern systems. Overall, the 2009 Dodge Journey focused more on practicality and affordability than advanced technology or safety features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2009 Dodge Journey Prices and Market Value
2009 Dodge Journey Cost of Ownership
2009 Dodge Journey Fuel Efficiency
2009 Dodge Journey Safety Rating
NHTSA
2009 Dodge Journey Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Dodge Journey Compare to Other Sedan D-49?
Ranks #1867 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★) |
| 1867 | 2009 Dodge Journey | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Dodge Journey a Good Sedan D-49?
Angela on August 27, 2020
Most comfortable car I've owned.Such a comfortable ride. Has plenty of legroom in front and back. Love that it has third row seating. It's very spacious and drives smooth.
Celise on April 4, 2020
Excellent vehicle for large familyI am a mother of 6, 5 boys 1 girl. Having 4 children in car seats. This vehicle accommodated my large family well. I had the fully loaded vehicle equipped with a tv/dvd player. So many compartments and storage spaces, perfect for a sports family.
Zbess on March 3, 2020
RecallI just bout this car in a auction called Chrysler's yesterday and they said my vin had two recalls on it one from 2011 and one from 2015 one of the problems was the ignition wiring and the other had something to do with the driver side they told me to take it to the dealership where they will have to go it free of charge even stated it on my vin report as well
clarice dodge on February 5, 2020
absolutely adored thisThis vehicle us amazing it is boujee yet classy like me it matches my personality and my lifestyle. I LOVE THIS CAR SO MUCH AHHHHH
DL on January 15, 2020
Best all wheel drive vehicle on our MN winter roadLove the color we chose-pearl surf blue, can plow through snow no problem, lots of interior room- seats fold down. Had some minor issues at first but was all under warranty. Love my Journey!
wjk9673 on December 6, 2019
Not worth all the headachesI have owned this car for 19 months and it's nothing but headaches! It IS great when it's running properly BUT it has issues starting. (Starter has been replaced) I am on my THIRD battery. It has a major battery draw, so guess have to be pulled if it's going to sit for more than 4 hours. I only have 145k on it and I have had to do a LOT of front end work and replace the inner transmission bearings and seal. I wish I would have NEVER bought a Journey.
Chris grandma on November 29, 2019
Owned the car for 8 yearsHave had on going starting problems for the past few years. Intermittently it won't start, leave a couple of minutes & then will start.Have had a new starter recently but the problem still occurs. Very frustrating.
Tammy S. on September 10, 2019
nice to driveLots of storage space leg room and very nice to drive cant wait to get another one. Hope you get another one in very soon.
Sandy on July 30, 2019
huge disapointmentI had this vehicle for 6 months and had invested a couple of thousand dollars already 🙁 the miles were low and looked nice but had issues with the shocks, control arms, Dry Jounce Bushing and engine and the car will not start at times 🙁 I wish I never bought this.
willy m. on July 27, 2019
is a good car for my family is comfortable.this car met all my needs,is comfortable,have a big trunk,is great compare to other cars then i have,my wife liked and all of my family to,and i used for evrithing go to the supermaket,the mall,visit my family then live verry far etc.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma