Dodge Journey vs Ford Escape
For 2008–2021 models, the Dodge Journey has 55.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 66.3 for the Ford Escape. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2008–2021), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Dodge Journey
55.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
16% fewer than the Ford Escape
- Complaints
- 5,500
- Sold
- 992,222
- Recall campaigns
- 23
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2009–2010 and 2015. Fewest: 2008 and 2019–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 76,719 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 75,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 64,800 mi
-
Pads and rotors
Typically around 22,200 mi · repair $330–$620
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 75,000 mi
Ford Escape
66.3 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the Dodge Journey’s rate
- Complaints
- 22,645
- Sold
- 3,416,165
- Recall campaigns
- 68
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2008–2010 and 2020. Fewest: 2012, 2019 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 56,500 mi
-
Head gasket and cylinder head
Typically around 85,000 mi · repair $1,620–$3,010
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 110,984 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 52,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 80,200 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Dodge Journey or the Ford Escape?
For 2008–2021 models, the Dodge Journey has 55.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Escape has 66.3, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Dodge Journey?
The most-reported problem on the Dodge Journey is body control and other modules, typically around 76,719 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Escape?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Escape is stalling and no-start, typically around 56,500 miles.
Which Dodge Journey and Ford Escape years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Dodge Journey: 2009–2010 and 2015; Ford Escape: 2008–2010 and 2020.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.