Dodge Journey vs Ford Explorer
For 2008–2021 models, the Dodge Journey has 55.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 57.6 for the Ford Explorer. 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
about the same as the Ford Explorer
- 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 Explorer
57.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Dodge Journey
- Complaints
- 14,794
- Sold
- 2,567,665
- Recall campaigns
- 71
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016. Fewest: 2009 and 2019. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Dodge Journey or the Ford Explorer?
For 2008–2021 models, the Dodge Journey has 55.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Explorer has 57.6, 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 Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
Which Dodge Journey and Ford Explorer years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Dodge Journey: 2009–2010 and 2015; Ford Explorer: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016.
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.