The 2012 Dodge Journey is easy to drive, and it’s not so large that you will have a difficult time parking it. It’s an attractive vehicle that has the power you need whether you are hauling a full carpool, moving, or taking the family camping. For an SUV, the vehicle happens to be very fuel-efficient as well.
Key Features
The vehicle offers storage bins in the floor, which makes it easy to carry even more along with you. It has plenty of room for storage and passengers and a fantastic interior – you can choose fabric or leather.
Changes for 2012
The only real change made in the 2012 model is the addition of five different models from which customers could choose. The other models offer other features – the R/T and Crew, for example, have 8.4-inch touch screen audio systems.
What We Like
One of the nicest things about the vehicle is the size. It is right in between a compact SUV and a full SUV. This makes it easier to drive, but you will still be able to carry up to seven passengers with ease. It has plenty of room and a great style that makes it an ideal family vehicle.
What Concerns Us
You will find that there aren’t quite as many of the modern amenities and interior equipment in the vehicle as you might like. Additionally, there have been several recalls as noted below.
Available Models
There are several different models of vehicle available. You can choose the 2.4-liter in-line 4 engine, which offers 173 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM, 166lb of torque @ 4,400 RPM. It gets 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The FWD, AWD, and FWD/E85 have a 3.6-liter V, 283 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM, 260lb of torque @ 4,300 RPM. The FWD gets 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The FWD/E85 gets 13 in the city and 18 on the highway. The AWD gets 16 in the city and 24 on the highway.
Major Recalls
Over the years, the 2012 Dodge Journey has undergone several recalls. In one case, there was an issue with certain vehicles with water entering the antilock brake systems, which could cause the vehicle to lose stability. Another recall was to fix the fact that on some vehicles, the engine cover would touch the exhaust manifold, which could increase the risk of a vehicle fire. Rod bearing failure, and vehicles that were made with contaminated brake fluid were also issues.
Common Issues
While the 2012 Dodge Journey has relatively few complaints from customers, aside from the recall issues, they do have some complaints that have become apparent. One complaint was another issue with the brakes – premature wear. Others had issues with the engine not starting, shorted ignition coils, premature head failures, and stalls without warning.
