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full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2015 Dodge Journey powertrain problems
severe Owners of the 2015 Dodge Journey have filed 69 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 78,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
69
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 Journey | 17 |
| 2012 Journey | 32 |
| 2013 Journey | 28 |
| 2014 Journey | 31 |
| 2015 Journey (this page) | 69 |
| 2016 Journey | 82 |
| 2017 Journey | 28 |
| 2018 Journey | 16 |
| 2019 Journey | 6 |
2crashes
2injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 69 powertrain complaints filed for the 2015 Dodge Journey, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 69 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 12 model years of Dodge Journey in our records for powertrain problems, this one ranks #3 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Remanufactured Transmission Assembly 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles: a) If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) must be replaced as they are one-time usage. b) Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. c) Vehicles built on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. Only use the reman 62TE specified in StarParts for each model year - Only use R8210327A$ for 2014 - Feb 28, 2019 VF. - Only use R8453637
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Powertrain Diagnostic And System Enhancements
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Remanufactured Transmission Assembly 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles: a) If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) must be replaced as they are one-time usage. b) Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. c) Vehicles built on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. Only use the reman 62TE specified in StarParts for each model year - Only use R8210327A$ for 2014 - 2018 VF. - Only use R8453637A$ for 2
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Remanufactured Transmission Assembly 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles: a) If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) must be replaced as they are one-time usage. b) Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. c) Vehicles built on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. Only use the reman 62TE specified in StarParts for each model year - Only use R8210327A$ for 2014 - 2018 VF. - Only use R8453637A$ for 2
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2015 Dodge Journey transmission fails repeatedly and dangerously. Owners describe transmission pumps seizing without warning, forcing the vehicle to lose power at highway speeds or traffic lights—some at just 15,000 miles. The most common failure: the vehicle stalls mid-acceleration, or simply refuses to downshift, leaving the driver stuck in high gear unable to accelerate safely. One 16-year-old had the engine seize and smoke while merging into traffic. Another owner experienced three complete transmission failures in under four months; each replacement failed again.
The manufacturer issued recall 16V461000 (S44) for transmission pump seizure, but owners consistently report their identical 2015 Journeys were incorrectly excluded—they match the year, engine, drivetrain, and symptoms but don't qualify. Chrysler has known about differential and coupler failures since 2013 according to one owner, yet no recall was issued. Oil cooler housings crack and leak onto transmission electrical connectors, causing smoke and overheating. The transmission selector fails, causing vehicles to roll backward out of Park or refuse to shift out of Drive.
When dealers attempt repairs, they blame the transmission "learning" software, but software updates do not fix the problem. Warranty transmissions fail again within months. Parts are scarce, with one owner waiting months for parts that never arrived. Chrysler has collected failed engines for engineering analysis but issued no solution. Multiple owners reported near-miss accidents from sudden loss of power at highway speeds or inability to accelerate through intersections.
Same Dodge Journey powertrain reports on nearby years: 2012 · 2013 · 2014 · 2016 · 2017
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission pump failure/seizing
The transmission pump seizes, causing loss of hydraulic pressure and forcing transmission replacement. Owners report the pump fails suddenly during normal driving, sometimes after just 15,000 miles. The failure is associated with NHTSA recall 16V461000 (S44), though many owners report their VINs were incorrectly excluded from the recall despite matching vehicle specs.
When: 15,000 to 149,000 miles; some failures within first year of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle stalls while driving; Loss of power/acceleration; Transmission fails to respond to throttle input; Check engine light (P0740 code—torque converter clutch circuit); Vehicle becomes immobilized; Grinding/whining noise before failure
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission replacement required; owners cite costs of $1,500–$7,000+ for pump and transmission rebuilds. Parts reported as scarce. Oil cooler contamination requires replacement due to fluid breakdown.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 16V461000 (S44) issued for 2015–2016 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, select 2016 Journey, and RAM ProMaster vehicles. Many owners report VINs incorrectly excluded despite matching year/model/engine/drivetrain. Chrysler has expedited parts in some cases but owners report parts never arrived or delays exceeded reasonable timeframes.
Transmission shift jerking and hesitation
Transmission jerks violently when shifting between gears (especially Park to Drive, Reverse to Drive) or fails to downshift when needed, trapping the vehicle in high gears. Owners report the problem persists after multiple dealer visits and at-home filter/fluid changes. Some owners say the transmission is labeled 'learned' and dealers claim it will adjust, but the problem continues.
When: 8,000 to 105,000 miles; many reports early in ownership (under 1 year)
Symptoms owners cite: Violent jerking when shifting gears; Loud clunking/popping noise during gear changes; Vehicle refuses to downshift when accelerating; Transmission stuck in high gear (3rd or 4th); Hesitation and delayed acceleration response; RPMs rev but vehicle does not accelerate
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission fluid and filter replacement attempted by owners but does not resolve issue. Some transmissions replaced under warranty but problem recurs. Dealers attribute to 'transmission learning' software but software updates fail to fix persistent jerking.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers initially claim the transmission is 'learned' and needs adaptation. No recall issued for this failure mode. Chrysler has offered no manufacturer solution; warranty transmissions fail again shortly after replacement.
Torque converter and internal transmission component failure
Torque converter cracks or internal transmission components (levers, internal pump, clutches) fail suddenly. Owners report burnt clutches, destroyed internal parts, and complete loss of motive power. Multiple owners experienced failure shortly after initial transmission replacement.
When: 15,000 to 76,000 miles; some failures within months of transmission replacement
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission completely fails; All gears burnt/destroyed; Complete loss of power; Vehicle stalls and will not restart; Jerking and stalling at traffic lights; Loud noise before complete failure
Repairs/costs cited: Full transmission replacement required. One owner reported three separate transmission failures in under four months, requiring multiple full replacements.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Warranty covers initial failures but replacement transmissions fail again within months. Chrysler requested failed engines for engineering analysis in at least one case. No root-cause fix identified or recall issued.
Differential and AWD coupler failure
Differential or viscous coupler in AWD models fails suddenly, locking up the transmission and creating dangerous loss of vehicle control. One owner reports hearing a loud crack and lurch forward before the power take-off (PTO) breaks. Repair costs are extreme.
When: 52,000 to 120,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud squeaking or boom noise when accelerating; Vehicle lurches forward; Loud crack sound; Sudden resistance to acceleration; Clacking noise from drivetrain; Smoke from engine area; Gear oil leaking
Repairs/costs cited: Differential, viscous coupler, and power take-off (PTO) replacement required. One owner cited $3,500 for differential and coupler alone; another cited $5,000–$7,000 for full repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler advised one owner these parts are known to lock up and cause accidents. Owner states Chrysler has known about the defect since 2013. No recall issued. Warranty repairs delayed; parts delivery failed multiple times.
Engine seizure and failure
Engine seizes suddenly while driving, producing loud noise and smoke. One 16-year-old driver experienced complete engine seizure while on the highway, requiring replacement of engine, oil pump, and starter.
When: Occurs during normal driving; one incident at undisclosed mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Loud noise from engine; Smoke from engine compartment and into cabin; Oil smoke film on windshield; Burning smell; Engine ceases to run
Repairs/costs cited: Complete engine replacement required along with oil pump and starter. Chrysler requested the failed engine for engineering analysis.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Covered under powertrain warranty. Chrysler engineers investigated the failed engine but no root cause or recall issued.
Oil cooler and filter housing leaks
Plastic oil cooler adapter and oil filter casing crack and leak, pooling oil on the engine. Oil drips onto transmission electrical connectors, causing smoke and overheating. One owner reports recall S44 was issued for an upgraded part but their VIN was incorrectly excluded and they paid full price.
When: Mileage not specified; owners discovered after smoking
Symptoms owners cite: Oil leak pooling on engine; Smoke from engine compartment; Oil smoke in cabin; Smoke on windshield and wipers; Burning smell
Repairs/costs cited: Plastic oil cooler adapter and filter housing require replacement. Upgraded parts exist but are not failing. Full repair cost cited; owner paid out of pocket despite recall S44.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall S44 issued with upgraded non-failing parts. Some owners report VINs incorrectly excluded despite matching vehicle specifications.
Transmission fluid leak from pan
Transmission pan develops leak, allowing fluid to escape. Owners report fluid pooling underneath the vehicle. Leak causes transmission jerking, shifting issues, and eventual component failure.
When: 54,000 to 103,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission fluid leaking underneath vehicle; Jerking during shifts; Vehicle unable to shift properly; RPMs high but vehicle will not accelerate
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission rebuild or replacement required after fluid loss. One owner cited transmission pump failure due to lack of fluid pressure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued. Warranty may cover transmission replacement if fluid loss is discovered early.
Transmission selector/shift mechanism failure
Transmission selector does not accurately engage or hold gears. Vehicle shifts out of gear while in motion or displays incorrect gear on the dash. Selector lever fails inside the transmission pan.
When: 50,000 to 108,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle shifts out of gear while driving; Instrument panel shows incorrect gear; Vehicle in Park but shown as Reverse or Neutral on dash; Vehicle rolls backward when in Park; Difficult to shift out of Drive; Loud noise when switching from Reverse to Drive
Repairs/costs cited: Lever in transmission pan requires replacement. Motor mount may also be replaced if suspected, though issue persists.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers report no open recalls for this failure. No manufacturer solution provided.
Transmission loss of power and stalling
Vehicle loses power suddenly while driving, either refusing to accelerate or stalling completely. Often occurs at highway speeds or traffic lights. Vehicle may restart after turning off and restarting, but failure recurs.
When: 80,000 to 113,000 miles; some failures at lower mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle loses power while accelerating; Vehicle stalls at traffic lights; Vehicle stalls while driving at highway speed; Vehicle jerks and loses power; RPMs spike but no acceleration; Vehicle stuck at low speed (e.g., 20 mph max)
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission replacement required. One owner reported transmission pump failure after flushing and testing solenoids.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: VINs reported to manufacturer; many informed they are not under recall despite similar failures in same year/model vehicles. No assistance offered in most cases.
Unintended acceleration and loss of braking
Vehicle suddenly accelerates without driver input, or loses brake and steering response, creating collision hazard. One incident resulted in driver hitting rear of another vehicle and sustaining neck and back injuries.
When: 44,000 miles (one incident); occurred while approaching traffic light
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle accelerates without pedal input; Loss of braking response; Loss of steering control; Steering wheel locked
Repairs/costs cited: Cause not determined in reported case. Motor mount was replaced but did not resolve issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified; case number provided (64687641). No resolution or recall issued.
Engine stall and restart difficulty
Engine stalls unexpectedly during operation or while attempting to start. Vehicle may require multiple start attempts or may need jump-start. Brake pedal becomes hard and unresponsive.
When: 5–8 months into ownership; also at 92,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle stalls while turning corners; Vehicle stalls while in motion; Steering wheel locks when engine dies; Brakes do not respond when engine dies; Vehicle will not start on first attempt; Hard brake pedal when power steering lost
Codes mentioned: Check engine light
Repairs/costs cited: Crankshaft sensor replaced in one case. Software update attempted in another case but stalling recurred within days.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer offered software update (claimed to prevent future stalling) but vehicle stalled again 4 days later. Chrysler case opened but no solution provided.
Transmission inability to hold gear in Park
Vehicle does not stay in Park; shifts out of Park while parked or engine off. Transmission selector lever failures cause vehicle to roll or shift into Reverse when Park is selected.
When: Reported at various mileages including low mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls backward when in Park; Dash shows Reverse when Park is selected; Dash shows Neutral when Park is selected; Vehicle shifts out of Park while parked
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission selector/lever repair or replacement required. Manual shift lever may be needed as workaround.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued; no manufacturer solution identified.
Driveshaft detachment
Driveshaft bolts come loose and driveshaft partially detaches while driving, causing vibration and loss of control.
When: 91,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel vibration; Vehicle shaking while driving; Loose bolts on driveshaft
Repairs/costs cited: Driveshaft bolts require tightening or replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer contacted but provided no assistance.
All-wheel drive system malfunction
AWD warning light flashes intermittently and vehicle switches to two-wheel drive without input, making vehicle difficult to maneuver. Brake pedal becomes difficult to depress. Wheels become unstable.
When: Mileage not specified
Symptoms owners cite: AWD warning light flashes intermittently; Vehicle switches to two-wheel drive; Difficult to maneuver vehicle; Hard brake pedal; Unstable wheels
Repairs/costs cited: No diagnosis or repair performed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified but no assistance provided.
Synthesized from 69 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
The differential and the viscous coupler is what I'm having to replace now cause it is bad. The car is not that old and I'm going to have to spend around $3,500 to fix both of these parts. We could have been killed if we were driving the car, it would have locked up and caused an accident. Yes, the dealer said that it could lock up on us and damage other parts causing an accident. No, it hasn't…
2015 Dodge journey purchased new car wont start cant move gear shifter to nuteral or any other gear seems to be a bad problem with them I've checked google for solutions and apparently this is a real problem for this car as many complaints as I've read I've tryed everything I can to solve this problem
Had powertrain trouble with your 2015 Dodge Journey?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2015 Dodge Journey?
It's a meaningful issue. 69 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 44 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 22,000 and 91,000 miles, with the median around 78,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 22,000; a quarter make it past 91,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2015/Dodge/Journey.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.