CAMERA – REAR VIEW
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2018 Dodge Journey electrical problems
moderate Owners of the 2018 Dodge Journey have filed 61 NHTSA complaints about the electrical, typically surfacing around 20,000 miles at roughly $850 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
61
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
| Model year | electrical complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 Journey | 90 |
| 2015 Journey | 88 |
| 2016 Journey | 65 |
| 2017 Journey | 47 |
| 2018 Journey (this page) | 61 |
| 2019 Journey | 20 |
| 2020 Journey | 16 |
When does it fail?
Of the 61 electrical complaints filed for the 2018 Dodge Journey, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 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 61 electrical 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.
Electrical accounts for 27% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 12 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical 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.
LAMP - DOME
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗LAMP - DOME
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗"Washer Light On And Will Not Turn Off After Adding Washer Solvent."
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗LAMP - DOME
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2018 Dodge Journey's electrical system shows chronic failures across multiple subsystems. Backup cameras consistently fail—displaying black screens, blurry images, upside-down views, or flickering static—often becoming unreliable months or years into ownership. Radio and infotainment systems frequently freeze, lose Bluetooth connectivity, or shut down entirely; several owners report replacements under warranty that failed again within months.
Engine stalls without warning occur randomly regardless of weather or driving duration, sometimes with loss of power steering. Power windows and door locks operate intermittently or not at all; several owners report doors unlocking uncontrollably in wet conditions. Dashboard and interior lighting malfunctions include failure to illuminate, erratic dimming while driving, or remaining on with the engine off.
Speedometers display grossly inaccurate readings—sometimes 20+ mph off or showing speed while parked. Traction control activates on clear roads and won't turn off, severely limiting acceleration. Battery and charging system failures occur even on relatively new vehicles, with alternators failing shortly after battery replacement. Tailgate wiring issues create cascading failures affecting the backup camera, brake lights, parking lights, and wipers.
Many owners report repairs at dealerships that don't resolve issues, and notably, numerous owners state their VINs don't appear on recall lists despite having identical failures to vehicles covered under recalls. Dealers sometimes refuse to repair problems not listed as recalls.
Same Dodge Journey electrical reports on nearby years: 2015 · 2016 · 2017 · 2019 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Backup Camera Failures
Rear backup camera displays black/blank screen, blurry or distorted images, upside-down orientation, or freezes intermittently. Often appears as a camera icon with line through it. Owners report the feature becomes unreliable or completely non-functional, creating a safety hazard when reversing.
When: Varies; reported between 18,000 miles through multiple years of ownership; some reported sudden onset after working properly
Symptoms owners cite: Black or blank screen when reversing; Blurry or distorted image; Upside-down display; Flickering or static appearance; Camera icon with line through it; Intermittent operation
Repairs/costs cited: Owners cite rear wiring system replacement needed; door harness replacement mentioned ($800 minimum); some dealers claim no issue found or refused to address as not a recall for their VIN
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Some vehicles listed under recall (NHTSA Campaign Number not fully specified in narratives); however, many owners report their VINs not appearing on recall list despite identical issues; dealers refused repairs citing no recall coverage
Radio/Infotainment System Malfunctions
Radio and infotainment screen freezing, not responding to touch commands, losing Bluetooth connectivity, playing audio unexpectedly, shutting down entirely, or making sudden loud noises. Issues often persist after replacement attempts.
When: Reported at 40,000 miles and throughout ownership; some failures recurring months after previous repairs
Symptoms owners cite: Radio screen freezes or becomes unresponsive to touch; Bluetooth fails to pair or maintain connection; Sudden loud noise mid-music followed by shutdown; Radio plays automatically on startup but screen reads 'off'; Hands-free audio muffled or inaudible to caller; Screen display remains on with engine off; Radio goes off while driving
Repairs/costs cited: Owners report radio replaced multiple times for defect (up to 2-3 replacements in 3 years); dealers replaced units under warranty; some software reprogramming performed without resolution
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall mentioned (18V524000 referenced in complaint #8 for PCM, which some owners link to radio issues); recall notifications claim system is 'working as designed' despite malfunctions; no cost repairs done via dealer warranty
Engine Stall/No-Start Conditions
Engine shuts off without warning while driving at various speeds, sometimes with loss of power steering. Vehicle fails to restart or restarts intermittently. Occurs randomly regardless of weather, driving duration, or recent start.
When: Reported as early as 8,155 miles on new vehicle; recurring over weeks/months; one incident at 63,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls without warning while driving; Loss of power steering upon stall; Vehicle fails to restart or has delayed restart; No warning lights prior to stall; Warning lights appear after stall occurs; Stalls occurring multiple times over several weeks
Codes mentioned: P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 1)
Repairs/costs cited: One owner cited mechanic recommended power control module (PCM) replacement; battery and ground wire issues found and corrected by dealership in one case; some stalls reset themselves
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall NHTSA Campaign Number 18V524000 applies to PCM replacement; however, manufacturer refused coverage after 2 years from last recalibration despite recall stating free replacement; dealer advised to monitor and return only if warning light re-illuminates
Traction Control System (TCS) Malfunction
Traction control activates randomly on clear roads and will not turn off. Prevents vehicle from accelerating normally, creating hazardous highway conditions.
When: Reported at unspecified mileage; random onset
Symptoms owners cite: TCS turns on randomly without cause; TCS will not turn off once activated; Vehicle acceleration severely limited; Occurs on clear roads with no actual traction loss
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented in narratives
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Failure
Adaptive cruise control fails to disengage as intended. Vehicle loses motive power and windshield wipers engage unintentionally and remain on even after power loss.
When: Reported at 63,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: ACC fails to disengage; Windshield wipers engage unintentionally; Wipers remain engaged after vehicle loses power; Multiple unknown warning lights illuminate
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle towed; not repaired per narrative
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner related failure to NHTSA Campaign Number 18V332000 (Electrical System, Vehicle Speed Control); manufacturer not notified
Speedometer Malfunction
Speedometer displays inaccurate speed readings, sometimes off by 20+ mph, or becomes completely unresponsive. Dashboard and radio may also fail to illuminate or respond, creating a safety concern for the driver.
When: Reported as early as April 2022; one vehicle with 14,000 miles; affects vehicles throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Speedometer reads significantly higher or lower than actual speed; Speedometer reads non-zero speed while vehicle is at complete stop; Digital speedometer out of sync with manual gauge; Dashboard lighting fails or dims; Radio completely off despite engine running; Speedometer has inaccurate reading sporadically
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented in narratives
Window Control and Door Lock Failures
Windows fail to operate reliably, working only intermittently or not at all. Door locks become unresponsive via key fob and dashboard controls. Doors may unlock uncontrollably, especially in wet conditions.
When: Reported over 2+ year period; one case noted wiring harness issue mentioned as known problem searchable online
Symptoms owners cite: Windows work intermittently or not at all; Driver-side window non-responsive; Door locks do not operate via key fob; Door locks do not operate via dashboard controls; Doors unlock uncontrollably in wet weather or car washes; Doors unlock when rain exposure occurs; Doors remain locked or unlocked unexpectedly
Repairs/costs cited: Wiring harness replacement needed ($800 minimum cited); one owner's wiring became extremely hot when held together, creating fire hazard; door harness replacement mentioned as faulty product easily searchable online
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Action Number EA24003 referenced; owner received recall card 2 years prior; issue worsened despite recall awareness; no manufacturer assistance provided
Lighting System Failures
Headlights and tail lights illuminate unexpectedly or fail to respond to controls. Dashboard and interior lights fail to illuminate, remain on continuously, or dim/brighten erratically while driving.
When: Reported throughout ownership; dashboard lighting issues since April 2022 in one case; interior lights remained on for extended periods (up to a month) in another
Symptoms owners cite: Headlights and tail lights illuminate on their own; Headlights turn off unexpectedly while driving; Headlights switch to high beams unexpectedly; Dashboard lighting fails to illuminate properly; Interior lights remain on with engine off; Interior lights remain on while driving; Dashboard dim and brighten erratically; Third brake light out; Parking lights non-functional
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replacement mentioned in one case; rear wiring system replacement mentioned; software reprogramming performed without sustained resolution
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in some cases but did not assist; dealer warranty declined to cover in at least one case (20,000 miles)
Transmission Shift Hesitation and Acceleration Issues
Transmission refuses to shift or hesitates during shifting. Vehicle acceleration is limited or vehicle suddenly cannot exceed low speeds. Fuel gauge jumps erratically.
When: Reported within first few weeks/months of ownership; one case at 8,155 miles on new vehicle; acceleration issues recurred after PCM recall repair
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission refuses to shift from 1st to 2nd gear; Loud thump noise when shifting out of Park; Fuel gauge jumps drastically; Fuel gauge shows 30 miles when actually shows 60 miles in short distance; Vehicle cannot exceed 15-20 mph despite accelerator input; Acceleration hesitation after PCM recall repair; Vehicle shakes when idling
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer claimed loud thump noise is 'normal' but owner strongly disagreed; one owner had vehicle at dealer for a week with no update; after PCM recall repair, hesitation persisted
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer service claimed symptom was 'normal' and refused additional repairs due to loan being funded
Battery and Charging System Failures
Battery fails prematurely; alternator fails or ground wire not properly connected. Battery light illuminates or vehicle dies despite recent battery replacement. Vehicle cannot charge phones via USB ports.
When: Reported at 27,400 miles; one case 5 hours after battery replacement; ongoing issues in other cases
Symptoms owners cite: Battery light illuminates while driving; Vehicle dies on roadside despite lights remaining on; Vehicle dies shortly after battery replacement; Lights go 'crazy' after battery replacement; Alternator light comes on; Vehicle will not start despite fully charged battery; Key fob not recognized; vehicle thinks battery is dead; USB ports do not charge phones; Check engine light for poor battery connection remains on
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replaced at dealership; ground wire from battery to vehicle found not properly connected and corrected; dealership refused to provide rental during repairs despite warranty
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership replaced battery but did not diagnose alternator issue; manufacturer offered no assistance when contacted
Unintended Vehicle Systems Activation
Vehicle systems such as windows, traction control, climate controls, and air conditioning activate and deactivate on their own without user input.
When: Recurring issues reported over extended ownership; also reported on previous 2014 Dodge Journey model
Symptoms owners cite: Windows roll up on their own; Traction control turns off unexpectedly; Climate controls activate on their own; Air conditioning turns on by itself; Systems turn on and off repeatedly without user input
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented; owner has video documentation of occurrences
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Stellantis contacted; received no substantial resolution; same issue had occurred on owner's 2014 Dodge Journey with same lack of resolution
Tailgate and Rear Component Failures
Tailgate fails to lock properly, opens when vehicle is locked (security issue), and rear components fail including backup camera, third brake light, parking lights, and windshield/tail wipers. Multiple rear-end failures appear connected via wiring harness issues.
When: Reported at various mileages; issue identified as ongoing since 2012 model year (per owner research)
Symptoms owners cite: Tailgate will not lock; Tailgate opens when car is locked; Backup camera not working; Third brake light not working; Parking lights non-functional; Windshield wipers work intermittently; Tail wipers work intermittently
Repairs/costs cited: Bad wiring at tailgate hinge identified via YouTube research; service ticket dated 11/21/24 noted immediate attention required; dealer repair attempted but noted incomplete correction of related items
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Failure
Ambient air temperature sensor fails, triggering check engine warning light. Light may turn off on its own (system reset) but can reoccur.
When: Reported at 22,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates while driving
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnosed ambient air temperature sensor failure; light turned off the next day on its own
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer advised not to bring vehicle in for repairs if light turned off, advised to return only if light re-illuminates
Braking System Concerns
Vehicle exhibits braking issues including inability to stop fully, heavy vibration during hard braking, and unintended acceleration after releasing brakes. Engine shut-down during braking reported in one case.
When: Reported over multiple years of ownership; hard braking incidents rare but recurring
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not fully come to a stop at stop light; Heavy rear vibration during emergency/hard braking; Vehicle accelerates uncontrollably after brake release; Sputtering and jerking when foot released from accelerator (brakes seem to lock momentarily)
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented in narratives; tow truck driver experienced same acceleration issue
Fuel Tank and Gas Gauge Issues
Vehicle has difficulty filling gas tank; fuel pump may click or not engage. Gas gauge displays inaccurate fuel level or takes an extended time to show correct level after refueling.
When: Ongoing issues reported; one case noted post-PCM repair
Symptoms owners cite: Fuel gauge shows full when tank is clearly not full; Difficulty filling gas tank; Clicking noises while attempting to fill; Electronic miles-to-empty displays incorrectly after refueling (e.g., shows 115 miles after fill, drops to 70 miles after 7 miles of driving)
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented
Synthesized from 61 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 8 most recent
My vehicle has 27400 miles and purchased april 4th 2018. My car battery light came on while driving. Took to dealership where I bought it. They replaced my battery and told me I didn't need a rental car. I went back to work 15 minutes away. Got off in 5 hours after replacement picked up my infant drove home which is 20 minutes away. As I was driving 15 minutes into my ride my lights start going…
3rd brake light functions when doors are closed and reverse camera turns off when headlights are on.
The brakes sometimes feel that they won't stop. The rotors are getting some deep lines on it.
I received a card from NHTSA about two years ago on this issue possibly due to NHTSA Action Number: EA24003. I am still having this issue and now it is worse. 2 years ago, it started with the driver side window not opening intermittently. Then the door locks would not operate from the driver side controls. Now every window will not open and the driver door is not recognized by the car. When…
My back up camera isn't working and none of the locks work with the key fob. I bought my car from a car lot and it was a fleet car and it says all recalls have been fixed but my car hasn't been fixed at all and I don't know why. My car won't even charge my phone at all in either port so it has a big wiring problem. I have kids and grandkids in my car all the time and I can not see behind me…
While driving on the freeway some of the lights on my dash kit up and all the sudden my car would not go over 15 mph. I tried to turn it off and turn it back on and it continued to do the same thing. I did have my grandkids in the car.
Lighting bolt with parentheses came on along with off road sign. I was unable to accelerate past 20 mph and then I just rolled to a stop in morning traffic with my flashers on. I took it to dealership and they replaced my key battery since I told them i was also having problems lock and unlocking my car. I was told this should solve the problem. It did for about 3 weeks now lights back on car…
Rear back up camera in the rear view mirror is not functioning correctly. It will go black but illuminate a camera with a line through it. Makes in impossible to use to back up because the light on the mirror makes it extremely difficult to see in the mirror and the camera isn’t working to help either. One day it worked and the following day it didn’t. Also, the passenger airbag light will go in…
Had electrical trouble with your 2018 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 electrical problem on the 2018 Dodge Journey?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 61 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $850 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 17 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 14,000 and 45,023 miles, with the median around 20,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 14,000; a quarter make it past 45,023. 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 $850 for electrical 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 electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical 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/2018/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.