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 ↗2018 Dodge Journey powertrain problems
moderate 16 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Complaints
16
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
What stands out
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 7 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
No Start, After Flash And Or PCM Replace, DTC P0513 Invalid Skim Key Setting
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Remanufactured Transmission Assembly 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles: a) If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) 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 ↗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 2018 Dodge Journey powertrain complaints center on transmission degradation and failure, often starting with warning signs that escalate quickly. Owners describe metal shavings found in transmission fluid during initial diagnosis, followed by tapping noises, jerking during acceleration, and eventual complete loss of motive power. One owner had the transmission fail 107 miles from home in traffic after an independent shop flushed the fluid and replaced the filter, only to find metal debris and recommend a full replacement. Loss of power during acceleration is a recurring theme, with traction control warning lights appearing alongside the problem.
Engine issues include rough running, misfiring, white smoke from the tailpipe, and cracked cylinder heads requiring expensive repairs. Starting problems occur, where the engine cranks but won't fire, accompanied by red warning lights and rough operation when it does start.
AWD systems fail intermittently, leaving the rear axle without power while the front wheels spin on wet pavement—a dangerous condition on slippery roads. Transmission shift quality is poor, with excessive rev-flaring before gear changes and delayed downshifts requiring driver intervention. One owner reported the vehicle moving forward when shifted into reverse on slopes, and another noted the transmission dropping out of gear momentarily before slamming back in.
Supporting systems fail as well: dim headlights, inoperative rearview cameras, and electrical faults that dealerships cannot diagnose or repair. Most owners report multiple dealer visits without resolution, and many have paid for third-party diagnostics without getting lasting fixes.
Same Dodge Journey powertrain reports on nearby years: 2015 · 2016 · 2017
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission metal contamination and failure
Metal shavings found in transmission fluid and pan, progressing to complete transmission breakdown with loss of motive power and stalling.
When: Occurring between 42k and 107 miles driven post-purchase; failure at low mileage with accelerated degradation
Symptoms owners cite: Tapping noise under hood from transmission; Metal shavings in transmission pan; Loss of motive power during acceleration; Abrupt stalling in traffic; Vehicle unable to restart after stalling; No warning lights to alert driver
Codes mentioned: Transmission mechanical failure
Repairs/costs cited: One shop flushed fluid, replaced filter; another required full transmission replacement. One owner faced $197 diagnostic fee at dealer before seeking second opinion; eventual tow to specialist transmission shop.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls cited; owner noted same issue reported on 2016 Dodge Journey models.
Transmission slipping and jerking during acceleration
Transmission loses response and jerks during normal driving, particularly when merging or accelerating; traction control warning light and unknown warning light activate.
When: At 35-45 mph during acceleration; recurring intermittently; one case at 9,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle fails to respond when accelerator depressed to merge; Jerking and decrease/increase in speed; Traction control warning light illuminated; Unknown warning light illuminated; Hard brake pedal when starting; Touchy brake pedal while driving; Failure intermittent; sometimes resolves after restart, sometimes recurs
Codes mentioned: Traction control warning light, Unknown warning light code
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers and AutoZone unable to duplicate or diagnose. No repair completed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner cited NHTSA Campaign 22V723000 (Exterior Lighting), 18V524000 (Electrical System), 18V398000 (Back Over Prevention) but vehicle not confirmed part of recall.
Transmission fluid leaking
Transmission fluid leaking from vehicle; dealer deemed leak non-problematic and refused repair despite recurring leaks.
When: At approximately 15,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission fluid leak from vehicle; Leak recurred with additional fluid loss after first assessment
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer declined to repair, stating no failure with vehicle.
Transmission shift quality and jerking at startup
Vehicle shakes and vibrates at startup with traction control warning. Stalls abruptly when accelerating. Humming noise before stopping response.
When: At 5 miles on vehicle; another at 64,000 miles with deteriorating shift quality
Symptoms owners cite: Abrupt shaking and vibration at startup; Traction control warning light illuminated; Vehicle stalls without warning upon acceleration; Humming for five seconds then stopping response; Jerking motion during operation
Codes mentioned: Traction control warning light
Repairs/costs cited: One case recommended for tow and inspection but not repaired. Another owner reported transmission going out at 64,000 miles despite routine maintenance.
Engine running rough and power loss
Engine misfiring, running rough at speed, and losing power; white smoke from tailpipe; cracked cylinder head discovered.
When: September 2025 after coolant issues noted in 2023; occurring at 65 mph
Symptoms owners cite: Engine light blinking; Running rough at 65 mph; Whole car shaking from rough engine operation; White smoke from tailpipe; Engine dying at traffic light; Inability to restart and keep engine running
Codes mentioned: Engine light code (blinking)
Repairs/costs cited: Cracked cylinder head requiring $3,000 repair using used part.
AWD system failure and loss of rear axle power
AWD system intermittently fails to deliver power to rear axle; vehicle loses traction on wet or gravel surfaces while front wheels spin.
When: Multiple dealer visits required over time; ongoing issue
Symptoms owners cite: Rear axle not receiving power from transfer case; Front wheels spinning on gravel or wet pavement while rear wheels remain stationary; AWD system service light illuminated; Dangerous condition on wet or snowy roadways
Codes mentioned: AWD system service light
Repairs/costs cited: Four dealer visits without resolution.
Transmission shift flare and delayed shifts
Transmission rev-flares excessively before shifting; engine revs to redline during uphill acceleration before gear change; vehicle struggles to maintain speed.
When: Ongoing throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Tackometer revs to red zone uphill with vehicle still struggling to keep speed; Car revs up to 6 on tackometer before changing gears on flat streets; Delayed downshift requiring driver to release throttle to force gear change; Barely any power overall
Reverse gear failure on slopes
Vehicle moves forward in reverse when parked on upward slope or hill, requiring heavy braking and aggressive throttle to achieve reverse motion. Vehicle rolls backward on slopes when brake pressure not maintained.
When: Occurs on upward slopes and hills
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle moves forward when reverse selected on upward slant or hill; Requires heavy braking and aggressive acceleration to achieve reverse motion; Vehicle rolls backward on hills when brake pressure released; Vehicle rolls backward on flat surface if full brake pressure not maintained
Transmission dropout and harsh re-engagement
Transmission momentarily drops out of gear while cruising, then slams back into gear with harsh engagement.
When: During cruise on roadway
Symptoms owners cite: Car drops out of gear momentarily while cruising; Transmission slams back into gear; Described as dangerous by owner
Engine starting failure with electrical warning light
Engine cranks but does not start; red lightning bolt warning light illuminates when engine does start; engine runs rough and shaky with zero power to accelerate.
When: Ongoing since 2024
Symptoms owners cite: Engine turns over but fails to start; Red lightning bolt warning light illuminated; Motor runs rough and shaky; Zero power to accelerate
Codes mentioned: Red lightning bolt warning light
Motor and transmission mount failure
Faulty motor and transmission mounts causing premature driveshaft wear and jerking during gear shifts.
When: At approximately 40,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle jerks when shifting; Driveshaft premature wear
Repairs/costs cited: Motor mounts, transmission mounts, and related driveshaft components required replacement.
Rearview camera inoperative
Rearview camera fails during reverse operation; owner replaced fuse per manual but failure persists.
When: At approximately 9,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Rearview camera inoperative while reversing
Repairs/costs cited: Owner replaced rearview camera fuse per Owner's Manual; failure persisted.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner cited NHTSA Campaign 18V398000 (Back Over Prevention).
Dim headlights
Headlights significantly dim during night driving despite high-beam operation.
When: At approximately 9,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Headlights significantly dim at night; Dim despite use of high-beam setting
Repairs/costs cited: AutoZone unable to determine cause.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner cited NHTSA Campaign 22V723000 (Exterior Lighting).
PCM electrical issue
PCM malfunction with warning light; owner replaced alternator and battery, but later diagnosed with PCM issue similar to a recall (TBS Recall tv-u87-18) for which vehicle was not included.
When: Three months after alternator and battery replacement
Symptoms owners cite: PCM malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: Owner replaced alternator and battery; PCM issue emerged after.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner cited TBS Recall tv-u87-18; vehicle not part of recall.
Synthesized from 16 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 1 most recent
When in reverse on a upward slant or street or a hill the car will go go foward as if driving in drive position until you step on brake very heavily and quickly press hard flooring the gas pedal and excelliarator fast. When pressing brake on a hill and on flat surface if u dont keep full pressure on brake car will roll back
Had powertrain 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 powertrain problem on the 2018 Dodge Journey?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 16 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Based on the 16 complaints filed, powertrain issues most often appear around 28,324 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
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/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.