Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV / MPV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile and spacious transportation
Key Competitors 2009 2010:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Murano, Mazda CX-9
Seating Capacity:
Available 5-seater and 7-seater configurations
Interior Versatility:
Flexible seating arrangements, 'Stow 'n Go' seating (optional on some trims)
Styling:
Distinctive Dodge styling, more car-like than truck-based SUVs of the era
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, diagnosis, internal components, timing, cooling, lubrication
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharging (if applicable), diagnostics
Transmission:
Automatic Transaxle (CVT for 2.4L, 4-speed Auto for 3.5L/3.6L), diagnosis, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, All-wheel drive (if applicable), axle shafts, differentials, drive shafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake
Suspension:
Front struts, rear independent suspension (multi-link), springs, shocks, control arms, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering column, rack and pinion, tie rods
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, glass, bumpers, frame structure, corrosion protection
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning system, refrigerant, components, diagnosis
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS system diagnosis and repair
Infotainment And Electronics:
Radio, navigation, Uconnect (if equipped), instrument cluster, power accessories
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system service
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, component testing procedures
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, module diagnosis
Bodywork And Cosmetics:
Panel removal/installation, door adjustments, glass replacement, trim repair
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, etc.), leak detection
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements
Diagnostic Emphasis:
Strong emphasis on diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Transmission Type 2.4L:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Transmission Type 3.5L:
6-Speed Automatic Transaxle (62TE)
Optional Transmission Type:
Not applicable for these model years based on engine choice
AWD Availability:
Available with 3.5L V6 engine (Active Full-time AWD)
Cvt Operation:
Simulated gear shifts on some models
Automatic Overdrive:
Standard on 6-speed automatic
Cvt Fluid:
Mopar CVTF (Chrysler CVT Fluid) or equivalent specification
Automatic Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent specification
Length:
Approx. 188.8 inches (4796 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.5 inches (1842 mm)
Height:
Approx. 66.6 inches (1692 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 113.8 inches (2890 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.7 inches (196 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 121.2 cu ft (3432 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 12.1 cu ft (343 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 37.0 cu ft (1048 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 68.6 cu ft (1943 L)
Curb Weight 2.4L FWD:
Approx. 3805 lbs (1726 kg)
Curb Weight 3.5L FWD:
Approx. 3934 lbs (1784 kg)
Curb Weight 3.5L AWD:
Approx. 4139 lbs (1877 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5610-5776 lbs (2545-2619 kg) depending on configuration
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
5-Star (Front and Rear Passenger)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4-Star
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Roll Mitigation
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for all seating positions
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for rear seats
Infotainment System:
Uconnect infotainment system available (e.g., 6.5-inch touchscreen, CD/DVD/MP3 player, SiriusXM Satellite Radio)
Navigation:
Optional navigation system integrated with Uconnect
Audio Systems:
Available Boston Acoustics premium audio system
Rear Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist system
Backup Camera:
Optional rearview backup camera
Bluetooth:
Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth connectivity available
Usb Port:
Available USB port for media playback and device charging
Remote Start:
Optional remote start system
Keyless Entry:
Standard keyless entry, optional Keyless Enter 'n Go
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles (9,656 km) or 6 months, or 3,000 miles (4,828 km) under severe driving conditions
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,280 km) or as needed based on inspection
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (19,312 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Every 100,000 miles (160,934 km) (Iridium type)
Spark Plug Replacement 3.5L:
Every 100,000 miles (160,934 km) (Double Platinum type)
Transmission Fluid Change Cvt:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,280 km); replace fluid typically around 100,000 miles (160,934 km) or based on severe use, consult manual for specific guidance
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,280 km); typically recommend fluid and filter change every 60,000 miles (96,560 km)
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles (160,934 km) or 10 years for HOAT coolant
Engine Oil 2.4L:
SAE 0W-20 (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 compliant). Capacity: Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Engine Oil 3.5L:
SAE 5W-20 (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 compliant). Capacity: Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter.
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant (Pink) or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 7.5-8.5 quarts (7.1-8.0 L) depending on engine and configuration.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (FMVSS No. 116)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent
Cvt Reliability:
Early CVT models experienced some issues with belt slip, torque converter shudder, and premature wear. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Engine Mounts:
Premature failure of engine mounts leading to increased vibration and noise.
Suspension Components:
Wear in front control arm bushings and rear shock absorbers.
HVAC Blend Door Actuators:
Failure of blend door actuators causing issues with temperature and airflow control.
Power Liftgate Actuators:
Failures reported on models equipped with power liftgate.
Water Pump Leaks:
Occasional reports of water pump leaks, particularly on the 3.5L V6.
Dodge Brand Positioning:
Chrysler's performance and muscle car heritage, transitioning to broader market appeal with diverse offerings like the Journey
First Generation Launch:
Introduced for the 2009 model year
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Chrysler LX platform (shared with Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Sebring/200), modified for crossover use
International Versions:
Sold globally as the Dodge Journey in North America and as the Fiat/Lancia Journey or Avenger in other markets
Manufacturing Plant:
Toluca Assembly Plant, Toluca, Mexico
Production Timeline:
First generation produced from 2008 (for 2009 model year) to 2020
Safety Awards:
Received Top Safety Pick awards from IIHS for its structural integrity in crash tests.
Family Vehicle Accolades:
Praised by some automotive critics for its family-friendly features and practicality in its segment.
Fuel Economy Epa 2.4L FWD:
Approx. 17 MPG City / 24 MPG Highway
Fuel Economy Epa 3.5L FWD:
Approx. 17 MPG City / 25 MPG Highway
Fuel Economy Epa 3.5L AWD:
Approx. 16 MPG City / 23 MPG Highway
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA emission standards for the model years.