Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV (CUV)
Competitors 2009 2010:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Murano, Mazda CX-9.
Vehicle Strengths:
Available seating for up to seven passengers, versatile interior space, comfortable ride, availability of all-wheel drive (AWD).
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (FWD/AWD), manual transmission (if applicable), drive shafts, differentials, CV joints.
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, ESC), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows/locks, climate control, audio system, body control modules (BCM).
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, liftgate, glass, seats, HVAC components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including torque specifications, special tools, and component removal/installation.
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including component specifications and tolerances.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and complete component overhauls.
Engine 2 4L:
2.4L DOHC 16V Inline-4 (GEMA engine family), 173 hp @ 6000 rpm, 166 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm.
Engine 3 5L:
3.5L SOHC 24V V6 (Chrysler Pentastar successor, prior to Pentastar branding in some markets), 235 hp @ 6400 rpm, 253 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate for 2009-2010, using prevalent early specifications).
Torque Range:
166 - 253 lb-ft
Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission 2 4L:
6-speed Automatic Transaxle (4-speed automatic for early production 2.4L in some markets, primarily North America)
Transmission 3 5L:
6-speed Automatic Transaxle
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Transmission Fluid Spec 6Spd:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification, e.g., Mopar 68044340AA)
Transmission Fluid Spec 4Spd:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification, e.g., Mopar 68044340AA)
Length:
188.8 inches (4795 mm)
Width:
72.5 inches (1841 mm)
Height:
66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Wheelbase:
113.8 inches (2890 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
12.1 cubic feet (0.34 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
37.6 cubic feet (1.06 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
68.6 cubic feet (1.94 cubic meters)
Curb Weight Range:
3914 - 4441 lbs (1775 - 2014 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
5600 - 5800 lbs (2540 - 2630 kg) (Varies by configuration)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating 2009:
5-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger
NHTSA Side Crash Test Rating 2009:
5-Star Driver, 5-Star Rear Passenger
IIHS Front Crash Test Rating 2009:
Good
IIHS Side Crash Test Rating 2009:
Good
IIHS Roof Strength Rating 2009:
Good
Standard Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), front and side-curtain airbags.
Optional Safety Features:
Rear parking sensors.
Airbag System:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, three-row side-curtain airbags with rollover detection.
Audio Options:
Available AM/FM/CD/MP3 radios, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Uconnect infotainment system (depending on trim level and options).
Screen Sizes:
Optional touchscreens (e.g., 6.5-inch) on higher trims.
Advanced Features:
Available rear backup camera (on some trims), available rear parking assist.
Uconnect Features:
Voice command, Bluetooth streaming audio, hands-free calling (available on certain trims).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes (refer to manual).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, or as needed based on air quality.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Iridium spark plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Iridium spark plugs).
Engine Oil 2 4L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent, 4.5 quarts (4.2 liters) capacity.
Engine Oil 3 5L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent, 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) capacity.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Pink color (Chrysler Part No. 68048553AA or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, SAE J1703 or ISO 4925.
Common Problems Early Models:
Transmission rough shifting/hesitation (especially 4-speed auto), power steering pump issues, HVAC blower motor failures, occasional electrical gremlins, water pump leaks.
Dodge Brand History:
Dodge has a long history in the automotive industry, known for performance vehicles and practical utility vehicles.
First Generation Introduction:
The Dodge Journey was introduced as a new model for the 2009 model year, serving as Dodge's entry into the mid-size crossover segment.
Platform Origin:
Based on the Chrysler JC platform, shared with the Avenger and Caliber, though with significant modifications for the crossover application.
Assembly Location:
Toluca Assembly Plant, Toluca, Mexico.
Production Years Covered:
2009-2010 (First Generation, pre-facelift).
Safety Awards:
Achieved 5-Star safety ratings from NHTSA for frontal and side impacts in 2009, and 'Good' ratings from IIHS for front, side, and roof strength.
Consumer Reviews Early:
Generally praised for its practicality, spaciousness, and ride comfort, but often criticized for powertrain refinement and fuel economy compared to some competitors.
