🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Durango

Year:

2002

Body Style:

SUV

Model Code:

DN

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2002 Dodge Durango was positioned as a mid-size SUV, offering a balance of family utility, towing capability, and optional V8 power. It competed in a segment with established players like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer/GMC Envoy, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Competitive Strengths:

Offered powerful V8 engine options (4.7L Magnum, 5.9L Magnum) for superior towing and acceleration compared to some competitors. Standard third-row seating provided enhanced passenger capacity. Robust body-on-frame construction contributed to its towing prowess.

Distinguishing Elements:

Distinctive Dodge styling, available permanent 4WD system (on some trims), robust Magnum V8 engines known for durability and torque, and a spacious interior with available third-row seating.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (including specific engine variants and sub-components), Transmission (automatic and manual, if applicable), Drivetrain (2WD and 4WD systems, differentials, axles), Suspension (front and rear components, shocks, springs), Steering System, Brake System (front and rear, ABS components), Fuel System (tank, lines, pump, injectors), Exhaust System, Cooling System (radiator, fan, thermostat), Electrical System (wiring harnesses, fuse box, relays, ignition), Lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior lights), HVAC System (heater core, AC compressor, vents), Body Panels (exterior and interior trim, doors, fenders, hood, tailgate), Chassis Components, Interior Appointments (seats, dashboard, trim panels), Wheels and Tires, Accessories

Technical Depth:

Detailed component breakdown with exploded views, part numbers, and interchangeability information. Focuses on identifying and ordering correct replacement parts. Does not include repair procedures or diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

High-quality printing with clear diagrams and legible text.

Binding Type:

Stapled or perfect bound, depending on original manufacturer specifications.

Paper Type:

Durable, often semi-gloss paper suitable for shop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement Hp Torque 4.7L:

4.7L (287 cu in) Magnum V8; approximately 235-245 horsepower and 300-310 lb-ft of torque.

Engine Displacement Hp Torque 5.9L:

5.9L (360 cu in) Magnum V8; approximately 245-250 horsepower and 330-335 lb-ft of torque. (Note: 5.9L may be less common on certain trims or markets).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port fuel injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a Mopar-branded OAT coolant, pink or orange in color.

Oil Capacity 4.7L:

Approximately 6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter change.

Oil Capacity 5.9L:

Approximately 7 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter change.

Recommended Oil Viscosity 4.7L:

SAE 5W-30

Recommended Oil Viscosity 5.9L:

SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature.

Spark Plugs 4.7L:

Typically Champion Copper Plus or equivalent (e.g., Champion 796, NGK).

Spark Plugs 5.9L:

Typically Champion Copper Plus or equivalent (e.g., Champion 131, NGK).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Automatic:

42RE (for 4.7L V8) or 44RE (for 5.9L V8) 4-speed automatic transmission.

Optional:

Manual transmission was not generally offered for the 2002 Dodge Durango.

Fluid Type 42Re 44Re:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Automatic Transmission Fluid, Type 9602)

Fluid Capacity 42Re 44Re:

Approximately 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters) for a pan drop and fill; significantly more for a complete overhaul.

Drive Type:

Available in 2WD (Rear Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four Wheel Drive) configurations. The 4WD system was often a full-time, open-differential system.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 193.4 inches (4912 mm)

Width:

Approximately 78.8 inches (2001 mm)

Height:

Approximately 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 116.7 inches (2964 mm)

Passenger Capacity:

7 passengers (with standard 2nd and optional 3rd-row seating)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approximately 14.1 cu ft (0.40 m³)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approximately 47.6 cu ft (1.35 m³)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approximately 91.5 cu ft (2.59 m³)

Curb Weight 2Wd:

Approximately 4,500 - 4,700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)

Curb Weight 4Wd:

Approximately 4,700 - 4,900 lbs (2132 - 2223 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Typically around 6,000 - 6,200 lbs (2722 - 2812 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 7,800 lbs (3538 kg) when properly equipped with the 5.9L V8 engine and a factory-installed towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 Stars

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Acceptable

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags for driver and passenger.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point seatbelts for second-row occupants, and available lap belts for the third row.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system available on rear seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base models featured AM/FM radio with CD player; higher trims offered premium Infinity or Boston Acoustics audio systems, cassette player, and in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Navigation:

Factory navigation systems were not widely available or standard on this model year. Aftermarket solutions were common.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors were available on some higher trim levels.

Auxiliary Input:

No factory auxiliary audio input jack. Cassette adapter or aftermarket FM transmitter were common for connecting portable audio devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or every 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) for the automatic transmission, under normal driving conditions. Severe use may require more frequent changes.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or every 2-3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approximately 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for copper plugs; higher for premium iridium/platinum plugs if upgraded. Consult the parts catalog for specific plug recommendations.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check cap or owner's manual for specific recommendation)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4 compatible fluid.

Differential Fluid Type Rear Axle:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (conventional or synthetic). If limited-slip differential (LSD) is equipped, an LSD additive may be required. Check rear axle cover for markings.

Transfer Case Fluid Type 4Wd:

NV242 or NV247 transfer case: Mopar NV247 Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent.

Common Complaints:

Common issues reported for this generation include: interior trim piece rattling, power window regulator failures, rear differential pinion seal leaks, front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), and potential for head gasket issues on early 4.7L Magnum engines if overheating occurs. Rusty brake lines and frame rust are also potential concerns in corrosive environments.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and powerful vehicles, often targeting performance and utility. The brand's trucks and SUVs are known for their muscular styling and capabilities.

First Generation Dn:

The first generation Dodge Durango (DN) was introduced for the 1998 model year. The 2002 model represents a refinement of this platform, offering updated styling and features. It was built on a modified Dakota pickup truck platform.

Manufacturing Location:

Newark, Delaware, USA

Production Years:

1998-2003 (First Generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:

While the Durango wasn't specifically named MotorTrend SUV of the Year in 2002, it was a strong contender in its segment and received generally positive reviews for its utility and power.

Kelley Blue Book Value:

KBB often rated the Durango well for its resale value and utility in its early years due to its towing capacity and V8 engine options.