Is Dodge Expensive to Maintain?
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Dodge cars can be fun to drive, but you don't want to let your car down with low operating costs. Everybody likes driving a sporty car, but how long will these sporty autos last? When deciding which Dodge model is best for you, consider the maintenance cost.
Well, Dodge’s maintenance cost will be somewhere in the middle. In other words, they are fairly less expensive to maintain when compared to most other auto brands. But again, that totally depends on the model you have as some Dodge models cost more to maintain than others.
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Is Dodge Expensive to Maintain?
RepairPal claims that Dodge owners typically pay around $640 annually for their vehicle's maintenance.
This includes unexpected repairs and routine maintenance. It should be noted that this figure only considers the cost of repairs depending on your vehicle's age, mileage, model, and reliability.
Dodge cars are relatively less expensive to maintain than the average vehicle in the industry. They aren't as expensive as luxury cars, which can cost upwards of $1,000 annually for regular maintenance.
They're also not as inexpensive as other popular brands, such as Toyota and Hyundai.
How Expensive Is It to Maintain a Dodge?
According to RepairPal, the average cost of maintaining a Dodge is around $640, which is lower than the average cost of repairs for other brands like Chevy, GMC, and Ford.
Despite this, Dodge remains more expensive than brands like Nissan and Toyota.
Currently, Dodge sells three different models. Despite this, the company's current lineup and recently discontinued models remain popular with car buyers. They include the following:
Dodge Charger
The famous Dodge Challenger and the Dodge Charger are the brand's most popular performance vehicles.
However, we'll be focusing on the four-door Charger. This model shares many of its components with the two-door Challenger, which gives you a better idea of how much it costs to maintain.
The Charger is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle. It can cost around $652 annually to maintain, according to RepairPal.
This figure is similar to the cost of repairs for the Challenger, which comes with a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating.
Despite its above-average reliability rating, the Charger is still prone to experiencing various problems.
For instance, it has been involved in 36 vehicle recalls, which include issues with the automatic transmission, the windshield, and the electrical system.
Common problems that can affect the Charger include a faulty thermostat which can cost up to $160, a hard-to-fill fuel tank, $110, and steering issues, which cost up to $1,700.
Dodge Durango
Over the years, the Dodge Durango has become a popular vehicle. Its recent model years have resulted in a 3.5 reliability rating, which is good enough to be one of the most dependable vehicles in its class.
Unfortunately, even with this rating, potential problems can still affect the vehicle. Some of these include a faulty engine oil leak ($112), a malfunctioning air conditioning unit ($540), and a failed door look ($180).
In addition, Dodge has issued several recalls for the 2018 and newer Durango models due to problems similar to those found in the Charger.
Dodge Journey
The discontinued Dodge Journey midsize crossover is a popular choice for used-car shoppers due to its 4.0 reliability score.
It's also cheaper to maintain than other vehicles in its class, costing around $552 annually.
Unfortunately, despite its impressive reliability rating, Dodge has issued 24 recalls for the Journey since its debut in 2009.
The recalls for the Journey involved various problems, such as the electrical system and airbags.
Other issues that led to the vehicle's recall included problems with the automatic transmissions and the problematic camshaft and crankshaft sensor.
Other problems that have been known to affect the Journey include:
- A non-functioning entry system ($112).
- A faulty power steering pump ($400).
- An overheating vehicle ($150).
Dodge Grand Caravan
The original Dodge Caravan was instrumental in the minivan revolution that occurred during the 1980s.
Although the vehicle's popularity decreased during the 1990s and 2000s, it remains one of the most popular vehicles in families.
After more than three decades, Dodge decided to stop making the Grand Caravan in 2020. Although it's no longer as popular as it used to be, it still has a good 4.0 reliability rating, which is good enough for most people who own a Grand Caravan.
Unfortunately, many of the newer models of the Grand Caravan have been subject to numerous complaints and recalls. Some of these include the 2018 model, which has been prone to these problems.
Some of the potential problems that owners of the Grand Caravan might encounter include a leaking oil filter ($110), a water leak ($110), and faulty shocks ($1,250).
Extended Auto Warranty
An extended car warranty can help lower the cost of maintenance for Dodge owners. It provides coverage for repairs that are covered by the factory warranty, and it can also help prevent unexpected expenses.
You pay for the contract with an extended warranty, and the deductible is determined once you take your vehicle to the shop.
An extended warranty can also help lower the likelihood of getting stuck with the bill for unexpected vehicle repairs.
It can provide you with peace of mind knowing that your car will be able to keep working properly.
You have two options when choosing an extended warranty for your vehicle: a manufacturer-backed contract or an independent one.
Dodge Extended Warranty Coverage from the Manufacturer
Both new and pre-owned vehicles can be equipped with various coverage options, such as Maximum Care and Added Care Plus.
With Maximum Care, owners can extend their vehicle's warranty up to 8 years or 125,000 miles. On the other hand, with Added Care Plus, they can get up to 8 years or 150,000 miles. Dodge's extended warranty is backed by the company's subsidiary, Mopar.
You can get covered repairs at any company's dealerships, including those belonging to Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Fiat. Factory-trained technicians will handle the repairs.
Dodge owners should know that this coverage only works on new vehicles that have been in service for a few years.
Dodge Extended Warranty Coverage from Independent Providers
A third-party warranty can be more flexible for vehicle owners than a manufacturer's. It is often cheaper than the manufacturer's warranty.
Dodge owners with manufacturer's warranties must take their vehicles to an authorized dealer for regular maintenance and repairs. Many third-party providers will free you to go to any licensed facility for service.
Dodge Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Like other car brands, Dodge provides its customers with a suggested maintenance schedule that can help keep their vehicles running smoothly.
This routine can include changing the oil and checking the tire pressure. However, each model and make has its own specific requirements.
Your Dodge vehicle's recommended maintenance schedule can be found in its owner's manual. It's essential to keep in mind that different models have varying requirements.
For instance, if you have a high-performance vehicle, you might need to schedule different maintenance intervals.
Every 10,000 Miles
Depending on the model, you must perform the first service at around 10,000 miles or after 350 hours of engine run time.
After the first service, following the recommended maintenance schedule is essential to ensure that your vehicle will still run smoothly.
Dodge recommends that you change the oil and filter at this stage and rotate the tires. Other necessary steps include inspecting the brake, exhaust, and cooling systems.
Every 20,000 Miles
After reaching 20,000 miles, Dodge owners can expect to have other services performed, such as replacing the air conditioning filter. This can also include checking the front suspension and brakes.
Every 30,000 Miles
After reaching 30,000 miles, you must schedule additional car maintenance procedures. These include the replacement of the air filter and the inspection of the transfer case fluid.
Every 100,000 Miles
The 100,000-mile mark is one of a Dodge vehicle's most significant service milestones. The car needs various services, such as replacing the spark plugs, the PCV valve, and the coolant.
While some owners might opt to perform their own maintenance, relying on a certified repair facility or an experienced mechanic can ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly.
