Used 1998 Dodge Durango Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
221000 miles on her same motor and tranny
I got my 1998 dodge Durango 5.2 L at 20,000 miles on it first it was the only car me and the wife had so we had to be really nice to it then we raised six kids with it then we got a expedition el and the Durango had 100,000 miles at this time it became all mine I have a very heavy foot I treated it like a hot rod now for four years and 120,000 miles and still has the same engine,tranny,rear end,transfer case and front end and POWER that it did the day I got it takes snow rain mud very well I would never get rid of her I have money set aside just for her if anything ever did go wrong she WILL be fixed we have five cars and this is my go to ride for work or play the only bad thing is with me is I replace tires a lot (heavy foot)
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Had some trouble but love the vehicle
I have had to replace the front differential, tires (regular maintenance). I changed the oil to synthetic, now we are having trouble with ball joints. Gas mileage is OK. I get about 15mpg and I have the 3.18 v8 best engine to get. In town I get 11-13mpg. I overall love this car and it did wonders on a slippery slope while having a trailer attached and the brakes are wonderful. I would recommend buying this vehicle. I do have tranny problems. It doesn't like 2nd gear and I have the auto.
Adored this car
My parents purchased this car when I was in middle school, and passed it down to me as my first car. We live in an area of heavy snow at times, and I swear this car has gotten me through 2 to 3 foot snow drifts without a problem. It now has 210,000 miles on it, has been in 2 wrecks, but it still runs EXTREMELY well. Very reliable and great in extreme weather. I will sincerely miss it when the time comes.
Me and my Durango
I was the first owner and with a little help on the gas mileage, I would never give it up. Body still good, interior quality was very good after all the years and the people no real wear and tear to speak of. Drives like a car and makes me feel safe. Stereo needs to be changed but...
The good and the bad.
Lots of problems with the CV Joints. To check the computer on the vehicle took five minutes, cost $86. The rotors warped in 10k, just freeway driving. Most disappointing thing about my Dodge is the Dealerships I have to deal with to get minor repairs or just regular services. 4 wheel system whether it is in "Full Time" or "Part Time" is bad in winter snow, easy to spin out on this truck.
Decent SUV
Vehicle has great pulling power and torque. Has some reliability issues but usually nothing major. Gas mileage is terrible. Nice to climb and mud in. I know several people that own Dodge 4x4 including some with Durangos and the general concensus is the transmissions tend to not last longer than 140k mi.
I love It
My 1998 Durango has 95,000 miles on it and still purrs like a kitten. I live in a very rural and mountainous region. Gets me anywhere I want to go. I love all of the interior room. Great for traveling but not on a daily errand basis. Not good gas mileage. At 70,000 miles repaired a window motor, air conditioning hose and valve. Other than tires and regular maintenance. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone who needs a powerful suv......
Love my Mopar
We bought this with 23,000 miles and now it has 96,000, and I must say I love my Mopar. It's true gas mileage needs a lot of work. But hey... it holds all 5 kids and the wife. It pulls the boat like there isn't anything behind it. Had the sterio replaced along with the speakers, and now we rock out, driving down the road. This truck has never left us stranded. There was never a time I would wonder if she'd start. Very reliable, 318 power plant can't be beat. Gone across country 3 times on a whims notice, never once had any issue. Set the cruise control to 85 and eased down the road, though we stopped several times for gasoline. I will drive her til she can't go anymore.
What a Ride!!!!!
Anyone who complains of the gas mileage should have researched their purchase first! I have the '98 model durango (SLT) with the V-8 engine. It gets 15mpg on average. I purchased it to pull my sailboat; 5000 lbs. It does a wonderful job. The leather seats are easy to care for. I have not had any repairs other than routine maintenance. It is also wonderful off road. I would definitely buy a new one. If you want a luxury vehicle; buy a cadillac. This SUV was definitely made as a 'tough truck'.
Switched from a Chevy
Overall great truck but I feel like I'm married to the gas pump. Love the sturdiness - doesn't feel like a tin can. Great for towing my boat and camper. Suprised that I got better gas mileage in the mountains than I do in the flatlands of Florida. I didn't realize how sturdy this truck was until a VW Rabbit rear-ended me at 45 m.p.h. while I was at a dead stop. My bumper was smashed but the Rabbit was totalled. I decided the poor gas mileage was worth the price of having a truck that stood up in an accident. Now I wouldn't trade it!
Will drive it until death ... me, not the Dodge ;)
Fuel mileage is what you'd expect out of an SUV - but still better than our conversion van and pickup. The driver's seat is electronically adjustable and IMO the most comfortable seat in it. We have 8 children, and are daily lifting, folding, readjusting the seats - and it still performs like a beast. West Virginia treacherous mountains, muddy rut filled roads and deep snows - never a problem...except sometimes my driving LOL LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my Durango. It's body will never go out of style. Like any vehicle, there will be maintenance. Old things wear out, and have to be tended to or occasionally replaced. I plant to drive this thing until death - mine, not hers. I'm convinced she will live forever.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Lived up to expectations
My truck has been outstanding with everything that I have asked it to do. I have worked it very hard and occasionally have towed at capacity+. It has always performed well. Mechanically, I take very good care of it, full synthetic in the crankcase, rear diff and tranny. I installed a tranny cooler because I tow heavy loads. I am approaching 60K miles and I have replaced the front brake pads and rear bearings. Nothing out of the ordinary. Mileage is acceptable 13-14 in. A 4X4 with a V-8 and 20+mpg don't go together and anyone who bought one of these and then complains about the gas mileage didn't do their homework and shouldn't have bought it in the first place.
My Best Vehicle
I've been driving my Durango for 7 years, longer than any other vehicle I've ever owned, and I plan to drive it for a long time to come. I am getting ready to have the trans rebuilt, it's been messing up some for a couple of years, and with 154k miles, I can see why it would. But it hasn't broken down on me because of it. I love this vehicle. I do wish the gas mileage was better, but with the performance and reliability and comfort, etc, the mileage has been tolerable. This has been my favorite rig.
Durango looks great but a piece of junk
The machine falls aprt at 70K miles, new trans, re-sealed transfer case, and now a speed sensor, I think! I'll never buy a Dodge again.
I like my Durango
15 mpg stinks, but you knew that. We tow a 19' ski boat or a loaded camper. 4X4 is great in snow or ice. Uncomfortable third seat for adults, but works for kids, folds down for cargo. Fun vehicle to drive, will buy another.
Love of my life
When I bought this truck, I needed a backup truck for my business, and a car to haul my children around. I was asked many times how I liked it, and always replied that I needed to put more miles on it. Well It has been over 10 years, and 193k original exhaust, 4 sets of tires, and very little maintenance. The tranny finally gave up(plugged cooler line),and I need to replace the blower motor.This truck has pulled everything, hauled everything(I've bent the springs), driven hundreds of miles in 4wd through blizzards and drifts, it could quit and I wouldn't fault it, I don't baby anything, this one has been used and abused, it will last forever. 22 mpg, 65 MPH lightly loaded. 13 MPG, 75 mph, heavy load.
Great Tow vehicle!
I got an awesome deal on my 98, back in 02. So I used $$$ left in my truck budget to completely rebuild its front end (all 8 new Moog ball joint). The difference was amazing! Overall, gas mileage was poor (11-12mpg). But I had ZERO other problems with the truck and it now has 148k miles!
Can't Beat Durango
I had to put a fuel pump in at 55,000 miles and then again at 140,000 miles. At 6 years 2 months I had to replace the orignal battery. At 172,350 miles I had to replace the water pump. At 195,000 miles I had to replace the transmission. It now has 200,350 miles on it and still going strong. The body and color are still in excellent (show room) condition. My sister had a Ford SUV and can't get more then 15,000 miles with out in haven to go in the shop for one thing or another. I am going to buy another one and give this one to my sister. It will be cheaper for her in the long run.
No Problems
I bought by 98 Durango used in 2000 with 46,000 miles. It's now at 90,000 and I have had no problems with it at all (besides getting it stolen, then returned). Nothing has fallen off, nothing is loose, and I keep it looking like new. The only thing negative I can say is that the gas mileage is starting to hurt. But, who knew 4 years ago that gas would be so expensive. I must say, though, I've not had the terrible gas mileage I'm reading about on here. I've been able to get 19 mpg on the highway with 92 octane, and about 15 in the city. Must be different driving habits. Oh, and change your air filter and keep your plugs clean... it works wonders.
Ball joint blues
I bought my Durango used, had it checked out by my mechanic and then took it on a long trip. (OK, I know, that was dumb). When I went to get the alignment done, they said they couldn't do it because of bad ball joints. It was covered under warranty AND so was the next set 10K miles later. Last summer I had to replace the ball joints again. It has a nice inside but my power windows gave out around 130k miles. I drove it to 202K miles and the 4WD has gone out. I kept very good maintenance on it but stuff has just starting going. The front bumper is rusting.
OK Vehicle, but there are better
Bought Durango in 98 and loved it. Hated the gas mileage from the start though. The interior is poor at best. The middle seat will not support a rear- facing child seat safely. Not comfortable at all. After a 3 hour trip I feel like I am beat. Decent reliablility. Spark plugs only lasted 30K miles, replace O2 sensor @ 30K, Been through 3 batteries. Brake wear is great and have not had a "major" problem yet.
30,000 miles of hard driving, still great
Had the car for 30000 miles and been in two accidents. Rearended a pickup, got it fixed, then was rearended by a Jeep Cherokee that got totaled but other than a lot of scuffed paint the Durango was fine. Only thing bad about it is the gas mileage so I put on an aftermarket intake system and exhaust now it gets 13 city 19 highway. Best thing about it is the power. Took it offroading didn't have a problem anywhere in 4wd. Also driving on the highway is a blast . I love this car and would get another after this if I can find one with low amount of miles. does great burnouts, too.
Steer Clear of Durango
Nothing but problems with this "truck." Ex: gear shift melted off after 7 months due to heat in the car. Dodge refused warranty coverage. Engin blew after 82000 miles. Certified Dodge dealership in Chicago repaired the vehicle incorrectly, which led to future main gasket problem. The dealership which caused the problem since went out of business and Chrysler refused any warranty coverage. The list goes on. I will never purchase another Chrysler product.
Styled well, but poor quality
Purchased my Durango in 98, The body style is looks good. Problems with my Durango - All 4 window moldings rusted and Chrysler nor the dealer would replace them. The differential started grinding around 50K miles. A loud clunk noise when put in Reverse. Dealer says its normal (their answer for everything) I have tested other manufactures Chevy, Ford, Lexus and it's not normal. The company only cares about the sytle not the quality. Planning on Selling and buying a Lexud RX-300.
Buying a Toyota
I bought my 1998 Durango in Jan. 2001...I have driven it about 50000 miles and have had pretty good luck with it up to now but I think my luck is beginning to run out. The driver's side passenger window won't goup and down all the time unless yo slam the door, the transmission won't shift gears when you first start it and the suspension is getting really loose. This truck is not good for alot of highway driving. And forget about the mountains...you have to turn off the overdrive and just watch the gas gauge go down at the speed of sound....
Gas guzzling facade with versatility
For transporting a family on vacation, and for hauling cargo, -- its a dream. Its fold-down 2nd and 3rd row seats provides versatility. However its 13mpg deters it from daily driving. Its interior are well designed with kids in mine, as well as hauling 30 bags of groceries. Its got power to spare but the ride is truck-like. Don't expect it to stop in wet weather, --- otherwise its a great SUV for the money. No major mechanical defects or problem transpired during my ownership.
One of the best I've ever owned
This truck is outstanding! I got over 60K miles on my brakes before they needed servicing (machine, pads, etc., not rotors!). I have not had to put a nickel into this car outside of fluid changes, one tuneup, and 4 tires. Awesome. Ok, it guzzles gas but which SUV does not. It's fun to drive and can tow really well. I wish Chrysler were still american so I could continue to purchase their vehicles.
Better than expected
I got the low-end with the 8-cylinder and really like it
More Truck
85000 miles and no breakdown. More truck than other SUV's
A GREAT American Truck !
I bought the Duarngo as soon as it came out and after reading the excellent reviews at the time. In 1998 it was the only mid-sized SUV to have 7 seats and stadium seating. We also considered the Mercedes ML 320 which had just come out but they were dragging their heels on the 7 available seats. The Duarango has been as solid as a rock brushing aside snow and floods with no difficulty and its Mack Truck looks only add to the appeal !
I will never purchase a Dodge again
I have never had a vehicle that required so many trips to the dealer. It's only a 98, but I'm on my third battery, the lower ball joints have been replaced, the air conditioner has been replaced, the rear wiper motor, all 4 power window motors (drivers side twice), transmission sensor. Several wheel studs have needed replacement. Luckily most of the repairs were covered under warrenty. Currently, I have the rocking chair problem with the drivers seat that most other Durango owners have noticed.
Darn dependable Durango
The Durango is the first American made vehicle I have ever owned. I bought it mainly for long road trips in both summer and winter and I commuet to work in it daily. It has been bullet proof. I have never had this vehicle in for any repairs other than scheduled maintenance. I have 88,000 miles on it in 4 years. I bought the Durango fully loaded with the 5.9 V8. It is an extremely comfortable, fast, dependable ride and is an excellent touring vehicle. One of the best cars I have ever owned. Great stereo to boot. I upgraded shocks and tires and both made a big difference.
I Love My Truck
Four years ago, my wife threatened to divorce me if I bought my Durango. I bought the Durango and she left. I still like the truck better than her. The gas mileage keeps improving with age. The Durango now has 91K and gets about 18.3 mpg on a straight run @ 70 mph. It has been very reliable. with few major repairs. The truck pulls my sailboat (~3600 lbs) with ease. The truck is great on out-of-state hockey trips for my son. It has loads of cargo room for handling goalie equipment. The third seat is great, reducing inter-sibling fights by 40% when kids sit in different seats. I love my truck, and would buy another Durango.
Big&Beautiful
since I 've bought it in December 2001, I have enjoyed every mile in it. I've only had to replace the water pump on it, but I am still waiting for other problems to occur. It rides very well for a 4 wheel drive. The drivers seat is really comfortable especially if you have back trouble. It is very spacious and is awesome and practical for kids and even to haul friends around. The option to put up or down the third seat is great. The cargo area could use more head room for bikes and such and is not really meant to move big furniture as we have found out. Rear air could blow out harder than what it does and could have more versital air vents.
Durango Comments
Buy the extended warranty if you plan on keeping this vehicle for awhile. This isn't due to things breaking frequently as much as it is the actual cost of some items to replace. Great styling and ride for an SUV. Lot's of cargo room and good power with the smaller V8. Infinity sound system is awesome!! Ball joints have been replaced 4 times @ $1000 per visit. A/C problems started at 55000 miles and dealership can't figure it out.
Loved it/ Now Hate it
Loved this SUV for 4 years except for having to replace the window motors 3 times. Then it hit 70,000 m. It's been in the shop 4 times in 2 months. Now spent over $4,800 in repairs in the last 2 months. First the wiper motors and fuel pump. Then a rebuild of the transmission. Replacement of parts in the exhaust system that failed. Numerous other minor repairs. Looking at another $1,500 to fix the ABS system. Now hear there's problems with ball joints. This is ridiculous. All previous cars I owned (not Chryslers) stayed in good condition 10 years each. I am never getting another Chrysler product.
Best SUV
I have owned three Dodge Durangos and they have always been dependable and fun to drive. My 98 Durango has 237,000 miles on it. I do not plan on getting rid of it any time soon. I own a 2008 Dodge Durango also and love both of them.
Way to go Dodge
Great Suv I have had this truck for 3 years and have only spent 600.00 in repairs, including tires. The only two problems i have had in the 3 years I have owned it are An expensive front end alignment and a crank shaft sensor.
not too happy
My dodge ran fine for 40,000 miles but have had to put a rear end on at 54,000.Cost $2,500. Other problems are tie rods and lower ball joints. Would not buy another one due to problems, poor resale value and poor gas mileage. If your rear pinion bearing acts up make sure your mechanic looks it over pretty closely.
problems to be expected
At 58,000 miles, I spent $2500 on getting the whole rear end replaced. All rear axle bearings,differential, trac lock assembly, etc. had to be replaced. The ABS light was diagnosed 3x's (at my expence)as incorrect programming. Until finally the diagnosis was a 560.00$ anti lock brake controller which is on national back order. Think they will do a recall? Ha. Strange thing is that our 97 Dakota has the same problem. Hmmm. Another consistency with our 2 Dodge vehicles is the evaporator pads for the A/C went (only 24K miles on the Dakota). Cost to replace, only an additional $900.00.
gas guzzler
it was ok, until the breaks squeaked after 3 weeks. but the gas is ridiculous. i dont go far without visiting a gas station so if u want to save money dont buy this car.
Durango a problem
Rides like a tank. have replaced the ball joints at 37,000 miles and the heater core at 47,000 miles both were major expenses. One of the worst 4x4 trucks I have ever owned. Dealership argues with you on everything. They had the gall to say ball joints on a four wheel drive go out about 35,000 to 40,000 miles. If this is the case Dodge should start making a different product other than trucks. Try washing machines it would probably have the same ride as their trucks.
Don't buy one.
Poor performace Uncomfortable Unsafe brakes Miserable gas mileage Flimsy Unreliable What a mistake, My wife liked better than a "minivan" when we bought it. Now it just sits. It has been in and out of the shop most of it's life
Never a Problem
There doesn't seem to be much middle ground on the Durango, love it or hate it. I love it, never had one problem and it has been a great family car. Terriffic styling, solid feel, and very versatile with 3 rows but shorter than a minivan. Highly recommend it to anyone.
durango
Fun to drive, excellent for towing. Nice for family.
GREAT SUV!!!
Fun to drive, and the 4WD works wonders. Gas mileage is actually good on the highway (for an SUV with a V8 engine). Extremely powerful and wide vehicle.
bad rear end
Does this sound familar. Great looker, nice features, had to have it when I saw it. 58K miles later I get 10.2 gallons per mile, the AC evaporator replaced twice under warranty and once by me. Now it needs a new rear end! My mechanic says it is quite common! It still looks good (other than rust on bottom of window frames).
Best SUV Ever
I leased my Durango as soon as they came out. It has been an excellent vehicle. In 75,000 miles of driving, I have only had it in the shop twice for any significant repairs (Manifikd gasket, coolant temp sensor). The tires lasted over 50,000 miles. The truck still looks like new!!! I am also one of the few that have actually taken their SUV off-road. The truck was amazing, pulling through mud up to the door handles!!!! What a truck!!! Some day I would love to buy an R/T.
Love my Durango
I absolutely love my Durango. I am not a big fan of dodge but, I love my truck. It is perfect for a family, it has plenty of room but its not too bulky. It doesn't drive like an SUV. I am very comfortable in it.
Why I like Durango
Looks solid, but rides too bouncy.