Hi all,

I've posted in the Caravan section with questions on our van but I think this is my first Durango post. So hey all. I've toying with the idea of replacing my car with a Durango for some time now and I just wanted to ask a couple questions. I have been reading other posts, and picking up tips here and there so I do feel I know some about them by now. Anyhow, I've decided on 2001-03, would be my preference. Can anyone give me an idea of real world mileage? I've been able to squeeze about 16.5 out of my old Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited with the 5.2 and all wheel drive... Also, what should I look for as far as problem areas? I tried searching this forum but I didn't come up with much. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks

 

if you get a durango w/ the 4.7 you should be able to get 17 or so out of it overall average, some can get as high as 20 on the highway.

with the 5.9 you wont be so fortunate 12-15 is about what you will probably get.

as for problem areas check up on the tranmission(if its a 5.9) and the upper ball joints if its a 4x4

 

I have a 2001 with a 4.7 (less then 1500 miles on a full rebuild). I ran a pure highway trip and got 16.5. Average around town is 11-13mpg for me. But I have AWD and 3.92 gears. A Durango with 2WD mode and 3.55 gears would probably do better. I drive mine fairly easy on the pedal. To get the higher mileages, you definitely need to purchase an anti-gravity shoe for your right foot....

 

As for common problems - make sure the 4x4 selector is working since it's electronic vs manual (pre 2001). The modules may go bad and are expensive.

The fan blower resistor seem to fail often - mainly it blows only on the high setting.

Get one that has maintenance records - there are reports of engine issues with onese not cared for (but that seems like a "Duh" issue).
Search for "sludge" in the forum to see what folks are saying.

Lot's of references to the plenum gasket.

Lots of threads on AC issues too.

Here's a good thread to start https://dodgeforum.com/forum/1st-gen...wers-faqs.html

 

sludge is only caused by neglecting to do proper maintenance. If you do the proper maintenance THERE WILL BE NO SLUDGE!

 

Looks like the 4.7 with the selectable 4WD would be my best option. I've heard and read about the "sludge" and that is a concern so I'll have to find one with good records. My cousin has a 2001 Dakota 4.7 with over 220K on it, no problems so I think if you take care of them they can last. Still just toying with the idea, but I would like to get one. Thanks for the responses.

 

if maintance has been done to some degree you will not have sludge problems, they are rare (as stated above) and only on very neglected engines.