1999 Dodge Durango SLT 5.9L V8
Summary:
Awesome people; boat; kayak hauler and off-road vehicle
Faults:
Replaced battery at 125,000 miles (4 years)
ABS processor failed at 100k miles (not repaired)
Replaced ball joints and related parts at 135,000 miles (5 years)
General Comments:
I have been very happy with this truck. I drove 25k miles per year for the first 4 years of ownership in hot Texas, now about 10k miles per year in the Pacific North West.
I tow a 6,500lb boat a couple of miles every few weeks (this is above the recommended tow capacity) and have not had a problem. (I use 4WD Low setting).
It has always had oil and fluids changed when recommended and all regular services.
I had ball joints etc. replaced at around 135k miles, a reasonable duration given the service I have put this truck to.
Only major problem that I have not resolved is ABS does not work. I hated the ABS processor anyway, it is far too slow to be truly effective and I now operate the vehicle with perfect brakes - but no ABS.
Mechanic friend says that many owners neglect maintenance and suffer (or sell to sufferer!) as a consequence.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 1st May, 2006
29th May 2007, 12:25
Wrote this back a couple of years ago. Currently my 99 Durango has 104,000 miles on it and still running very well. Got my serpentine belt changed and new Goodyear Fortera tires. The ride is very smooth, but those tires are large and seemed to have hurt my mpg ave. I'm between 11-12 mpg in town and 13 on the high way. I was doing a little better before tire replacement. What I gave up in mpg I received in driving comfort and safety. In the snow in PA. I did not have to put my truck in 4 wheel at all. The new tires gripped very nicely and I have not spun out once. This was a problem before. I hope my luck continues. The truck is continuing to do well for me and my family and does not feel like a 99 in 2007.