9.3

really awful
Typical Repair Cost:
$0
Average Mileage:
93,500 miles
Total Complaints:
6 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. not sure (3 reports)
  2. kick panel module (2 reports)
  3. replace ctm (central timer module) (1 reports)
Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2003 Dodge Durango:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

problem #6

Feb 042011

Durango 4.7L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 78,213 miles

followed the instructions from the guy in Vermont using a hair dryer to dry module saved cost of dealer diagnostic and new part

- Randy C., Belleville, ON, canada

problem #5

Jul 312010

Durango 4WD 4.2L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 150,000 miles

Purchased 03 Dodge Durango June 7,2010 as a used vehicle. Within the first 30 days of ownership it was in the shop 3 times for a total of approx. 9-10 days. Had problems with the service engine light coming on, along with the door ajar and service 4wd light. These lights would sometimes stay on, sometimes they would go off riding down the road, just whatever. Took to shop and they checked out the entire electrical system, but could not find anything. I was told that they had seen 2 other Durangos the same week with similar problems. Sometimes the keyless remote would work and lock/unlock the doors sometimes it wouldn't. Sometimes the windows and locks could be controlled from the drivers side door controls, sometimes not. Sometimes the alarm would sound when the lock/unlock button on keyless remote was used. The guy at the repair shop told me that sometimes if the battery was changed out we could have these type of problems, we could even experience the vehicle not starting or idling and would cut off all because the "Computer" in it would sometimes forget how to make the vehicle run. Currently it is in the shop for the 4th time because the headlights, taillights, dash lights or inside dome lights will not come on. The guy at the repair shop told me that the central timer modular was shot and that it needed to be replaced, could only get the part from the dealership and that it would cost me approx. $459.00 to repair. I found a website www.nhtsa.dot.gov that had a listing of dodge Durango recalls. The CTM was listed along with a recall for the windshield/wiper motor (which by chance the rear windshield wiper doesn't work at all and the front wipers will only work on med/fast not intermittent) and also a recall on front control arm/upper ball joints. When I called the 1-800 # I was told that the CTM recall was not on my particular VIN# vehicle and that it would not be covered, and I would have to pay to have it fixed. I can't believe that Chrysler would not honor all vehicles that are having the same problems regardless of whether they say the VIN # matched to parts that were recalled. Regardless of mileage, if there is a problem and it is the same regardless of the year or VIN it could be dangerous to drive the vehicle and they should repair the problem regardless of the mileage.

Update from Aug 6, 2010: After numerous calls to Chrysler/Dodge Customer Service and a complaint filed with them, I have also contacted NHTSA and filed a complaint with them. I was also referred to the Govenor's Office of Consumer Affairs to file a complaint with them. I should not have to pay $400-$500 out of pocket for a repair on a part that was defective on other 03 Dodge Durangos just because my VIN# was not included in the recall. This problem posses the same safety risk for my as it did for other owners with the same problem whos VIN# was included in the repair.

- hatfield5136, Buckhead, GA, US

problem #4

Dec 312009

Durango LS 4.2L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 107,000 miles

I went into the store, came out and all of a sudden the keyless remote would not open the doors. I had to use the key. When I started the truck the lights would not go on, the 4w drive needs work light went on the dashboard. No dashboard lights, only brake

lights and directionals worked. No idea what the problem is. Please help!

Update from Feb 24, 2010: I owe this solution to a guy in Vermont and it saved me a ton of money! I hope it does the same for you. Inside the left kick panel on the driver's side (if you sit in the driver's seat and kick your left foot to the left, the plastic piece you hit is the kick panel). Behind that panel is an electrical module. When moisture gets in, it causes it to mess up. To get it out pop off the trim piece inside the door. Remove the kick panel screw. A second screw is inside behind the carpet. Remove the kick panel and inside is the module. Remove the 3 screws, unplug the module and take inside. Pop open the module and inside is a circuit board. Dry the circuit board with a hair dryer. Replace board into module, seal with electrical tape and reinstall. Problem solved. It worked for me and he said it worked for 3 other people as well.

- sabine, Pelham, NH, US

problem #3

Oct 012008

Durango SLT 4.7L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 87,285 miles

I have no headlights, dash lights,dome light, rear wiper or front intermittent wipers. The check 4wd light is on. Everything worked fine and the problem started upon start up.

- Chuck K., Lyndon Center, VT, US

problem #2

Apr 112007

(reported on)

Durango 4.7 V8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 86,000 miles

it is such a pain in the ass to deal with a newer vehicle that is a pile of sh*t and then they wanna charge you up the ass to fix it or even look at it. i work at night and i have a car that has electrical problems( no head lights or dash lights or interior lights) and it is problematic. if anyone has the solution or idea please let me know. thank you so much

- deanna_givens, Colorado Springs, CO, US

problem #1

Mar 092006

(reported on)

Durango SXT

  • 52,425 miles

was driving home found out had no delay wipers, got home found out have no headlight, dash, rear wiper, no turn signals, and light to check 4wheel drive is on..... will let you know outcome dealer says have to wait 4 days for appointment, yes you idiots I have no headlights, what am I only supposed to drive during the day........? well since I drive my work truck from home and back, I guess I can run some errands then but what about my son and my social life till they fix this , mechanic on phone seemed baffled, that makes 2 of us...... will let you know out come.

- bbob247, B, CT, US