Dodge Durango Forum : “can i retrieve the engine code using the odometer and the ignition switch?”

no, i do not think so.probley dealor.

You are talking about the "Check Engine" light code?  If so, you will need an OBD-II code reader, many auto parts stores will do this for free.

If you are talking about the code that designates what engine you have, the 8th digit of the VIN will tell you this.  A dealer or auto parts store can decode it for you.

I had a dodge caravan and with a certain sequence of turning the ignition switch several times quickly and holding then releasing the trip odometer switch the car would run through a series of tests then display a code on the odometer. it took forever to figure that out. wondered if the 04 Durango might be the same.  i can get it to run through the tests but 04030.0 is all that shows on the odo. that isnt the mileage and doesnt appear to be a valid engine code either.  Oh at one point it showed 15hr... Wierd!!!!!!!!

I know this is old but I felt the need to reply anyway.....

2000 and newer Dakotas and Durangos have a built-in system that can display check engine light (CEL) codes without the use of a scanner. 1999 and earlier Dakotas/Durangos must be read with a scanner, check your local dealership or auto parts store for assistance.

There are cases I've seen where this trick doesn't work,  on some years it is hit or miss.....no idea why

To check your engine codes:
Turn the key to ON (not start), OFF, ON, OFF, ON and leave it there. If you look in the odometer window the codes will flash any code(s) with a small delay between each result. Each code should be in a P#### format, and will say PDONE when completed - turn your key to OFF and remove. Use the OBD code list to determine what problem the computer detected.

It works!  2001 Dodge Durange what does P0455 mean

P0455 (M) Evap Leak Monitor Large Leak Detected A large leak has been detected in the evaporative system.

The evap system is a bunch of hoses that run from the gas tank to a charcoal canister under the truck, and then up to the engine.  It collects excess fuel vapors and vents them to the intake manifold to be burned.  The hoses tend to dry rot and crack.... check under the truck and follow the hoses from the canister (it's in front of the gas tank) check them for damage and make sure they are all connected.

The gas cap can also cause and evap code but not the large leak code generally, but it might be worth checking.  If the cap doesn't seal properly it will throw a code

Most common problem on these and the dakota was a evap harness
under the hood that would rot and leak, spend the money and get a
smoke test it will save you time and frustration in the long run.