2002 Dodge Durango Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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Whether you call it an SUV or a truck (it's based on the Dodge Dakota and shares many features), the Dodge Durango easily makes the switch from transporting cargo to transporting your kid's soccer pals.
Joining the Sport, SLT, SLT Plus, and R/T trims in 2002 is the new SXT, featuring graphite trim, 16-inch wheels, and a roof rack. The 4.7-liter, V6, 235-hp engine comes standard with all models, 2WD and 4WD, while the 5.9-liter V8, 245-hp engine comes standard with the R/T and is an option in SLT models.
Mid-year 2002 saw a new 5-speed automatic transmission that came standard in the 4.7 V8, with the promise of improving the fuel efficiency, which really isn't saying much for an SUV as big as the Dodge Durango, which is rated at 14/19 mpg. Listening to consumers, or simply aware of its poor safety ratings, the 2002 Dodge Durango enhanced its safety features by adding curtain-side airbags for the front and second row seats. A dealer-installed DVD system was also available.
Most Dodge owners love the lines of the Durango and the engine power, that makes hauling loads easy and fast. The handling gets high marks, especially around curves and in poor road conditions. But that pesky repair record and low fuel economy are big disappointments for owners.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2002 Dodge Durango
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Paul S
May 16, 2024
Ive owned multiple Dodge trucks mainly Dakotas and a nitro and out of those 2 I really liked my Dodge nitro the most May 16, 2024
by Phillip H W
Feb 03, 2022
Personally, Im a Mopar enthusiasts, but there are some things to view closely with the 2002. The 4.7 engine is very durable. Annual tune-up and oil changes with a high-mileage heavy weight oil and they wont let you down. The problem with them is the A/C condensers go bad and the transmission speed sensors (input/out) tend to get oil soaked and burn out.Feb 03, 2022
by Sarah A
Mar 30, 2021
Was unsafe for the road. The body was very rusted underneath and falling apartMar 30, 2021
User rating:
by Paul S
May 16, 2024
Ive owned multiple Dodge trucks mainly Dakotas and a nitro and out of those 2 I really liked my Dodge nitro the most May 16, 2024
by Phillip H W
Feb 03, 2022
Personally, Im a Mopar enthusiasts, but there are some things to view closely with the 2002. The 4.7 engine is very durable. Annual tune-up and oil changes with a high-mileage heavy weight oil and they wont let you down. The problem with them is the A/C condensers go bad and the transmission speed sensors (input/out) tend to get oil soaked and burn out.Feb 03, 2022
by Sarah A
Mar 30, 2021
Was unsafe for the road. The body was very rusted underneath and falling apartMar 30, 2021
by Mike P
Mar 13, 2020
GREAT VEHICLE. Well maintained . drives great Mar 13, 2020
by Anonymous
Jun 19, 2014
Liked everything but the mileage on long trips, which I rarely took, which is why the mileage is only 96,000 miles after 12 years. The 3 seats is greats, heated seats up front, air , cruise control, auto windows, the 3rd row seat folds down for more storage. Just a great family vehicle or hauling vehicle for trips.
The looks of the wheels and black exterior and roof top carrier is great too.Jun 19, 2014
by Michael B
Dec 13, 2013
Great versatile truck. Maintenance expenses only. No towing but had front hitch for snow plowing. Lots of room inside. 7 seater with tons of room with seats down. Good stereo and other power options. Superb ride quality with all season tires.Dec 13, 2013
by Anonymous
Jan 25, 2013
this has been a good truck. lots of long drives in pure comfort. gas mileage isn't that bad considering the weight and power of this vehicle. Ive had to pay for a few major repairs (front hubs and ABS sensors and a rebuilt rack and pinion) but it is an older vehicle now with 138,000 mile on it so its not really unexpected. its pleasantly quiet inside while driving (hardly any road noise and no squeaky plastic like Chevy's worthless interiors). Kudos to dodge for making a solid truck!Jan 25, 2013
by Mike M
Jul 17, 2012
Once of the best looking SUV's I've owned. Unfortunately it was by FAR the most unreliable car I've ever owned. So much so that I sold it after 8 months and $4,000 worth of electrical repairs, water pumps, O-2 sensors, and so on. If it weren't for the extremely poor reliability I would love this rig.Jul 17, 2012
by Nicholas R
Mar 31, 2012
I think the car is great. The quality is really great. A strong car that
performs well in many places such as the road, snow even the desert. The
cost of maintenance is very reasonably priced. The drive quality is great as
the shocks are soft.Mar 31, 2012
by Anonymous
Mar 11, 2012
I have tv everywhere even rearview mirror and trying to put 24 on my ride flipdown 15 inch and flip out deck tv i have xbox 360 in my vechicle and also have all tinted windows the lowest legal sizeMar 11, 2012
by Arsalan H
Oct 06, 2011
Amazing SUV with 5.9L (360 cu in) 245HP Megnum V8 under the hood
Muscular and strong body, looks great..nice interior styling with leather upholstery
Monstrous sound
Average Maintenance..good build quality
Great off road performance
good for long trips..
Oct 06, 2011
by Jordan H
Feb 04, 2011
lots of power nad goes throught the snow with ease but is very bad on gas with the 5.9 but its very relieble and runs great and is alot of fun my frieds call it a mini van because it is a 7 seaterFeb 04, 2011
by Gerry K
Oct 27, 2010
02 durango 4.7 v8..audioban subs two amps 2 caps..cats and straight exaust..has
more leave the light power then the older 5.9 liter(360) not one has been able to
take me...but we are talking stock..there is a cam kit i can get for mine ..and would
like to super charge one day ..this is my baby and will never sell it ..you should
have seen it before i started.................Oct 27, 2010
by Gary C
Oct 21, 2010
An SUV that handles like a performance car. Large 5.9l Magnum V8 provides plenty of power for whatever you need. R/T package includes full-time AWD as well as, 4 wheel hi and low. First real Muscle SUV, very fun to drive on track or off-road.Oct 21, 2010
by Jeff J
Sep 21, 2010
In good shape. still adding upgrades. has plenty of power and control. waitin on the snow! goes to denver in no time. bit hills and long drives are no problem. I just really wish it had a lift and a clutch Sep 21, 2010
by Eric G
Aug 23, 2010
Fastest vehicle I have ever owned. AWD is amazing in the deep Ohio snow. Plenty of HP. for towing. Very hard to get the AWD Durango stuck on the snow. Lots of torque... Accidentally popped a few wheelies back in 2005 when I first got it. U have to respect all of that motor.Aug 23, 2010
by Ramilia S
Aug 16, 2010
I will not buy another type of vehicle after being in a wreck, that should have killed all my family and yet did very little damage to the durango. I moved trees out of the way and all it got was a few dings and lost a front license plate. These things are realy built "RAM TOUGH"Aug 16, 2010
by Jayden M
Jul 12, 2010
very good vehicle, could have a little more power. could use something on the side...it has a baer spot. 12-13 mpg very fun to drive. 4wd (automatic) cloth seats (wish it had leather) love the color. wish it was a chevyJul 12, 2010
by Sean J
Jun 04, 2010
This is my 2002 Durango. It has a 360ci engine and seats seven. Since
these pics have been taken I have added a few power adders like a k&n
pro charger kit, a magnaflow stainless cat back exhaust, and a jet
performance chip. The s.u.v. also has a rebuilt trans. built to diesel specs
and a mild shift kit. The gas mileage sucks, but the fun factor makes up
for that.Jun 04, 2010
by Sigurður G
Apr 02, 2010
This is my second Durango, the first one was a 2000 SLT and I got to say the
R/T is much more fun. It sits a litle lover and is firmer on the raod, has the
sport stainles exhaust from Borla, it has the chrome R/T rim´s and the special
R/T lether interior.
It has little over 80.000 miles on the clock and so far I have changed the front
brakes out for slotted & cooled rotors and better pad´s, changed out the
stearing pump, all 4 ball joints with lube able ones and one wheel hub bearing.
For mods I have changed out the
two pice front headlights with one piece chrome headlights and the also the
rear lights with chrome euro alteza lights. I have a 50 Hp super chips in it with
the 5,9 l magnum V8 engine. What can i say I love this truck and I do al the
work on it my self so I am a sucker for the Durango and just love it. Sure it is
thirsty but it delivers everything I ask of it so I am very happy with it. The
performance is exelent, acceleration is about 8 seconds for 0-60 miles, I love
the handling, best handling in an SUV that I have tried. After 80 k miles there
are no squeaks or rattles. The truck still looks like it is brand new inside and out
and I love the styling it looks sporty and is both practical and looks good inside.
I live on a small island so it hardly ever gets to best heat or speed to get good
mileage so it drinks about 30 l per 100 km here but when I go to the mainland it
drinks about 14 to 16 liters per 100 km which is ok for a truck that weighs over
2 tons . Bottom line I love this truck and it will stay with me until one of us dies.Apr 02, 2010
by Mikey R
Mar 31, 2010
Drives very smooth,unreal handling ,awd ,lots of power,5.9 liter 360 Ci motor ,between the power and bigger gear ratio in the r/t 's This truck is just as fast as a stock 4.6 and 5.0 mustang ,many Mustang owners will never believe this, but I have proved it over and over in Nj racing from light to light ,now if it was a cobra I have only kept up with it Mar 31, 2010
by Austin H
Mar 21, 2010
i love my durango. its got alot of power, sounds good, has a good system in it. it costs me quite a bit for ownership, its a really fun car to drive. its white and i want black rims on itMar 21, 2010
by Jovan T
Nov 21, 2009
This is overall one of the best used trucks that you could ever invest in...you can get one in cherry condition for about 4 grand. 6.1 Liter V8...VERY fun car to drive for all activities. point blank. i would recommend this car to any one.Nov 21, 2009
by Heather M
Nov 18, 2009
Loved my Durango, but it was a gas hog. Ran great. Lots of room. At the time I only had one child, therefore was able to take my family on trips & have plenty of room for other stuff. Wish I still had the Dodge.Nov 18, 2009
by Leslie S
Nov 08, 2009
* Performance - acceleration, braking, handling
* Build Quality - Has some hail damage
* Appearance - in good condition
* Cost of Ownership - cost a lot to full it up, maintenance is a little costly
* Fun Factor - is this car fun to drive? some times it isNov 08, 2009
by Eric L
Sep 25, 2009
Passes everything but a gas station. (Bad mileage) Looks good though. Rediculously comfortable with the leather interior. Nice stereo system. Carries up to 7 passengers. All factory features are great. Compass, mileage readout, temp, etc. 4.7 liter Magnum V-8 uses up tires. Will spin all four tires in 4 wheel drive as well. Wicked.....Sep 25, 2009
by Jeff G
Sep 06, 2009
I like that the SUV is big enough to put stuff in the back and it looks pretty cool, however I am a sports car fan and it gets like 15 miles to the gallon, if I wanted a car with gas millage like that, I would want a sports car.Sep 06, 2009
by Eric G
Aug 12, 2009
It is heavy so it takes a while to get from 100 to 0. 360ci. 5.9L. V8. Suede and leather R/T seats. Will pop a wheelie on dry pavement. I towed my 2600lb. 20 foot boat with it and could barely tell it was back there.Aug 12, 2009
by Al Y
Jul 31, 2009
solid vehicle that I have put to the test on the highway for travel, pulling small and large trailers, carrying a canoe on the roof and off roading. It does everything I need in a vehicle and will buy another one when i am readyJul 31, 2009
by Jeff S
Jul 26, 2009
Its loud! single pipe exhaust, flowmaster...its amazing sound draws ladies from all around. Its alright on gas, does not suck it down too fast. Its a really fun truck to drive, pedal to the medal gives a great feeling!Jul 26, 2009
by Eric R
Jun 25, 2009
great performance, no major repairs, looks great IMO, chugs gasoline like a sailor chugs rum, very fun to drive. Great towing capacity, fairly smooth ride, nice interior, easy to hot rod it up with aftermarket parts, lots of room inside.Jun 25, 2009
by Sara W
Jun 19, 2009
I really like the looks of the older Dodge Durangos. I think they look tougher than your average SUV type vehicle. I call it a truck but the title says otherwise...what do they know? :o)
There is lots of room in it for all the kids and stuff I haul around and no one ever whines about being crammed in on top of one another.
The biggest disappointment I have about this "truck" is the handling in less than ideal conditions. It doesn't feel like it's likely to roll, but the sway in the rear end is sometimes scary and the steering wheel kinda wobbles funny when I hit a bump in the road.
Part of this could be that the vehicle needs to have some things checked out. Might just be a maintenance issue and not a fault in the make of the Durango...idk yet....need to take it in and have it checked over. I know there are some recalls on the front suspension, that's probably at least part of the problem.Jun 19, 2009
by Paul J
Apr 29, 2009
My Durango was probably one of the most reliable vehicles I ever owned. In 3 years and 76,000 miles, all I did to that truck was brakes, a battery, and tires. Very, very reliable. Gas mileage wasn't too great but when I bought it, gas was cheap and I could fill it up for $30. A very comfortable ride with a lot of room for other people to come along with me. Apr 29, 2009
by Sigurður G
Mar 18, 2009
I love everything about my 2002 Dodge Durango R/T. Yeah sure it drinks gas but its worth it. I do everthing my self and all I have to do is tune up, oil change and breaks. My dream ride for sure.Mar 18, 2009
by Anonymous
Oct 24, 2008
I Love the durando, its got the room and power that I need as well as the capability of being modded the hell out. The 4.7 is not to shabby on take off and the gas mileage isnt too good for driving back and forth to work but on the long trips to NY you cant beat itOct 24, 2008
by Beth M
Oct 19, 2008
Performance-its wonderful! The only problem ive had is going wayy too fast :D,the Build Quality-is ggrreeaatt!Apperance-it couldnt be better!Cost of ownership-gas milage could be better and gas price ,and the only thing Ive had to replace is a few gas caps lol Fun Factor-on a scale of 1 to 10 its a 1,000!!!!I really love my car and the size is a plus!Oct 19, 2008
by Heather J
Jul 19, 2008
I LOVE my truck! I couldnt ask for anything better. It rides, well, handles well, and does great with anything I throw at it! I've added a few things to make it fit more my style, and still get decent gas mileage. 18-20 on the highway and about 13-16 around town.Jul 19, 2008
by Michael M
Mar 23, 2008
I have used it for everything from towing boats, to carrying around a bunch of my friends, its been on long trips, and its seen plenty of time off-road and on dirt roads. It handles and performs very well for an SUV. I've only had to make minor repairs which were probably the cause of my abuse than the reliability of the truck. She has 65k miles and still runs like new. The interior is nice, especially in the slt plus. all the controls are easy to use and in reach of the driver. I've yet to experience any major trouble with the transmission, but it definitly isn't at its best and Durangos are known for that. If you're in the market for a used SUV or need a vehicle to handle multiple tasks, i recommend a Durango.Mar 23, 2008
by Ron T
Jan 07, 2008
built solid strong motor & trans love the 4wd & power everythingJan 07, 2008
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2002 dodge durango idling hard and stalling
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Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2002 Dodge Durango?Compare this car
2002 Dodge Durango Pricing
Original MSRP
$26,025 to $37,545Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.55
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.55
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: rear-only
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.55
Exterior Features
Skid plate(s): front and rear
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: rear-only
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.55
Exterior Features
Skid plate(s): front and rear
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: split-bench · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Infinity · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.55
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: 40-20-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: split-bench · Upholstery: cloth
Third Row Seat
Type: bench
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Infinity · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.55 · Locking differential: center
Exterior Features
Skid plate(s): front and rear
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: 40-20-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: split-bench · Upholstery: cloth
Third Row Seat
Type: bench
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Infinity · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: rear-only
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.55
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: 40-20-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Third Row Seat
Type: bench
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Infinity · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.55 · Locking differential: center
Exterior Features
Skid plate(s): front and rear
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: 40-20-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Third Row Seat
Type: bench
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Infinity · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: rear-only
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.92 · Limited slip differential: rear · Locking differential: center
Exterior Features
Skid plate(s): front and rear
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: 40-20-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Third Row Seat
Type: bench
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent