NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2020 Dodge Durango Safety Ratings
The 2020 Dodge Durango scores 76 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Average), with a 4-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 53 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2020 Dodge Durango presents a mixed safety profile, reflected in its NHTSA Safety Index of 76/100, which positions it in the Average band. While federal crash-test data reveals areas of genuine strength, a notably weak rollover rating merits close consideration. Furthermore, two distinct recall campaigns have been issued, requiring immediate attention for owners or prospective buyers.
The 2020 Dodge Durango received a NHTSA Safety Index of 76 out of 100 and a 3-star NHTSA rollover rating, based on federal NHTSA crash-test and recall data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 107 SUVs from 2020 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2020 Dodge Durango ranks 89 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 76 / 100 (Average) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 4 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 3 stars |
| Rollover risk | 21.2% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 53 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 89 of 107 SUVs tested for 2020 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2020 Dodge Durango?
The 2020 Dodge Durango presents a consistent, if unremarkable, safety profile, earning a Safety Index of 76/100, mirroring its 2019 predecessor. The most significant vulnerability for this three-row SUV, likely to transport families, is its 21 percent rollover risk, reflected in a 3-star rollover rating. Crash protection forms a reasonably strong foundation for the Durango's overall score, contributing 57 out of a possible 70 points, bolstered by a 5-star side impact rating. However, avoidance technology accounts for only 4.5 out of 10 points. This low score directly results from forward collision warning being an optional feature and the complete absence of lane departure warning. The defect record further impacts the Safety Index, scoring 14.25 out of 20, due to two active recall campaigns. Of particular concern is the SABIC fastener recall, which involves a component critical to occupant protection during a crash. The 2020 Durango is an average-band vehicle, with a notable, addressable weakness in its passive safety architecture.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2020 Dodge Durango perform in crash tests?
The 2020 Dodge Durango achieved a 4 out of 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its side impact protection proved exceptional, earning a full 5 stars, while frontal crash tests resulted in a strong 4-star rating. Rollover resistance was the Durango's weakest area in NHTSA's assessment, rated at 3 out of 5 stars with a 21 percent rollover risk. The dynamic tip test concluded with a "No Tip" outcome.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14272
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2020 Dodge Durango have any recalls?
Two recall campaigns cover this model year. The first targets Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain fasteners that may be improperly secured, a critical safety component. The second, which includes an over-the-air software fix, addresses the backup camera sensing system. Neither campaign has been designated a do-not-drive order, but both warrant VIN verification.
AIR BAGS:CRITICAL FASTENERS21V280000
Risk: A loose or missing fastener may cause the side curtain air bag to deploy incorrectly, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will tighten or replace the fastener, free of charge. Owner notification letters were sent on May 7, 2021. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Y16.
Reported 2021-04-22
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA20V191000
Risk: The lingering rearview image can distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will update the radio display software, free of charge. Optionally, owners can choose to remotely update their software via an Over-The-Air (OTA) update available as of May 1, 2020. The recall began April 27, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W30-W37.
Reported 2020-09-10
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2020 Dodge Durango?
Fifty-three unverified consumer complaints have been reported to NHTSA for this model year. The most frequently alleged problem areas are Exterior Lighting with 20 reports, the Electrical System with 8, and the Engine with 7. Allegations also include 3 reported fire incidents and 5 reported injuries, all unverified.
53 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2020 Dodge Durango?
Shoppers considering this 6-year-old Durango should run the VIN through NHTSA's recall database before purchase. Both recall campaigns, the SABIC fastener fix and the backup camera software update, may or may not have been completed by the prior owner. Confirm remedy status directly.
- The 2020 Durango carries an active recall for Side Air Bag Inflatable Curtain fasteners that may be loose, a defect directly affecting crash protection for this specific model year.
- The rollover rating of 3 out of 5 stars and a 21 percent rollover risk are the lowest crash-test scores recorded for this model year, a meaningful consideration for buyers prioritizing rollover safety.
- The avoidance technology sub-score of 4.5 out of 10 reflects that forward collision warning was not standard equipment on this model year, meaning many 2020 Durango units on the used market may lack it entirely.
- Fifty-three unverified complaints reported to NHTSA for this model year include allegations involving Exterior Lighting and three alleged fire incidents, making it worth reviewing the full NHTSA complaint record before purchase.
RANKINGSWhere the 2020 Dodge Durango places
The 2020 Dodge Durango qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2020 Dodge Durango safety questions
Was the 2020 Dodge Durango crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2020 Dodge Durango, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 76 out of 100, placing it in the Average band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2020 Dodge Durango crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2020 Dodge Durango earned 4 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 3 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 21.2%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2020 Dodge Durango have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2020 Dodge Durango. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2020 Dodge Durango?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 53 owner complaints are on file for the 2020 Dodge Durango. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a fire.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Durango years
Rivals in SUV (2020)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Infiniti Qx50 | 94/100 | 5 of 5 | 2 |
| 2020 Mazda CX-3 | 94/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2020 Mazda CX-30 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 3 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T5 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T6 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2020 Volvo Xc90 T8 | 93/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 14272), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Dodge Durango 2020.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 89 of 107 in the SUV class for 2020.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.