MODEL
Dodge Journey Safety
NHTSA safety across every Dodge Journey model year we cover.
Across the 2 model years of the Dodge Journey we cover (2019 to 2020), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2020 at 80 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 78. 2 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Dodge Journey is a three-row midsize SUV that has been aimed at budget-conscious families seeking passenger capacity without a minivan price tag. Sold in its final production years as a 2019 and 2020 model, the Journey occupies the affordable end of the family hauler segment. Its appeal has always centered on practicality and value, making the safety picture especially important for shoppers prioritizing their passengers.
For its final model year, the 2020 Dodge Journey achieved an 80 out of 100 Safety Index score, placing it in the Strong band. This result stands as the highest within the covered period for the vehicle. The crash-test results present a detailed picture: frontal impact protection earned 4 out of 5 stars, while side-impact protection received a full 5 out of 5 stars. Rollover protection rated at 4 out of 5 stars. Across the 2019 and 2020 model years, federal data indicates 2 recalls, a low number consistent with a vehicle nearing the end of its production cycle. Owner complaints totaled 153 for these two years, including 7 alleged crashes, 4 reported injuries, and 1 fire. These complaints offer insight but are unverified. The Journey delivers passable safety performance for its segment, marked by strong side protection and its 2020 Safety Index score, but without the advanced safety attributes of more recently designed competitors.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally acknowledge that the Dodge Journey delivers entry-level family utility at an accessible price, but they consistently note that the platform was long in the tooth by its final years. Most professional assessments position it as a pragmatic choice for buyers on a tight budget rather than a benchmark in its segment, with driving dynamics and interior quality often drawing measured criticism alongside its affordability.
- The 2020 model year earns the highest Safety Index score in our covered window at 80 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band, so if you are choosing between final model years, the 2020 has a measurable edge in our data.
- Side-impact crash protection is the Journey's strongest result, earning 5 out of 5 stars in the best test year, which is meaningful for a family SUV where rear-seat passengers including children are often positioned near door panels.
- Only 2 recalls are on record across the 2019 to 2020 coverage period, a low figure, but shoppers should verify any open recall status through NHTSA's VIN lookup tool before purchase since recall completion rates vary widely on older inventory.
- 153 owner complaints have been filed across both covered years, including 7 alleged crash incidents and 4 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but the volume is worth monitoring, and reviewing complaint categories on NHTSA's site can help identify any patterns relevant to your intended use.
Most-recalled year on record: 2020 Dodge Journey with 1 recalls.