Over time, the valvetrain in my engine became gradually louder. Because there were no check engine lights or fault codes, I initially assumed this was a normal characteristic of the engine. That changed on January 2, 2026, when I began to hear a pronounced knocking/loud tapping noise accompanied by a cylinder 8 misfire. At that point, I stopped driving the vehicle and had it towed to a repair shop. Based on the symptoms, we initially believed the issue would be limited to a camshaft and lifter replacement. However, after draining the oil and cutting open the oil filter, a significant amount of metal debris was discovered. Further inspection revealed that one camshaft lobe had been worn down nearly smooth and the corresponding lifter had failed. When the camshaft was removed for full evaluation, all other lobes showed normal, even wear. Only the lobe associated with the failed lifter exhibited catastrophic damage beyond repair. As a result of the metal contamination throughout the engine, a full engine replacement was required rather than a repair of individual components. The basis of my complaint is that this failure appears to be a well-documented and common issue with the 6.4L HEMI engine equipped with MDS. I have since reviewed numerous reports and forum discussions describing nearly identical failures—often beginning with increased valvetrain noise, followed by a single-cylinder misfire and extensive internal damage. This was not the result of neglect or abuse, but rather a known failure mode that ultimately led to the complete loss of the engine.
2018 Dodge Durango: misfire or rough idle
6 of the 234 complaints about the 2018 Dodge Durango describe misfire or rough idle.
- owner complaints
- 6
- of this car's complaints
- 3%
- recalls
- 0
Misfire or rough idle by model year
What owners say
While driving on the Thruway, the vehicle tends to misfire which results in lost power to the engine and shaking of the vehicle. The check engine light starts flashing and it becomes unsafe to maintain speeds. The issue was diagnosed as Cylinder 5 Misfire caused by camshaft and lifter failure. This sudden loss of power while driving at highway speeds could cause an accident if it happens during traffic or passing situations. This is a known issue with the 2018 Dodge Durango GT V6 and should be a recall on the vehicle. This is a major engine issue.
My vehicle began to misfire after driving roughly 8 miles, check engine light would flash and ding. After shutting vehicle off for a while and restarting it, problem would be gone until driving approximately 8 miles. Brought to Chrysler service center, where they reproduced the problem and determined it is a camshaft or camshaft related issue. Vehicle is parked at that service center awaiting parts that are backordered until January. Vehicle cannot be driven in this condition. If the camshaft fails catastrophically, it could destroy the entire engine, putting myself and whoever else is in the vehicle in danger.
3.6L V6 Engine, Auto Start/Stop light came on followed by check engine light. Codes for multiple misfires, replaced multiple coils and replaced all spark plugs. After all was replaced, still had the same issues. Took it to a local Dodge dealership and they said it was a head gasket but it would have to be sent off to figure out which one.
2018 Dodge Durango GT with 47,000. The check engine light came on. Took it to a Dodge dealer for service. Diagnosis was head gasket failure, allowing coolant into the cylinder causing engine misfire and potential overheat and a blown engine. This appears to be an ongoing issue with the Penstar V6 engine. This is a safety concern because the vehicle may break down while driving or overheat without warning, creating a power loss while driving
Throwing codes of of lost communication of body control module and cylinder 3 misfire.
Service bulletins that may apply
- Engine PNs: MY 24-26 WD/DT (5.7L) Code P00B is being misdiagnosed and incorrect parts are being installed...
- Cooler - engine oil
- Flash: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Updates Customers must experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp...
- Water Pump & Chain Case Cover
- Isolator - engine mount
- Hose- Oil Cooler Inlet, Outlet
- Engine Oil Leak
- Engine Rattle Noise
Related recalls
No recalls on record for this model year.
Questions about the 2018 Dodge Durango misfire
Is misfire or rough idle a common problem on the 2018 Dodge Durango?
6 of 234 owner complaints about the 2018 Dodge Durango (3%) mention misfire or rough idle. The model year with the most reports is 2004.
Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 2018 Dodge Durango?
There are 0 recalls and 62 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.
Other symptoms on the 2018 Dodge Durango
Check engine light 24Backup camera 22Water leak 7ABS 6Screen failure 6Stalling 6Engine failure 5Headlights 5Loss of power 5Warning lights 5
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