Questions and Answers

A Doggy Dodge Durango
Q. Dear Vince, Here is my problem, I purchased a used 2005 Dodge Durango last Saturday and it was doing fine. But over the past couple of days I have noticed several things about the engine, acceleration and shifting gears.

When I maintain a speed, say 45 mph, then the truck starts to jerk. When I start from 0 at the line and just accelerate at a normal speed it seems as though the truck is not shifting properly. I am not really sure that there are problems but from reading some of the things that others have written to you with regard to their Durango's and the transmission, it all sounds familiar.

I used to drive a 1998 Saturn SL2 5 speed manual with a 3.8 and we also had a 1995 Isuzu Trooper that was an automatic but I don't know what size the engine was. This truck feels more like driving the 1995 Trooper than a newer vehicle. When I was going over an overpass I just went normally but it wasn't picking up speed so I pushed the accelerator and the gears shifted and I made it over.

Please let me know what you think.

• 2005 Dodge Durango Limited
• 4.7 liter Magnum V-8
• Automatic transmission
• 22,400 miles

Sincerely,
J. Courtney Reilly
Jacksonville, Florida

A. I would take it to a Dodge Dealer and drive another truck just like yours and see how it acts. Just so you have something to compare it too. Then go to the Service Manager and discuss your concerns with him or her.

If you don't feel like he is doing anything for you or not doing enough, then you can call contact Daimler Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403, file a complaint and request an appointment with the Factory representative. I have a feeling the person who sold you the truck also soul you his headache.

A 1998 Saturn SL2 with a 5-speed and 3.8 liter engine? That thing must have screamed down the highway!