I've had a 2004 Durango Limited with the Hemi for the last eight years. It has 140,000 miles. The AC compressor is noisy (but still blows cold) and there is an exhaust shield underneath that rattles at idle. It has a Small EVAP leak code. It runs well and has never had any major problems. My father recently passed and he had been a Honda mechanic since 1974. He had a 2006 Ridgeline that he maintained very well and kept good records of all the maintenance. He used to trailer his Harley with it and the Ridgeline now has 193,000 miles and needs a brake job. I now have the Ridgeline. I've always wanted a vehicle with a quad cab and a bed, but I also really like the smooth quiet ride of the V8 Dodge. My question is, since I can only keep one, should I keep the Durango or the Ridgeline?
Lose the Dodge. You'll be glad you did.
EVERYBODY seems to think that would be a very bad idea.
Why are you surprised?
It’s not even a difficult choice, unless you’re attached to it..
Contrarian view: Contemporary makers are phasing out V8 engines. The Dodge will likely hold its value very well in upcoming years and may appreciate. Not so the Honda.
Personally I would keep the Honda unless I was going to tow with it. But there is a good case for the Durango too.
First Gen or Second Gen Durango?
Its a tough choice. My brain says Ridgeline, but my heart says Durango. And I really like Honda.
I think Chrysler knocked it out of the park with the first gen styling, and to a certain extent the early second gen (not the facelift second gen). All that personality is gone on the third gen+.
First year of the second generation...
Update: My Durango's AC compressor locked up on my way home from a long trip. I replaced the compressor and receiver/dryer. Now she blows ice cold again.- but for how long?
Gotta say, I saw a Ridgeline the other day going down the road with a brand new refrigerator in the bed. Can't do that with the Durango.
I spent a large portion of the day cleaning and detailing the interior of the Ridgeline. As neighbors stopped by, they all said they would keep the high mileage Honda over the Durango. Seems like keeping the Durango would be an emotional decision as EVERYBODY seems to think that would be a very bad idea.