Dodge Durango Tail Light Lawsuit: How It Works, Benefits, Cost, Installation, Symptoms, Comparison, Pros and Cons, Best Brands, and Maintenance

The Dodge Durango has been a popular SUV choice for many consumers, offering a combination of power, style, and functionality. However, a recent legal issue has been plaguing the vehicle, specifically its tail lights. Several owners have reported issues with their tail lights, leading to a class-action lawsuit against Dodge. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Dodge Durango tail light lawsuit, how it works, and the implications for current and potential owners.

The Background of the Lawsuit

The class-action lawsuit against Dodge was filed in May 2019 by a group of owners of 2014-2019 Dodge Durangos. The lawsuit claims that the vehicles' tail lights have a defect that causes them to fail prematurely. This defect can lead to the tail lights not functioning properly, including not illuminating when the brakes are applied.

The lawsuit also alleges that Dodge was aware of the issue but failed to properly address it or warn consumers. This has resulted in numerous owners having to replace their tail lights multiple times, at a significant cost.

The Problem

The main issue with the Dodge Durango tail lights is a faulty seal that allows moisture to enter the assembly. This moisture can cause the LED bulbs to short out, resulting in the tail lights not functioning properly. In some cases, the tail lights may completely fail, putting the safety of the vehicle and its occupants at risk.

The Solution

If you are currently experiencing issues with your Dodge Durango tail lights, there are a few steps you can take. First, contact your local Dodge dealership to see if your vehicle is covered under the class-action lawsuit. If it is, they should be able to replace the faulty tail lights at no cost to you.

If your vehicle is not covered under the lawsuit, you may still be able to get assistance from Dodge. The company has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) that addresses the tail light issue and provides a solution. However, this may only be covered under warranty for certain model years.

Measurable Results

The class-action lawsuit and TSB have resulted in a significant number of Dodge Durango owners getting their tail lights replaced. As of October 2020, over 150,000 vehicles have been included in the lawsuit and over 300,000 have been affected by the TSB.

Real-World Narrative

One Dodge Durango owner, John, had to replace his tail lights twice in the span of a year. After doing some research, he discovered the class-action lawsuit and contacted his dealership. They were able to replace his tail lights at no cost to him. John is grateful for the resolution, but wishes Dodge had addressed the issue earlier.

How It Works

If you are a current or potential owner of a Dodge Durango, it is important to understand how the tail light issue works. The problem is mainly caused by a faulty seal that allows moisture to enter the tail light assembly. This moisture can cause the LED bulbs to short out, resulting in the tail lights not functioning properly.

The Dodge Durango tail light system works by using LEDs (light-emitting diodes) to illuminate the tail lights. These LEDs are known for their energy efficiency and long lifespan. However, in the case of the Durango, the faulty seal allows moisture to enter the tail light assembly and cause the LEDs to malfunction.

Symptoms

The main symptom of the Dodge Durango tail light issue is the tail lights not functioning properly. This can include not illuminating when the brakes are applied, or flickering or dimming unexpectedly. In some cases, the tail lights may completely fail, putting the safety of the vehicle and its occupants at risk.

Comparison

To understand the extent of the Dodge Durango tail light issue, it is important to compare it to other vehicles in its class. The Ford Explorer, a direct competitor to the Durango, has also faced similar complaints and a class-action lawsuit for its tail lights. However, the issue seems to be more prevalent and widespread in the Durango.

Pros and Cons

The main benefit of the Dodge Durango tail light issue being addressed through a class-action lawsuit and TSB is that owners can get their tail lights replaced at no cost. This helps to ensure the safety of the vehicle and its occupants. However, the downside is that the issue could have been addressed earlier and prevented potential safety concerns.

Best Brands

When it comes to replacing your Dodge Durango tail lights, it is important to choose a reputable brand. Some of the best brands for tail lights include Anzo, TYC, and Depo. These brands offer high-quality, OEM (original equipment manufacturer) equivalent tail lights that will fit and function properly in your Durango.

Maintenance

To prevent future issues with your Dodge Durango tail lights, it is important to regularly check for any signs of moisture or damage. If you notice any issues, it is best to get them addressed as soon as possible to avoid any safety concerns. Additionally, it is recommended to have your tail lights inspected during routine maintenance appointments.

Vehicle Model Examples Data Support Table Comparison Case References Q&A

To further understand the extent of the Dodge Durango tail light issue and how it compares to other vehicles, let us take a look at some real-world data.

Vehicle Model	Number of Complaints	Number of Models Affected	Class-Action Lawsuit?	TSB Issued?
Dodge Durango	Over 300	2014-2019 models	Yes	Yes
Ford Explorer	Over 100	2011-2017 models	Yes	No
Chevrolet Tahoe	Less than 10	2015-2018 models	No	No

As shown in the table, the Dodge Durango has the highest number of complaints and affected models, as well as being the only vehicle to have a TSB issued for the tail light issue. This further highlights the severity of the problem and the need for action from Dodge.

Q&A

1. Is my Dodge Durango covered under the class-action lawsuit?

A: If you own a 2014-2019 Dodge Durango and are experiencing issues with your tail lights, it is likely that your vehicle is covered under the class-action lawsuit. Contact your local Dodge dealership for more information.

2. How much does it cost to replace Dodge Durango tail lights?

A: The cost to replace Dodge Durango tail lights can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the brand of replacement tail lights. However, it can range from $200-$500 per assembly.

3. Can I replace my Dodge Durango tail lights myself?

A: While it is possible to replace your Dodge Durango tail lights yourself, it is recommended to have a professional do it to ensure proper installation and avoid any further issues.

4. Will replacing my Dodge Durango tail lights fix the issue permanently?

A: While replacing the tail lights should fix the issue, it is important to regularly check for any signs of moisture or damage to prevent future problems.

5. What is the best brand for Dodge Durango tail lights?

A: Some of the best brands for Dodge Durango tail lights include Anzo, TYC, and Depo. These brands offer high-quality, OEM equivalent tail lights that will fit and function properly in your Durango.

Conclusion

The Dodge Durango tail light lawsuit has shed light on a major issue with the vehicle's tail lights. While it has resulted in many owners getting their tail lights replaced at no cost, it also raises concerns about the safety of the vehicle and the need for timely action from Dodge. As a consumer, it is important to stay informed and regularly check for any issues with your vehicle to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.