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2017 Dodge Durango GT - Coolant Leak & Overheating Concerns

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Diana O. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Dodge Durango GT

Hey everyone,

I'm reaching out about an issue with my 2017 Dodge Durango GT, which has the 3.6L V6 engine. For the past few weeks, I've been noticing a sweet smell, and I've had to add coolant more frequently than usual. I finally spotted a small puddle under the front of the vehicle after it's been parked for a while.

Yesterday, the temperature gauge started creeping up higher than normal, especially in stop-and-go traffic, and I'm worried about overheating. There's no check engine light on yet, but this is definitely concerning. The vehicle has around 85,000 miles.

Has anyone with a V6 Durango experienced similar coolant leaks or overheating issues? What are the common failure points for the cooling system on these models? Any advice on what to check first would be great!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:39 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A coolant leak combined with rising temperature gauge readings in your 2017 Dodge Durango GT (3.6L V6) is a serious issue that needs immediate attention to prevent engine damage. The sweet smell and puddles are classic signs of an external coolant leak.

Common Causes of Coolant Leaks & Overheating (3.6L V6):

  1. Water Pump Failure: This is a very common failure point on the 3.6L Pentastar engine. The water pump can develop leaks from its shaft seal or gasket, often visible near the front of the engine.
  2. Radiator Leaks: Over time, radiators can develop cracks in the plastic end tanks or corrosion in the aluminum core, leading to leaks.
  3. Hoses & Clamps: Degraded rubber hoses (upper, lower, heater hoses) or loose/corroded clamps can cause leaks, especially under pressure.
  4. Thermostat Housing: The plastic thermostat housing can crack or its gasket can fail, leading to leaks.
  5. Coolant Reservoir/Overflow Tank: Cracks in the plastic tank itself or a faulty cap can cause coolant loss.
  6. Heater Core: While less likely to cause an external puddle, a leaking heater core can cause a sweet smell inside the cabin and contribute to coolant loss.

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Visual Inspection: With the engine cool, carefully inspect all visible hoses, the radiator, water pump area, and the thermostat housing for signs of dried coolant residue (often pink/orange/green crusty buildup).
  2. Pressure Test: A cooling system pressure tester can be rented or purchased. This tool allows you to pressurize the system when the engine is cold, making leaks much easier to spot as coolant will drip or spray.
  3. Check Coolant Level & Condition: Ensure the coolant reservoir is filled to the correct level. Note if the coolant appears rusty or sludgy, which could indicate other issues.

When to See a Shop:

If you're unable to locate the leak yourself, or if the leak appears to be from a difficult-to-access component like the water pump or radiator, it's crucial to take your Durango to a professional mechanic. Continuing to drive with a significant coolant leak and overheating can lead to severe engine damage, including a blown head gasket or warped cylinder heads. A shop can perform a thorough pressure test, use UV dye to pinpoint elusive leaks, and safely replace the faulty components.

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