Check Engine Light Dodge Journey: Step-by-Step Fix
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This step-by-step guide walks you through diagnosing and fixing the Journey’s check engine light so you can complete emissions checks without surprises.
- Applies to: Journey model years 2012–2020.
- Tools: Enhanced OBD-II scanner (Mode $06$), smoke machine, fuel pressure gauge, DVOM, mechanical oil-pressure gauge.
- Immediate warning: A flashing MIL indicates severe misfire—reduce load and diagnose ignition/fuel components immediately.
Common Journey Codes and Fixes
| Code | Subsystem | Likely Cause | First Checks |
|---|---|---|---|
| P0300/P030x | Ignition/Fuel | Coils, spark plugs, injector imbalance, compression loss | Review misfire counters, inspect plugs/coils, swap components, run compression/leak-down tests. |
| P0430/P0420 | Catalyst | Efficiency loss due to misfire or exhaust leak | Check misfire history, inspect exhaust manifolds, compare O2 sensor waveforms. |
| P2096/P2098 | Fuel Trim | Post-cat lean condition | Smoke-test intake/exhaust, inspect PCV valve, monitor fuel trims at idle and highway speeds. |
| P0456/P0457 | EVAP | Loose cap, cracked hoses, ESIM leak | Verify fuel cap seal, command purge closed, apply smoke via EVAP service port. |
| P06DD/P06DE | Oil Pump Control | Dual-stage pump stuck or wiring issue | Confirm Mopar filter, measure mechanical oil pressure, inspect harness near filter housing. |
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Plan
- Baseline capture: Log all DTCs, freeze-frame data, Mode $06$ misfire counts, and fuel trims before clearing.
- Resolve misfires: Replace spark plugs, swap coils, check injector pulse, and perform compression testing.
- Fix fuel-trim/catalyst issues: Repair intake/exhaust leaks, then road-test while graphing O2 sensors and trims.
- Check oil pump control: For P06DD/P06DE, attach a mechanical gauge to confirm oil pressure and inspect wiring.
- Seal the EVAP system: Command purge closed, smoke-test, and repair hoses, ESIM module, or filler neck leaks.
- Validate repair: Clear codes, drive 50 miles with mixed conditions, and re-scan for readiness and pending/permanent DTCs.
Preventive Maintenance
- Change oil every 6,000 miles with MS-6395 5W-20 and Mopar filter.
- Replace spark plugs at 100,000 miles (3.6L) or 60,000 miles (2.4L).
- Inspect PCV assembly, intake manifold gaskets, and purge hoses at each service.
- Check exhaust manifold studs annually; leaks trigger catalyst codes.
- Test battery voltage twice a year to prevent voltage-related misfires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the MIL come back after clearing?
If the root cause isn’t fixed, the PCM reruns diagnostics and logs the code again. Repair the underlying issue first.
No. Misfires require ignition, fuel, or mechanical repairs. Use the recommended octane and fix the source.
How long should I drive after repairs?
Drive about 50 miles with city, cruise, and idle to confirm readiness monitors and keep the MIL off.