Electrical (remote start) and Mechanical Problems

The transmission problem sounds like something that needs to be corrected. There is a TSB out there that's supposed to make the engine run smoother, but I don't know if it's related to this problem. As for the remote start, it will only run for 15 minutes or so, and then shut off if you don't hit the button in the car with the key in your pocket to officially turn it on.

The Durango drives very nice, but it ain't no Saab Aero. Then again Saabs are notorious for quirky problems like the one you're having. I hope everything is fixed in short order.

Dropped it off at dealership today. On the way I noticed that the shifting problem was from 3rd to 4th, not 4th to 5th. Also, it hesitates to go into drive. I'm thinking this is computer related issue. 400 on the OD and already in the shop. I cant say the Saab did any better but I still love the car.

The remote start problem has to do with the CEL. It will start by remote but only run for a few minutes or until you open the door at which time it shuts off. I think the system is programmed to behave this way when there is an obvious error (i.e. CEL).

My wife got stranded because of this damn FOB. unlocks the doors but wouldnt start. Turns out it was a bad FOB and the dealer replaced it.

However, I have read that you can take off the start button to start it. Is that true?

I want to try it, but it looks pretty snug and dont want to jack anything.

Anyone know about this or any other solution for a non starting FOB?

Yep, you should be able to pop the start button out and insert the fob and crank the vehicle.

jkelly16 said:

Yep, you should be able to pop the start button out and insert the fob and crank the vehicle.

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Insert the FOB? are you talking about that rectangle end of the FOB?

If so, how does that prevent someone else from popping off the cover and using a similar shape tool to start the car?

Thanks

Yes, that's what you do. The fob is coded for your vehicle so any fob will not start it.

jkelly16 said:

Yes, that's what you do. The fob is coded for your vehicle so any fob will not start it.

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Yep, there is also an actual old fashioned key inside the fob that you can use to start the car as well. The dealer really should have gone over all that with you when you bought it. There was all sorts of stuff that I had to figure out for myself too. It's amazing what they don't take the time to do.

ognarud said:

Yep, there is also an actual old fashioned key inside the fob that you can use to start the car as well. The dealer really should have gone over all that with you when you bought it. There was all sorts of stuff that I had to figure out for myself too. It's amazing what they don't take the time to do.

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Now that you mention it, I just noticed the little slide that pops the key out.

To my knowledge the "old fashion" key will not start the car only unlock it, and you can lock the glove boxes and bed (truck) and remove that key if you valet your car.

I will try tonight in the RAM, and I dunno if I would pop my auto start button off in the Durango.

RyanDale said:

New Durango owner here. Joining the forum to see if anyone else is having or had the same problems as I.

Just bought a charcoal RT for the wife. She asked me to take it for a spin yesterday eveing because it was acting funny earlier in the day. I started the Durango from the key fob. As soon as I opened the door the engine shut-off. I thought is was strange and proceeded to start from the dash button. Truck drove fine through the neighborhood. As soon as I got onto the highway I immediately noticed something fishy with the transmission. The shift timing was off and somewhat sporadic, especially from 4th to 5th. Right before shifting from 4th gear the RPMs would jump about 1.5-2k from previous state. As the RPMs spiked torque dropped off. Finally 5th gear would engage with a moderate thud. In the midst of driving the CEL turned on.

I bought the Durango for the wife so I can have my Saab Aero back. I hope this is a fluke. The appointment with Dodge is on Friday. I'll update the thread as the saga unfolds. Anyone else with a similar experience?

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RyanDale, I have a 2012 Durango R/T with the 6 speed, 360 miles, and the same transmission problem. What was the outcome?