2016 Dodge Durango exterior lighting problems

“The Rear License Plate Light bulb (right) was out and I went to have the bulb replaced. I was quoted over $1100 from the dealer, as the LED racetrack lighting was not properly sealed and is collecting water. The collection of water within the light compartment has caused corrosion within, and the wiring to disintegrate. This is a commonly known, yet not addressed safety issue by DODGE. My vehicle will not pass the MA Safety Inspection at the end of the month. I have read on-line many, many complaints, as well as have spoken to other Durango owners who have experienced this same problem. I have already replaced the racetrack lighting ONCE on this vehicle due to water collection and the brake lights not properly working. THIS IS A KNOWN SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED.”

“Rear racetrack led lighting is failing. One segment has gone dark. You can only replace the entire assembly for over &1500. I found on line there is a class action lawsuit regarding exactly what I am seeing”

“The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Durango. The contact stated that upon visual inspection, the contact became aware that the rear exterior lighting was not functioning properly. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but did not assist. The failure mileage was unknown.”

“The lighting system allowed water to enter the lights, causing them to fail as they filled up (from bottom to top) to the point that they won't properly indicate running lights or brake lights. This failure has been slowly occuring over the course of 4 years until it now fails to pass the safety inspection.”

“Around Thanksgiving of this year (2022), I noticed that my taillight housing for the center LED Racetrack lighting on my 2016 Dodge Durango was retaining water. I found this odd because light housings are supposed to be sealed and not allow water to enter. If water gets in, the electrical is at risk and lights can be shorted out or even cause an electrical fire. I conducted research and have found that this is a common issue with the Dodge Durango since this model has been sold. Water has been reported all over the internet of rear light housings that have shorted out or caused major issues. If the lights go out, it can cause visibility issues for vehicles behind you. I have noticed that the lights are now flickering on my vehicle in the area where the water settles. The same light housing contains the license plate lights, the back-up camera, and the reverse lights. I have also noticed that the main taillights that have the functioning brake lights and turn signal have had condensation as well. The part to replace this entire one section of lighting and electrical components is around $1,000. I have noticed that a technical bulletin was sent out by Dodge…”

“WATER HAS LEAKED INTO THE "RACE TRACK LIGHTING" ON THE LIFT GATE. THIS IS FROM NORMAL, EVERYDAY DRIVING USE AND CARE. THE LIFT GATE TAIL LIGHTS, AS WELL AS LICENSE PLATE LIGHTING NO LONGER FUNCTION. THIS MAKES MY VEHICLE DANGEROUS, AND ILLEGAL TO DRIVE AT NIGHT. I HAVE READ ON MULTIPLE DODGE DURANGO FORUMS THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM, AND ONE DODGE DEALER I SPOKE TO SAID THEY SEE THIS ALL THE TIME. THE PART ALONE TO FIX THE PROBLEM IS QUOTED AT $1000 BEFORE TAX. TO ME, IT IS CRAZY THAT IT COSTS THIS MUCH SIMPLY TO MAKE MY VEHICLE LEGAL AGAIN, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT IS A COMMON ISSUE ACCORDING TO MY RESEARCH. I FEEL THAT DODGE SHOULD ISSUE A RECALL, AS THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM, IT'S A SAFETY, AND LEGAL ISSUE, AND IT IS SO EXPENSIVE TO FIX. I BOUGHT A NEWER VEHICLE TO NOT HAVE PROBLEMS, AND IT IS HARD TO BE ABLE TO AFFORD SUCH AN EXPENSIVE FIX WHEN ALL I AM TRYING TO DO IS MAKE MY VEHICLE LEGAL TO DRIVE AGAIN. DODGE NEEDS TO DO THE RIGHT THING, AND TAKE CARE OF THIS PROBLEM THAT HAS PLAGUED MANY OF ITS LOYAL CUSTOMERS.”