2009-2020 Dodge Journey Hood Latch: Failure Symptoms, Part Numbers, and Replacement
A guide to diagnosing a faulty hood latch on your 2009-2020 Dodge Journey, choosing the right used part, and understanding replacement costs.
- A faulty hood latch is a critical safety issue; do not drive if the hood does not lock securely.
- The most current OEM part number is 4589828AA, which supersedes older versions and is the best option when buying new or used.
- Failure is most often caused by corrosion and wear; inspect any used part for rust and ensure the springs are strong and snappy.
- Replacement is a simple DIY job, typically taking under an hour with basic tools.
Symptoms of a Failing Hood Latch
A hood latch rarely fails without warning. Recognizing the early signs can prevent a dangerous situation. Here are the most common symptoms for a 2009-2020 Dodge Journey.
- Hood Won't Close or Latch: You may have to slam the hood multiple times for it to catch, or it may not lock down at all. This often points to a seized or broken internal spring or mechanism.
- Hood Pops Open to the Safety Catch While Driving: This is the most dangerous symptom. If the hood lifts to the secondary catch position while the vehicle is in motion, the primary latch has failed completely. Do not drive the vehicle at speed if this occurs.
- Interior Release Lever is Loose or Stiff: If the handle inside the cabin feels mushy, has no resistance, or is very hard to pull, the issue could be the latch assembly or the release cable itself. A seized latch can make the cable feel stiff, while a broken cable will feel loose.
- Hood is Loose or Rattles: If you can see the hood vibrating or hear it rattling when driving, the latch is not holding it down securely. This indicates wear and an imminent risk of failure.
- Visible Rust or Corrosion: The latch is located at the front of the vehicle where it is exposed to moisture and road salt. Visible rust or white powdery deposits are a clear sign that the mechanism is deteriorating and may not function correctly.
Warning: Never drive a vehicle if the hood does not latch securely. Wind forces can cause the hood to fly open, completely blocking your vision and potentially causing a severe accident.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
As of this writing, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Dodge or the NHTSA for the hood latch assembly on the 2009-2020 Dodge Journey. While other recalls exist for the Journey, none pertain directly to a faulty latch mechanism. Failures are typically due to normal wear, corrosion, or lack of lubrication.
Buying a Used Hood Latch Assembly
For a part like this, a high-quality used OEM latch is often a better choice than a cheap aftermarket alternative due to superior fit, material quality, and durability. Here’s what to look for:
- Physical Inspection: Check for heavy rust or corrosion, especially around the springs and pivot points. Manually operate the primary and secondary catches with a screwdriver or your finger. They should move freely and snap back into place with authority. If the movement is sluggish or gritty, the latch is worn out.
- Verify Part Numbers: The OEM part numbers for the Dodge Journey have been updated over the years. The latest part number, 4589828AA, replaces older versions like 4389642AC and 4389642AB. If you are buying a used part, getting the newest revision (4589828AA) is ideal as it may contain design improvements.
- Check the Cable Connection Point: Ensure the plastic or metal clip where the release cable attaches is not broken or cracked. This is a common point of failure.
- Electrical Connector: Some models may have a sensor for a 'hood ajar' light. If your vehicle has this feature, inspect the electrical connector on the latch for any bent pins or corrosion.
Pro Tip: When you find a used latch, spray the mechanism with a penetrating oil and work it back and forth several times. This will help clean out any old grime and show you how smoothly it operates before you install it.
Cost Comparison
The cost to replace a Dodge Journey hood latch can vary significantly based on the part source and who performs the labor.
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $90 - $140 | Price for the part only, with MSRP around $138. |
| New Aftermarket | $35 - $90 | Wide range of quality and price from brands like Dorman or Autopart Premium. |
| Used OEM | $25 - $60 | A cost-effective option providing original factory fit and quality. |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $75 | The job typically takes less than an hour for an experienced technician. |
| Total Professional Replacement | $153 - $176 | Estimated cost for a shop to provide and install a new latch. |
Replacement Overview
- DIY Difficulty: 2 out of 5. This is a relatively simple job for a DIY mechanic with basic tools.
- Estimated Time: 0.5 - 1 hour.
- Tools Needed: Socket set, ratchet, pliers, and possibly a trim removal tool for plastic clips.
The replacement process involves removing the upper radiator cover (held by plastic push-pins), which allows access to the latch. The latch is typically held on by two or three bolts. After unbolting it, you must disconnect the release cable and any electrical connector. Installation is the reverse of removal. It's important to test the latch function with the hood open before closing it completely. Minor adjustments can be made by slightly loosening the bolts and shifting the latch position to ensure it aligns perfectly with the hood striker.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
My hood won't open. Is it the latch or the cable?
Have a helper pull the release lever inside the car while you listen at the front grille. If you hear a click or any noise from the latch area, the cable is likely working, and the latch itself is seized. If the lever pulls with no resistance, the cable has likely snapped or detached from the lever or latch.
Can I just lubricate my old latch instead of replacing it?
Sometimes, yes. If the latch is just sticky from dirt and old grease, cleaning it with a brake cleaner and lubricating it with a white lithium grease or similar spray can restore function. However, if the springs are broken or the metal is heavily corroded, lubrication is only a temporary fix, and replacement is necessary for safety.
Is the Dodge Journey hood latch the same as the one on a Chrysler 200 or Dodge Avenger?
Yes, this hood latch assembly is shared with several other Chrysler vehicles, including the 2011-2014 Chrysler 200 and the 2009-2014 Dodge Avenger. This can make finding a compatible used part easier.
Do I need to do any special alignment after installing a new latch?
Yes, a final check and possible adjustment are crucial. After bolting the new latch in loosely, close the hood slowly to see how it aligns with the striker. You may need to move the latch slightly left, right, up, or down to get a perfect engagement. Once aligned, tighten the bolts securely and test the primary and secondary latch functions before driving.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4589828AA 4389642AC 4389642AB
Material: Steel. Attachment Type: Bolt-On.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Dodge Journey: