About the Dodge Journey License Plate Bracket
Direct fit Dodge Journey mid-size crossover SUV 2009-2020 (12-year US production). The Dodge Journey was Dodge's mid-size crossover SUV (compact crossover positioning) built on Chrysler JC platform. Introduced 2009 as Dodge's first crossover SUV - replacement for Dodge Caravan when Caravan designation was discontinued 2009 (Town & Country continued until 2016 Pacifica replacement - Batch 55 vaz510 1984 Chrysler minivan revolution reference).
Journey engines: 2.4L I4 (172 HP base for SE/SXT trim, standard FWD), 3.5L V6 SOHC (235 HP performance engine 2009-2010 earlier years), 3.6L Pentastar V6 (283 HP modern engine 2011+ for higher trims - the famous Pentastar V6 used across Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram lineup 2011+ in various applications replacing aging V6 family). Transmissions: 4-speed automatic (earlier with 2.4L I4) or 6-speed automatic (modern Pentastar V6). Drivetrain: FWD standard or AWD (Active Drive single-speed AWD system).
Trim levels: SE (base family), SXT (sport), Crossroad (off-road themed with body cladding), R/T (Road and Track performance variant), GT (Grand Touring premium). Body style: 4-door mid-size crossover SUV with regular doors (no sliding doors), liftgate rear. 5 or 7 passenger seating configurations. Approximately 192-inch length. Competed against Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge/Explorer, GMC Acadia.
Discontinuation 2020: After 12-year US run, Journey discontinued without direct successor as Stellantis (formed January 2021 after FCA-PSA merger - Batch 57 vaz524 Ram brand Stellantis context reference) restructured brand portfolios. Dodge focused on performance cars (Charger/Challenger) rather than crossovers. Jeep brand took over most mid-size crossover roles in Stellantis group (Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee filled Journey's market position).
License plate bracket definition: mounting hardware for license plate. Functions: (1) Plate mounting (provides holes/standoffs for license plate bolts), (2) Bumper protection (some brackets have cushioning to prevent plate direct contact with bumper avoiding scratches), (3) Alignment (maintains plate position and orientation), (4) Breakaway design some brackets (designed to detach without damage in minor impact).
Locations: front bumper (for front plate states - about 30 states require front plates) or rear bumper (rear plate mandatory all states). Construction: plastic or metal bracket body, mounting holes for plate (standard 4 holes typical), vehicle attachment points (bolts/clips to bumper body), optional reflective markers some designs.
Common failure modes: broken mounting points (plastic tabs crack from age/UV), corrosion (salt-belt areas damage metal brackets), impact damage (curb strikes), missing (lost after impact or service work). Replacement is easy DIY 15-30 minutes.
Dodge Journey Heritage
- Production: 2009-2020 (12 years US)
- Platform: Chrysler JC
- Type: Mid-size crossover SUV
- Engines: 2.4L I4, 3.5L V6 SOHC, 3.6L Pentastar V6
- Transmissions: 4-speed or 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: FWD or AWD (Active Drive)
- Body: 4-door crossover with liftgate, 5/7 passenger
- Trims: SE/SXT/Crossroad/R/T/GT
- Discontinuation: 2020 (Stellantis restructuring)
Vehicle Compatibility
| Detail | Description |
|---|
| Dodge Journey 2009-2012 (Early Era) | JC platform launch era |
| Dodge Journey 2013-2016 (Mid Era) | Pentastar V6 standard |
| Dodge Journey 2017-2020 (Late Era) | Final years before discontinuation |
| Position Specific: | |
| Front Bumper Bracket | For front plate states |
| Rear Bumper Bracket | All states required |
| Trim Specific: | |
| SE/SXT/Crossroad/R/T/GT | Similar brackets typically |
| Engine Configurations: | |
| 2.4L I4 Equipped | Standard bracket |
| 3.5L V6 Equipped (2009-2010) | Standard bracket |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 Equipped (2011+) | Standard bracket |
| Drivetrain: | |
| FWD or AWD | Same bracket typically |
| NOT Compatible: Dodge Caravan | Different minivan platform |
| NOT Compatible: Dodge Charger/Challenger | Different LX/LD platform sedans |
Fitment Assistance
Call (240) 301-0095. Critical questions: (1) Year (2009-2020). (2) Front or rear bracket (DIFFERENT brackets per position). (3) Trim level (may affect on some models). (4) State requirements (front plate state requires front bracket).
Condition and Inspection
- Surface intact No major cracks
- Mounting points functional Plastic tabs/bolt holes intact
- Color acceptable Minor fading typical
- Attachment hardware present Bolts/clips if applicable
- Profile straight Not bent
- Year/position verified
- Donor vehicle disclosed
- Cleaned of road grime
Why Buy from Us
- For Dodge Journey license plate bracket
- 12-year production coverage 2009-2020
- Mid-size crossover SUV heritage
- Chrysler JC platform expertise
- Dodge Caravan successor context (Batch 55 vaz510)
- Pentastar V6 heritage (Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram 2011+)
- 2.4L I4 base engine knowledge
- 3.5L V6 SOHC early engine context
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 modern engine
- 4-speed vs 6-speed automatic transmission context
- FWD vs AWD Active Drive system knowledge
- Trim level configurations (SE/SXT/Crossroad/R/T/GT)
- 5 vs 7 passenger configurations
- Discontinuation 2020 Stellantis era context
- Stellantis 2021+ ownership context (Batch 57 vaz524)
- Jeep brand crossover takeover context
- Front vs rear bracket distinction
- Front plate state requirements knowledge
- Common failure mode expertise
- Plastic vs metal bracket construction
- Surface intact verification
- Mounting points inspection
- Donor vehicle disclosed
- Good salvage donor pool
- Free shipping all 50 states
- 15 day warranty
- No core charge
What is the Dodge Journey?
Dodge Journey was Dodge's mid-size CROSSOVER SUV 2009-2020 (12-year US production): (1) BACKGROUND - introduced 2009 as Dodge's first crossover SUV. Replacement for Dodge Caravan when Caravan designation was discontinued 2009 (Town & Country continued until 2016 Pacifica replacement - Batch 55 vaz510 reference). (2) PLATFORM - Chrysler JC platform. Family crossover engineering. (3) ENGINES: (a) 2.4L I4 (172 HP base SE/SXT trim). (b) 3.5L V6 SOHC (235 HP 2009-2010 early). (c) 3.6L Pentastar V6 (283 HP 2011+ - famous Chrysler Pentastar V6 used across Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram lineup). (4) TRANSMISSIONS - 4-speed automatic (early) or 6-speed automatic (modern Pentastar era). (5) DRIVETRAIN - FWD standard or AWD (Active Drive single-speed AWD). (6) BODY STYLE - 4-door crossover SUV with regular doors (no sliding doors), liftgate rear. 5 or 7 passenger seating. (7) TRIM LEVELS - SE (base), SXT (sport), Crossroad (off-road themed), R/T (performance), GT (premium). (8) COMPETITORS - Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge/Explorer, GMC Acadia. (9) DISCONTINUATION 2020 - after 12-year run, discontinued without direct successor as Stellantis (formed 2021) restructured brands. Dodge focused on performance cars (Charger/Challenger). Jeep took crossover role. (10) HERITAGE - represents Chrysler's brand consolidation era. Was successful in its segment for many years.
What is the Pentastar V6 engine?
Pentastar V6 is Chrysler's MODERN V6 engine introduced 2011: (1) DESIGN - 3.6L (3,604cc) V6 with DOHC 24-valve aluminum block and heads, multi-port fuel injection, ~283-305 HP depending on application. (2) PRODUCTION - introduced 2011 model year, manufactured at Trenton Engine Plant in Michigan. (3) APPLICATIONS - used across Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram lineup including: Chrysler 300, Chrysler 200, Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Journey (this listing), Dodge Durango, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ram 1500, Ram ProMaster, others. (4) REPLACING - replaced aging Chrysler V6 family including 3.5L V6 SOHC, 4.0L V6, and various older engines. Unified Chrysler's V6 strategy. (5) IMPROVEMENTS - better fuel economy, more power, modern emissions, fewer maintenance issues than predecessors. (6) FOR JOURNEY - Pentastar became standard engine 2011+ replacing 3.5L V6 SOHC of earlier Journey years. (7) RELIABILITY - generally reliable with proper maintenance. Some early production years had specific issues addressed in later production. (8) NAME - 'Pentastar' references Chrysler's Pentastar logo (5-point star) used since 1962. (9) ENTHUSIAST INTEREST - Pentastar performance modifications popular in Jeep Wrangler and Dodge muscle car aftermarket. (10) FOR THIS LISTING - 2011+ Dodge Journey vehicles have Pentastar V6 if equipped with V6 option.
How do I replace a license plate bracket?
License plate bracket replacement is EASY DIY ~15-30 minutes: (1) TOOLS NEEDED: Screwdriver (Phillips), maybe socket wrench, new bracket, mounting hardware if needed. (2) REMOVE LICENSE PLATE: (a) Unscrew plate from old bracket. (b) Set plate aside. (3) REMOVE OLD BRACKET: (a) Locate mounting bolts/clips holding bracket to bumper. (b) Remove bolts using screwdriver or socket. (c) Some brackets clip in (pry tab). (d) Pull bracket from bumper. (4) INSPECT BUMPER MOUNTING POINT: (a) Look at bumper holes/clip points. (b) Check for damage. (c) Clean if needed. (5) INSTALL NEW BRACKET: (a) Position new bracket against bumper. (b) Align mounting points. (c) Install bolts/clips. (d) Tighten securely. (6) REINSTALL LICENSE PLATE: (a) Position plate on new bracket. (b) Install mounting bolts through plate into bracket. (c) Tighten securely. (7) VERIFY: (a) Plate is straight and properly aligned. (b) Bracket is firmly attached to bumper. (c) No rattles when shaking. (8) FOR DODGE JOURNEY - access easy from front or rear bumper, no body work required.
Why was the Dodge Journey discontinued?
Dodge Journey DISCONTINUED 2020 due to STELLANTIS RESTRUCTURING: (1) BACKGROUND - Stellantis formed January 2021 after FCA-PSA merger (Batch 57 vaz524 Ram brand context reference). Combined Fiat Chrysler Automobiles + Peugeot Société Anonyme. (2) BRAND PORTFOLIO RESTRUCTURING - Stellantis evaluated 14 brands across merged company. Some brands consolidated, some refocused. (3) DODGE BRAND FOCUS - Dodge brand refocused on PERFORMANCE CARS: (a) Charger (RWD sedan with Hemi V8). (b) Challenger (muscle coupe with Hemi V8). (c) Discontinuation of crossovers/SUVs from Dodge lineup. (4) JEEP BRAND TAKEOVER - Jeep brand absorbed crossover/SUV role: (a) Jeep Cherokee (compact crossover). (b) Jeep Grand Cherokee (mid-size SUV). (c) Jeep Compass (compact crossover). (d) Many Journey customers shifted to Jeep brand. (5) DECLINING SALES - Journey sales declining late 2010s as: (a) Competitors (Toyota, Honda, Ford) had stronger crossovers. (b) Journey aged (12 years without major redesign). (c) Pentastar V6 reliability concerns dated. (d) Other Chrysler/Dodge models attracting buyers. (6) PROFIT MARGIN ISSUES - thinner margins than other Stellantis vehicles. (7) MANUFACTURING - production line repurposed for other models. (8) BRAND POSITIONING - Dodge couldn't compete in mid-size crossover with Honda/Toyota dominance. (9) FUTURE - Dodge has not announced direct Journey successor. Customers wanting mid-size crossover-style vehicle from Stellantis directed to Jeep or Chrysler Pacifica. (10) USED MARKET - Journey 2020 is rare 'last year' variant. Used examples plentiful from 2009-2019 production years.
How does the Journey compare to other Dodge vehicles?
Dodge Journey was UNIQUE in Dodge lineup as crossover SUV: (1) JOURNEY vs CARAVAN: (a) Journey - crossover SUV with regular doors and liftgate (2009-2020). (b) Caravan - minivan with sliding doors (1984-2019 over multiple generations - Batch 55 vaz510 1984 minivan revolution reference). (c) Different vehicle types serving similar family use. (d) Journey introduced 2009 same year Caravan name was discontinued. (2) JOURNEY vs DURANGO: (a) Journey - mid-size crossover (~192 inches). (b) Durango - large SUV with body-on-frame architecture (~200 inches). (c) Different platforms - Durango RWD-based, Journey FWD-based. (d) Durango more truck-like. (e) Journey more car-like. (3) JOURNEY vs CHARGER/CHALLENGER: (a) Journey - family crossover. (b) Charger/Challenger - performance cars (Charger sedan, Challenger coupe). (c) Completely different vehicle types. (d) Different buyer demographics. (4) JOURNEY vs RAM 1500: (a) Journey - mid-size crossover for family use. (b) Ram 1500 - light-duty pickup truck (Batch 57 vaz524 reference for Ram 2500 multi-gen). (c) Different vehicle types entirely. (5) JOURNEY vs JEEP CHEROKEE (Sister Stellantis Brand): (a) Both mid-size crossovers. (b) Different platforms - Journey on Chrysler JC, Cherokee on FCA Compact US Wide platform. (c) Cherokee has more off-road capability. (d) Journey simpler family-oriented. (e) After Journey discontinuation 2020, Cherokee absorbed Journey customer base. (6) MARKET POSITIONING - Journey was Dodge's family-oriented crossover offering: (a) Affordable price point. (b) Practical family transport. (c) Standard V6 power with Pentastar. (d) 5 or 7 passenger flexibility. (e) Optional AWD. (7) FOR PARTS - Journey parts mostly Journey-specific. Some shared with: (a) Other Chrysler JC platform vehicles. (b) Various Chrysler/Dodge mid-2010s vehicles. (c) Aftermarket parts widely available.
What's the Stellantis ownership context?
STELLANTIS is the parent company of Dodge brand since January 2021: (1) FORMATION - Stellantis formed January 16, 2021 from merger of: (a) Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) - parent of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, etc. (b) PSA Groupe (Peugeot Société Anonyme) - parent of Peugeot, Citroën, DS, Opel, Vauxhall. (c) Result: 14-brand global automotive group. (2) STELLANTIS GLOBAL POSITION - 4th largest automaker globally by volume. ~10 million vehicles annually. ~300,000 employees worldwide. (3) BRAND PORTFOLIO RESTRUCTURING since 2021: (a) Some brands consolidated. (b) Some brands refocused. (c) Some vehicles discontinued (including Journey 2020). (d) New EVs and platforms being developed. (e) Investment in electrification. (4) DODGE BRAND IN STELLANTIS: (a) Dodge focused on PERFORMANCE cars - Charger and Challenger remained. (b) Crossovers/SUVs role passed to Jeep brand. (c) Journey discontinued 2020 (just before Stellantis formation - decision made by FCA, finalized as Stellantis took over). (5) FCA HISTORY (Precursor to Stellantis): (a) DaimlerChrysler era 1998-2007. (b) Cerberus Capital Management ownership 2007-2009. (c) Fiat acquisition 2009-2014. (d) Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) formed 2014. (e) FCA-PSA merger 2021 created Stellantis. (6) CHRYSLER HISTORY (Precursor Companies): (a) Walter Chrysler founded 1925. (b) Multiple ownership changes through decades. (c) Currently part of Stellantis. (7) CHRYSLER BRAND ITSELF in Stellantis - reduced lineup to mostly Chrysler 300 (RWD sedan) and Pacifica/Voyager (minivans Batch 55 vaz510 reference). (8) JEEP BRAND in Stellantis - significantly expanded as crossover/SUV leader of group. (9) RAM BRAND in Stellantis - heavy-duty trucks (Batch 57 vaz524 reference for Ram 2500 multi-gen). (10) ELECTRIFICATION STRATEGY - Stellantis investing heavily in EVs. Plans for all-electric Dodge muscle cars by 2024-2025. Plans for electrified Jeep and Ram vehicles. (11) FOR PARTS - Stellantis-era Dodge Journey continues parts availability. Journey 2020 was last year before Stellantis formation.
Why don't some states require front license plates?
FRONT LICENSE PLATE REQUIREMENTS vary by US state: (1) STATES REQUIRING FRONT PLATES (~30 states): California, Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Virginia, Washington, Connecticut, New Jersey, others. Two plates required (front and rear). (2) STATES WITHOUT FRONT PLATE REQUIREMENT (~20 states): Pennsylvania, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, others. Rear plate only required. (3) WHY DIFFERENT REQUIREMENTS: (a) Historical legislative differences. (b) Cost considerations (states with two plates pay more for plate production). (c) Aesthetic preferences (front plate considered ugly by some). (d) Vehicle design considerations (modern cars increasingly hard to mount front plates). (4) FRONT PLATE DEBATES: (a) Pros - better identification for law enforcement, easier to read in traffic, helps with toll collection. (b) Cons - obstructs cooling on modern vehicles, ugly aesthetics, mounting issues with curved bumpers. (5) MODERN VEHICLE DESIGN CHALLENGES: (a) Aerodynamic front fascias make plate mounting awkward. (b) Cooling intakes designed without plate consideration. (c) Bumper sensors and cameras around plate area. (d) Some manufacturers offer 'no front plate' bumpers in front-plate-not-required states. (6) FOR DODGE JOURNEY in different states: (a) Front-required state - Journey came with front plate bracket installed. (b) Front-not-required state - Journey may or may not have front plate bracket depending on dealer prep. (c) Some buyers in non-required states remove front plate bracket for cleaner appearance. (7) ENFORCEMENT: (a) Front plate states - police can ticket for missing/non-functional front plate ($25-100 typical). (b) Some states more lenient than others. (c) State inspections may check. (8) ELECTRIC VEHICLES often have FRONT PLATE EXEMPTIONS in some states due to aerodynamic concerns. (9) FOR THIS LISTING - we sell both front and rear brackets for Dodge Journey: (a) Customer specifies which is needed. (b) Front plate state customers may need both. (c) Rear plate always needed in all states. (10) BRACKET TYPES - front brackets typically smaller, rear brackets may have integrated lighting (Batch 58 vaz528 reference for Intrepid license lamp federal compliance).
How does shipping work?
Free shipping to all 50 US states. Dodge Journey license plate bracket is small/lightweight (0.25-1 lb) shipped in protective box. UPS or FedEx Ground typical (3-7 days transit). Good salvage donor pool from 12-year Journey production. Front and rear brackets are different parts - customer must specify which is needed. Aftermarket plate brackets widely available ($20-50) from various suppliers if used OE not preferred.
