I have a 2010 Journey with what you'd classify as "engine shutter". I had taken it to the dealership that I bought it from 6 times and was told every time that the "shutter" that I complained about, was normal for this 6 speed transmission. Thankfully the dealership has to note in their computer what you've brought your car in for every time you bring it in.
Final straw was me driving home on the expressway doing 74 mph and my car began to shutter like the transmission would drop out at any minute. The dash check engine light (looks like a mini transmission, dealership calls check engine light) came on clearly indicating a problem. I pulled into the nearest Dodge dealership only to be told it would take 3 hours before they'd be able to have anyone look at it. I calmly thanked them for all their help, got back into my Journey and drove away.
At this point I'm very angry and ready to either blow up the transmission or engine, which ever was the cause of the issue! My thought at this point is either way it’s covered under the warranty!!
As I continued to get closer to home I remembered a friend telling me about a Dodge Dealership that she'd recommend. I pulled into their Service bay, explained my car shuttering and was asked how often it happened. As the gentleman in the Service center pulled up my name in their computer he seemed surprised that I'd had it in 6 times for the same issue with nothing ever serviced.
Long story short, as soon as I told him about the engine light coming on he knew exactly what was happening and told me that is was called "Combustible Carbon Buildup". An issue that’s more common than the dealerships let on.
He explained that the car is not safe to drive like this and immediately called the rental company to get me a replacement while they worked on my Journey. It only took two days for the dealership to fix and Chrysler paid for the rental car during this time.
This "engine shutter" is not normal, and if you live in Michigan, I can recommend a great dealership!!
