P0944 on Dodge Journey
Hydraulic Pressure Unit Loss of Pressure
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Dodge Journey context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P0944.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P0944 Means on Your Dodge Journey
P0944 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Hydraulic Pressure Unit Loss of Pressure. This code relates to the transmission system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Dodge Journey Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"On 3/14/2012 (31,604 miles) while pulling out of a parking space the transmission started to grind and the vehicle lost power. the dealer found a stored code r1790 and reset the code unable to find further issue. picked vehicle up on 3/15/2012 drove vehicle home."
"Something has gone very wrong in my transmission. possibly tork converter or a pump causing 2 error codes and a huge winding noise upon starting the vehicle. the error codes are p083b for the tfps and p0944 hydraulic pressure unit."
"To whom it may concern: My 2016 Dodge Journey Crossroad AWD (3.6L) is currently experiencing "P0944 Loss of Hydraulic Pump Prime" (See attached diagnostic report, vehicle_record_report.pdf from a local auto repair shop) The car was assembled in November 2015."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Dodge Journey
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.