Dodge Dakota problems
The Dodge Dakota, known as the Ram Dakota for the final two years of production, is a mid-size pickup truck from Chrysler's Ram (formerly Dodge Truck) division. The first Dakota was introduced in late 1986 as a 1987 model. From its introduction through 2009, it was marketed under the Dodge brand, and for the final two years under the Ram brand.
The Dakota was sized above the compact Ford Ranger and Chevrolet S-10, but below the full-sized pickups such as Dodge's own Ram. It is a conventional design with body-on-frame construction and a leaf spring/live axle rear end. The Dakota was the first mid-size pickup with an optional V8 engine. For its entire production, the Dakota was built in Warren, Michigan.
The Dakota was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award for 2000.
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Dodge Dakota model years
Common Dodge Dakota problems
The Dodge Dakota, a mid-size pickup truck produced by Dodge from 1987 to 2011, is known for its robustness and versatility. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to problems. Here are some common issues that Dodge Dakota owners have reported, based on the search results provided:
- Brake Issues: The 2002 model of the Dodge Dakota has been reported to have significant brake issues. These problems include brake cylinder lockup, smoking hot brakes, and brake lockup. These issues can be dangerous and may require expensive repairs. The 2005 model also has brake issues, although not as prevalent as in the 2002 model.
- Body/Paint Troubles: The 2000 model of the Dodge Dakota has been reported to have body and paint issues. These problems include paint fading off the top of the roof, oxidation of the clear coat on the roof, and rusting wheel wells. These issues can affect the appearance and value of the vehicle.
- 4WD System Hiccups: The 4WD system of the Dodge Dakota can experience hiccups, which can lead to problems such as the car staying stuck in 2WD mode. These issues can be addressed with practical solutions, but they require prompt attention to keep the vehicle running smoothly.
- Intermediate Steering Shaft Noises: Many owners of the 2006 Dodge Dakota have complained about odd noises coming from their vehicle’s intermediate steering shaft. These noises can make the truck steer in increments rather than smoothly, which can affect the driving experience and safety of the vehicle.
- Damaged Exhaust Manifold Bolts: Owners of the 2006 Dodge Dakota have reported odd noises from the exhaust manifold during start-up, which can be caused by severely corroded or broken exhaust manifold bolts. These issues can be accompanied by an illuminated check engine light and engine stall.
- Upper Ball Joint Failure: Upper ball joint failure is a common problem in the 2003 Dodge Dakota. This issue can cause clunking noises and jolts from the front driver’s side when turning the vehicle. Faulty or worn ball joints can also make the steering feel clunky, which can affect the overall driving experience and safety of the vehicle.
- Brake Cylinder Problems: Problems with the brake cylinder are common in the 2002 Dodge Dakota. These issues can cause the front brakes to overheat, lock up randomly, and the vehicle to pull to one side. In some cases, smoke from the front tires can also be observed, which can be caused by overheated and cracked brake pads.
In conclusion, while the Dodge Dakota is a robust and versatile pickup truck, it is not immune to problems. The 2000, 2002, 2005, and 2006 models have been reported to have significant issues, including engine problems, brake issues, body/paint troubles, and 4WD system hiccups. Other model years, such as the 2003 and 2006, have also been reported to have specific issues, such as upper ball joint failure and intermediate steering shaft noises. It is essential to be aware of these issues and consider them when purchasing a used Dodge Dakota.
Are Dodge Dakota reliable?
The Dodge Dakota enjoys above-average reliability ratings, with some model years scoring better than others. RepairPal gave it a rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, ranking it 19th out of 32 compact pickup trucks in its category.
Do Dodge Dakotas have transmission problems?
One of the biggest Dodge Dakota transmission problems is slipping in-and-out of gear, and/or no gear engagement. Factory design flaws are the most common cause of these problems, and Street Smart Transmission has taken steps to correct all of them.
What are Dodge Dakotas known for?
The Dakota was a mid-sized pickup, larger than compacts like the Ford Ranger, but smaller than a full-sized truck. Four-, six-, and eight-cylinder engines were available in the first two generations, but only the thirsty V8s could be considered strong. The ride is jittery and unsettled.
Why did Dodge discontinue the Dakota?
The Dodge Dakota actually existed for two years after the transition as the Ram Dakota before being finally axed without a replacement in 2011 due to dwindling sales, lack of development of anything resembling a replacement (the closest we maybe got was the 2006 Rampage concept truck), and a toughening business case.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Dakota years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Dakota cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Dakota model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Dakota model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Dakota years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Dakota car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Dakota , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Dakota vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Dakota model years
A total of 569 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Dakota model years
There were a total of 154 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Dakota model years
There were a total of 382 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Dakota model years
There were a total of 21 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 7084 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Dakota . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Dakota vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Dakota 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 1D7RE3BK5BS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: Many Dodge vehicle models experience failure of illumination for instrument clusters. This creates an unsafe condition for the driver since information presented at the instrument cluster, cannot be determined during night time driving conditions. Dodge makes no provision to customers for replacement or repair parts and does not provide any documentation through Dodge dealers on how to address this issue. It was determined that Dodge does not offer replacement instrument clusters to address this issue.
Dodge Dakota 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-17
- VIN: 1B7FL22PXYS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Unknown
Dodge Dakota 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-13
- VIN: 1D7HW48N76S
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: After driving on the interstate highway for a couple hours from Phoenix, Arizona I noticed that the left turn signal started malfunctioning, and the right signal flashed instead. After several hours of driving, noticed that sometimes the right signal only flashed 3 or 4 times when turning on the right indicator. I also noticed that the emergency flashers would usually blink once or twice left, then switch to right only. While stopped, I verified that the right front and rear turn signals were actually blinking as indicated on the dash. The next day however the problem was gone. I drove the car on the interstate again for several hours, without any issues.
Dodge Dakota 1998
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-10
- Number Of Injuries: 4
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B7GL22X4WS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owned a 1998 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at 25 MPH and attempting to slow the vehicle with the brake pedal depressed all the way to the floorboard, the vehicle failed to come to a complete stop. As a result, the vehicle careened off the roadway and into a ditch. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was filed, and injuries were reported. The occupants were all transported to an area hospital by EMT for treatment. The driver was treated for chest pain caused by the steering wheel; the contact was treated for a broken arm; the oldest rear seat occupant was treated for a facial injury, losing two front teeth; and the youngest rear seat occupant was treated for a concussion. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to NHTSA Campaign Number: 97V170000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 5,000.
Dodge Dakota 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-23
- VIN: 1B7GG2AN91S
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle shifted out of gear. The contact stated that the vehicle was shifted into park(P) but rolled unintendedly. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 234,000.
Dodge Dakota 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-29
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-07
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1D7HE22K56S
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2006 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated while driving at 50 MPH, the brakes failed causing the contact to strike a curb and flatten the front passenger side tire, and damage the rim. No air bags deploy. The contact suffered injuries to the back, neck and suffered a concussion. The contact was transferred to the hospital where she received medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an impound lot. The contact stated the vehicle was under NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 16V352000 (Air Bags) and 15V313000 (Air Bags). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 108,000.
Dodge Dakota 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-06
- VIN: 1D7HW52N36S
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Dodge Dakota. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V352000 (Air Bags) and the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair; however, two weeks after the repair, the passenger’s side air bag warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 177,000.
Dodge Dakota 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-05
- VIN: 1D7HE42N05S
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle vibrated, pulled to the right, with a burning odor coming into the cabin of the vehicle. The contact inspected the vehicle and diagnosed that the caliper had failed. The calipers had been replaced six times; however, the failure persisted and became more frequent. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 25,000.
Dodge Dakota 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-15
- VIN: 1B7GG22XXYS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Air bag light and Engine light comes on and off. Headlights, break lights, and blinkers keep going on and off while light switch is on. Rust on body due to clear coat peeling. Steering is sometimes hard to do even with full steering fluid. Shifts hard. Brake fluid has leaked. Coolant has leaked, along with heater core that dealership had me pay a lot of money for replacement in 2022. Vehicle hesitates to accelerate to higher speeds. Windshield wipers do not fully touch windshield towards top. Air compressor makes rattle on/off sounds.
Dodge Dakota 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-17
- VIN: 1D7HL48X83S
- Components: SUSPENSION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The front end got a hard vibrate i replace the shocks two times and its not fix the problem seem like something going too brake off like a wheel or something dont feel safe driving it
Dodge Dakota 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-14
- VIN: 1B7GL23X0SW
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I bought this 1995 Dodge Dakota brand new in 1995 and it only has original 92,110 miles on it. The problem with this Dakota I have replaced the Drivers front seat belt and the replacement again is falling apart again where it will not release for a person to get out of. I don't know if the air bags will not deploy if the seat belt is not working properly. Again the seat belt needs to be replaced again as it physically is falling apart again.
Dodge Dakota 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-04
- VIN: 1D7RE3BK5BS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The backlighting on the instrument cluster is defective. Only a portion of the gauges are illuminated. Should this occur for the speedometer then driver will not have a way to determine vehicle speed during the nighttime hours.
Dodge Dakota 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-26
- VIN: 1b7fl22p7ws
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: 1 Safety recall found,Reprogram Pcm and inspect Catalytic Converter.I never got a recall notice in the mail just happen to go on line and find it.My engine light,Anti -brake light and emergency light stays on.My speedometer and odometer quit working.I took my truck to the Dodge dealership and they said the parts are discontinued and they cannot get them but they did do a inspection and said everything was ok.I still have the same problems and I am concerned about my safety and the safety of others involved while I am driving my truck.
Dodge Dakota 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-31
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-11
- VIN: 1d7hw58px7s
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: While driving eastbound at approximately 70 mph, I heard a loud bang, a whooshing sound, and felt a sudden change in the handling of the vehicle. I pulled to the shoulder, and found that the entire inside and outside sidewalls of the right rear tire had shredded.
Dodge Dakota 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-02
- VIN: 1D7HG12K04S
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving my 2004 dodge Dakota all the gauges, including the speedometer and the tachometer stopped working. Everything went off although the truck was still running. I had headlights turn signals an emergency flashers nothing else. I don’t know how fast I was going how much fuel I had or if my engine was running hot nothing. This is something that could spook a driver to a point where he/she would be distracted of their surroundings. Possibly causing a serious crash and hurting or killing someone.
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Dakota
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 152 recalls for different components of the Dodge Dakota.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Dakota 2011
- Report Received Date: 2019-01-15
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, Ram 4500/5500, 2010-2011 Dodge Dakota, 2010-2014 Dodge Challenger, 2010-2015 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, and 2010-2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 4, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V01.
- Model: Dodge Dakota 2010
- Report Received Date: 2019-01-15
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, Ram 4500/5500, 2010-2011 Dodge Dakota, 2010-2014 Dodge Challenger, 2010-2015 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, and 2010-2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 4, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V01.
- Model: Dodge Dakota 2010
- Report Received Date: 2018-01-09
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger vehicles, and 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Chrysler is recalling certain 2009-2010 RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Chrysler is also recalling certain 2009 RAM 3500, RAM 2500, RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U03.
- Model: Dodge Dakota 2011
- Report Received Date: 2018-01-09
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger vehicles, and 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Chrysler is recalling certain 2009-2010 RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Chrysler is also recalling certain 2009 RAM 3500, RAM 2500, RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U03.
- Model: Dodge Dakota 2009
- Report Received Date: 2018-01-09
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger vehicles, and 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Chrysler is recalling certain 2009-2010 RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Chrysler is also recalling certain 2009 RAM 3500, RAM 2500, RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U03.
Latest negative Dodge Dakota car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Dakota car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
I have now owned my 2004 Dakota Quad Cab 4x4, V8 for almost 4 years and I still absolutely love it. It's a joy to drive, incredibly reliable, comfortable, and perfect for hauling things. I'm not sure why some people complain about the fuel consumption - I consistently get over 20mpg on the highway, usually around 22mpg. My previous 2002 Dakota with the V6 engine had the same fuel efficiency, but it lacked power and was quite dangerous. I make sure to do yearly maintenance and have had no issues whatsoever. In contrast, my 2002 Dakota V6 had several recalls and other problems. I adore this truck and plan on keeping it for a very long time!
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Vehicle year: 1997
I have only experienced one issue with this truck, which was the catalytic converter failing before the 100K mile warranty. Although the timing belt (or chain) has always made a slight clicking noise, it has never affected the truck's performance. In my opinion, this truck has been exceptional, with no significant or minor problems such as headlight or tail light failures.
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Vehicle year: 1993
My grandpa owned this truck for many years before me. He would still have it, but unfortunately, he couldn't handle the clutch anymore due to arthritis in his knees. As a poor 19-year-old, I bought it from him for $500 at 117k miles in 2007. Now, in 2016, just about to roll over 200k, I still can't imagine myself driving anything else. I believe it will rust out from under me before the engine quits. Colorado's long salty-road winters are eating it alive. In 2010, I drove it cross country from North Carolina to Denver, almost nonstop, with no issues. It was completely loaded down with everything I owned in the back. I swear it runs better loaded down than empty! I camp a lot, and it hauls about 1000 lbs of gear in the bed up to over 9000 ft. The steepest grade encountered is 15%, and it doesn't break a sweat. It's just a 3.9L V6 5 spd manual, but I get 19.5 mpg highway and 15-16 city. Even when hauling in the mountains, it still gets 18! I don't really go off-roading, just gravel and dirt roads, but even being only RWD, with my nice Michelin tires, it handles snow around town with no problem, up to 16It's such a great truck, I could never bring myself to trade it in. This truck deserves better than to be scrapped. I absolutely love it!
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Vehicle year: 1992
Great little truck! I'm so glad to hear that it's been dependable for you. With only 95,000 miles and no rust, it sounds like it's in great condition. Plus, the fresh paint job from 4 years ago is a nice touch. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with Dodge, I would definitely recommend them too!
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Vehicle year: 1995
It's great to hear that you're enjoying your vehicle! It sounds like it's able to handle all of your needs, including hauling your boat with ease. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!
Are you having problems with your Dodge Dakota?
Marcellus Weissnat 2025-05-16
Vehicle year: 2002
Your truck sounds amazing! It's great to hear that it's been so reliable for you. Even in the brutal Maine winters, it starts right up and runs strong. The 4wd is awesome and it outclasses any other trucks offroad. It's also great to hear that it's never given you any problems when you take it offroad through mud holes, rivers, and mountains every summer. Not only is it reliable, but it's also a very good looking truck and fun to drive. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Derick Lowe 2025-05-11
Vehicle year: 1999
With over 117,000 miles, this vehicle has proven to be completely reliable, achieving 17 city and 20+ highway miles per gallon with its 3.9L V6 engine. Regular maintenance has been performed, and a few parts have been replaced along the way, such as the water pump, power steering hose, idle motor, battery, filters, serpentine belt, shocks, and more. The biggest repair was replacing a couple of creaking factory front suspension links with zerk-equipped aftermarket units. In my opinion, the 'shift profile' of the automatic transmission upshifts too quickly for the V6, which can impact acceleration if you're not familiar with its behavior. However, it performs well on flat terrain, and although it downshifts frequently in hills (especially on cruise), it still meets my needs. Overall, I still enjoy driving this vehicle a lot.
Selmer Emmerich 2025-05-10
Vehicle year: 1990
Hi there! I'm a sixteen-year-old and I'm so excited to tell you about my first car! My dad bought it for me as a birthday gift when I turned fifteen, and I've been having a blast ever since. The only thing I'm not crazy about is the color - it's blue and silver with double red stripes down the side, and the chrome on the mirrors, bumpers, and front end is starting to show its age.
Stuart McGlynn 2025-05-07
Vehicle year: 2010
I had a much better experience with my 2004 model. Unfortunately, the car I purchased in this case had a lot of problems from the very beginning. While it had an awesome look, great power, and was roomy, it was plagued with numerous factory tsb's and defects, both mechanically and cosmetically. There were too many issues to count, and a representative was even sent in to investigate. Despite this, nothing was done, and I was even asked to file a lawsuit against the company. I ended up trading it in less than a year after purchasing it, with only 9000 miles on it. While it was nice looking, I was stuck with a brand new lemon with numerous problems. I would advise others to stay away from this car, as the factory tires are also of poor quality.
Neal Kulas 2025-04-28
Vehicle year: 1997
This vehicle has proven to be unreliable, with multiple issues arising within a year of purchase. Despite regular maintenance, including oil changes every 3000 miles and fluid changes every 20000-25000 miles, the vehicle experienced problems such as no heat, no air conditioning, lifters knocking, transmission slipping, and brake issues. The cost to fix these problems was estimated to be over $5000. These issues suggest that the vehicle has serious reliability concerns, which should be taken into consideration when making a purchase.