1986 Dodge Dakota problems

Common 1986 Dodge Dakota problems

The Dodge Dakota, produced from 1987 to 2011, was a mid-size pickup truck known for its conventional design, body-on-frame construction, and leaf spring/live axle rear end. Despite its strengths, certain model years have been identified as problematic due to engine issues, brake problems, and body/paint troubles.

Engine Problems:
Engine troubles were prevalent in several Dodge Dakota models, particularly the 2000 and 2006 models. These issues include:

• Loss of oil pressure due to oil sludge: Oil sludge can cause a loss of oil pressure, leading to engine damage if not addressed promptly.

• Fluctuating idle: A fluctuating idle can indicate various engine problems, such as issues with the fuel system, ignition system, or vacuum leaks.

• Recurring misfire on the same cylinder: A recurring misfire on the same cylinder suggests a problem with the spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. This issue can lead to decreased performance and increased emissions.

Brake Issues:
Brake problems were particularly prominent in the 2002 Dodge Dakota model. The main issues reported include:

• Brake cylinder lockup: Brake cylinder lockup can cause the vehicle to pull to one side or even become immobile. This issue can be caused by various factors, including contaminated brake fluid, damaged brake lines, or a faulty master cylinder.

• Smoking hot brakes: Overheated brakes can produce smoke, indicating excessive friction or heat buildup. This problem can be caused by worn-out brake pads, damaged brake rotors, or a malfunctioning brake system.

• Brake lockup: Brake lockup can occur when the brakes engage suddenly and unexpectedly, potentially causing the vehicle to lose control. This issue can be caused by various factors, including a faulty brake system, contaminated brake fluid, or damaged brake lines.

Body/Paint Troubles:
Body and paint issues were prevalent in the 2000 Dodge Dakota model. The main concerns reported include:

• Paint fading off the top of the roof: This issue can be caused by exposure to sunlight, harsh weather conditions, or poor-quality paint.

• Oxidation of the clear coat on the roof: Oxidation of the clear coat can lead to a dull, hazy appearance on the roof. This issue can be caused by exposure to sunlight, harsh weather conditions, or poor-quality clear coat.

• Rusting wheel wells: Rusting wheel wells can be caused by exposure to moisture, salt, and other corrosive substances. This issue can lead to structural damage and decreased vehicle value if not addressed promptly.

While the Dodge Dakota was a reliable mid-size pickup truck, certain model years experienced engine, brake, and body/paint issues. The 2000, 2002, and 2006 model years are particularly noteworthy for these problems. Potential buyers should exercise caution when considering these model years and ensure thorough inspections are conducted before making a purchase decision.

What was the worst year for the Dodge Dakota?

The 2002 model is easily the worst Dodge Dakota out of all of them, and brakes are the leading trouble with this vehicle. Almost sixty-nine people reported brake problems with this model. Some of the specific brake troubles include: Brake cylinder lockup.

Is a Dodge Dakota a reliable truck?

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.

What are common Dodge Dakota 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.

What was the worst year for the Dodge Dakota?

The 2002 model is easily the worst Dodge Dakota out of all of them, and brakes are the leading trouble with this vehicle. Almost sixty-nine people reported brake problems with this model. Some of the specific brake troubles include: Brake cylinder lockup.

Is a 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.

Is the first generation Dakota reliable?

What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (1987–1996) Dakota? Dakota owners have made 72 complaints about the 1987–1996 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 17th out of 54 Dodge generations in overall reliability , with some engine and body concerns.

What are common Dodge Dakota 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.

1986 Dodge Dakota car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Dakota problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Dodge Dakota vehicle components and the number of complaints received.