1993 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.
Social links
Common 1993 Dodge Dakota problems
The 1993 Dodge Dakota is a popular pickup truck, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the 1993 Dodge Dakota, based on complaints from owners of this car:
- Engine issues: Many 1993 Dodge Dakota owners have reported engine problems, including rough idling, stalling, and difficulty starting. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty ignition modules, worn spark plugs, and clogged fuel injectors.
- Transmission problems: Transmission issues are also common in the 1993 Dodge Dakota, with many owners reporting slipping, jerking, and difficulty shifting. These issues can be caused by low transmission fluid levels, worn clutch plates, and faulty solenoids.
- Electrical issues: Electrical problems are a common complaint among 1993 Dodge Dakota owners, with many reporting issues with the battery, alternator, and electrical wiring. These issues can be caused by loose connections, corroded wires, and faulty components.
- Suspension and steering problems: Suspension and steering issues are also common in the 1993 Dodge Dakota, with many owners reporting problems with the steering column, tie rods, and ball joints. These issues can be caused by worn out components, loose connections, and lack of maintenance.
- Body and paint issues: Body and paint issues are a common complaint among 1993 Dodge Dakota owners, with many reporting problems with rust, chipping paint, and body panels that don't fit properly. These issues can be caused by exposure to the elements, poor quality materials, and lack of maintenance.
It's important to note that not all 1993 Dodge Dakotas will experience these problems, and that proper maintenance and care can help prevent many of these issues from occurring. If you're considering purchasing a 1993 Dodge Dakota, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential issues before making a purchase.
Are Ram Dakotas reliable?
Are Dodge Dakotas 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. Cars.com rated the 2000 Dodge Dakota a 4.4 out of 5.0.
How long is a 93 Dodge Dakota?
189 to 208″1993 Dodge Dakota / Length
Why will my Dodge Dakota not start?
The most common reasons a Dodge Dakota won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
What years are the first generation Dodge Dakota?
The first generation of the Dakota was produced from 1986 through 1996 (for the 1987–1996 model years). The Dakota was the first pickup truck with rack-and-pinion steering (2WD only, and early years were available without power steering).
What engine does a 1990 Dodge Dakota have?
3.9 V6 EFI
Specifications for Dodge Dakota Regular Cab 3.9 V6 EFI 126hp, 1990 1st Generation (1987 - 1996)
How much does a 1990 Dodge Dakota weigh?
Used 1990 Dodge Dakota - Specs & Features
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 131.0 in. |
| Maximum towing capacity | 4,600 lbs. |
| Maximum payload | 1,450.0 lbs. |
| Gross weight | 5,080 lbs. |
Are Dodge Dakotas 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.
How much horsepower does a 1992 Dodge Dakota have?
Specifications for Dodge Dakota Regular Cab 5.2 V8 233hp, 1992.
1993 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Dodge Dakota vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1993 Dodge Dakota
The NHTSA has received 151 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Dodge Dakota. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1993 Dodge Dakota vehicles.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-06
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: 1993 DODGE DAKOTA HIGH BEAM FLASHING ON AND OFF
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-30
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1993 DODGE DAKOTA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS FAULTY. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-03
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B7FL26X3PS
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER OWNS A 1993 DODGE DAKOTA WITH FIRESTONE FIREHAWK ATX TIRES. HE STATED THAT WHILE HIS DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING 40 MPH, SHE EXPERIENCED A BLOWOUT ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE BLOWOUT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO FALL INTO A DITCH; IN ADDITION, THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE PURCHASE DATE AND TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,618 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 105,621.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-26
- VIN: 1D7HL48X03S
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONSUMER HAD A 1993 DODGE DAKOTA AND A NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE FRONT SUSPENSION OF THE VEHICLE. OWNER HAD TO REPLACE THE UPPER BALL JOINTS AFTER 32,000 MI. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER, AND WAS TOLD THAT THE NOISE THAT WAS BEING HEARD WAS NORMAL. PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-05
- VIN: 1B7GL23Y3PS
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THE HOOD BLEW INTO THE WINDSHIELD. THE MANUFACTURER DENIED THE CLAIM. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-04
- VIN: 1B7G62342PS
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: VEHICLE IS WELL MAINTAINED AND CARED FOR. LARGE CHUCKS OF PAINT PEELING FROM HOOD MOMENTARILY DISTRACT OR STARTLE DRIVER AND HAVE CAUSED SITUATIONS WHERE AN ACCIDENT WAS JUST BARELY AVOIDED. THE LAST INCIDENT A LARGE SHEET OF THE PAINT COVERED THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD OBSTRUCTING THE OPERATOR'S VIEW DURING RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC ON THE HIGHWAY. OPERATOR WAS ABLE TO AVOID COLLISION BY HITTING BRAKES AND TURNING ONTO THE ROADSIDE GRASS, AFTER JUMPING CURB AND NARROWLY MISSING A GUARD RAIL DAMAGE TO THE TRUCK WAS A BROKEN BALL JOINT AND A BENT CONTROL ARM. IT COULD HAVE BEEN WORSE HAD THE VEHICLE OVERTURNED! THE AFFECTED PAINT HAS BEEN SANDED AND PRIMED BUT OTHER SPOTS CONTINUE TO PEEL UP .*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-09-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1B7FL26X4PS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE CONSUMER WORKED FOR A GOVERNMENT AGENCY AND WAS FORCED TO DRIVE A DECOMMISSIONED VEHICLE. WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, THE CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD EXPLOSION. THE CONSUMER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER HAD SEPARATED FROM THE MUFFLER. THE CONSUMER SUFFERED PERMANENT HEARING DAMAGE DO TO THE EXPLOSION. *LA
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I BOUGHT A USED 1993 DODGE DAKATO IN APRIL OF 96, AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE THE PAINT WAS ALREADY FLAKING OFF IN LARGE PIECES(BLUE/SILVER), AND THE TRANSMISSION HAD BEEN REBUILT ONCE(60,000 MILES). SINCE THE TIME OF PURCHASE ALL OF THE PAINT IS GONE OFF THE HOOD AND ROOF, THE TRANSMISSION HAS BEEN COMPLETELY REBUILT AGAIN($1803.00), AND I REPLACED THE OVERHEAD CAM SENSOR 2X WITHIN 10 DAYS.I CONTACTED DODGE ABOUT THE PAINT FLAKING AND THEY OFFERED NO HELP.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-15
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9999
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE DRIVER NOTICED SMOKE, OPENED THE HOOD AND VIEWED THE ENGINE ON FIRE. *PH *SC
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-18
- VIN: 1B7FL23X0PS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE ABS LOCKED UP THE FRONT WHEEL, BUT THE REAR WHEEL KEPT TURNING. THE DEALER STATED IT WAS NORMAL . *AK THE CONSUMER ALMOST WRECKED 4-5 TIMES WHEN SLIPPERY. THE MASTER CYLINDER WAS FOUND LEAKING AND THE ABS DIAGNOSTIC MODULE FAILED. *SC *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B7FL23X0PS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE VEHICLE DIDN'T HAVE REAR BRAKES. *PH THE MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE MASTER CYLINDER WAS LEAKING. *SC
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-15
- VIN: 1B7GG23Y4PS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: RED AND WHITE 93 DAKOTA. WHITE PAINT CHIPPING OFF. RED IS GOOD.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-15
- VIN: 1B7FL23X8PS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PAINT HAS BEEN PEELING ON THE ROOF OF THE CAB AND THE HOOD OF THE TRUCK. THE AREA WHERE THE PAINT HAS PEELED HAS NOW RUSTED.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-15
- VIN: 1B7GG23Y6PS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE NOT STARTED TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE PAINT DUE TO IT STARTED PEELING REALLY BAD A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO. A FRIEND OF MINE RECOMMENDED CONTACTING THE ZONE REPRESENTATIVE FROM DODGE TO SEE IF THEY WILL CORRECT THE ISSUE. I AM GOING CONTACT THE DEALERSHIP TO GET THE REPRESENTATIVE'S NAME. THE PAINT STARTED FLAKING SEVERAL YEARS AGO, NOTHING TO BE REALLY ALARMED AT. I JUST CHALKED IT UP TO NORMAL WEAR. TWO YEARS OR THREE YEARS AGO THE PAINT STARTED PEALING OFF IN SHEETS. A LIGHT BREEZE WILL FLAKE OFF A SHEET OF PAINT. NOW RUST IS STARTING TO SHOW ON THE AREAS THAT HAS HAD PAINT FLAKE OFF. PAINT HAS COME OFF THE HOOD AND CAB OF THE TRUCK. I WILL KEEP YOU POSTED. I LIKE YOUR WEBSITE. I FOUND SOME OF THE PROBLEMS OF MY TRUCK ON YOUR SITE, AT LEAST I KNOW THAT I AM NOT HEARING THINGS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-23
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: ELECTRIC BLUE PAINT ON EVERY DAKOTA LITERALLY FLAKING OFF THE ENTIRE VEHICLE RIGHT DOWN TO THE PRIMER,HAS TO BE A PAINT DEFECT,CHRYSLER SAYS TOO BAD. EVERY DODGE THAT IS THIS COLOR LOOKS THIS WAY.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B7GG23Y6PS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS HARD TO START AND STALLED WHILE DRIVING. *NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-01
- VIN: JH2RC44362M
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE VEHICLE RUNS FINE, BUT WHEN YOU STOP AT LIGHT OR SIGN THE VEHCLE WILL STALL. YOU CAN EVEN PUT IN NEUTRAL WHEN YOU STOP AND STILL STALLS. NOW THE TRUCK IS HAVING PROBLEMS STARTING. IT BACK FIRES AND RUNS ROUGH FOR A MIN. TO START YOU HAVE TO HOLD THE THROLLE DOWN FOR A MIN. HAS HAD FULL TUNE UP AND NEW CATALITIC CONVERT.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PAINT ON HOOD AND ROOF BEGAN TO BUBBLE (WHITE CHALKY APPEARANCE) AND PAINT BEGAN PEELING. MR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-02
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CONSUMER NOTICED THAT PAINT IS PEELING ONTO THE STRUCTURE AND BODY. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED, PLEASE CALL FEDERAL TRADE COMISSION AT 877-382-4357, PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *MR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-05
- VIN: 1B7GG23X7PS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THIS HAS OCCURRED TO OTHER OWNERS OF DODGE DAKOTAS. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B7FL26X7PS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE ROTOR AND DRUM WARPED DUE TO HEAT UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS.*JB
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: SEATBACK FAILED DURING ACCIDENT, CAUSING DRIVERS HEAD TO HIT REAR WINDOW. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1B7FL26X4PS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE LAW FIRM REPRESENTING CONSUMER EXPLAINS THAT THE VEHICLE JUMPED OUT OF PARK AND BACKED OVER HIM, CONSUMER SUFFERED SEVERE INJURIES.(ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT). *JG
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1B7FL26X4PS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE LAW FIRM REPRESENTING CONSUMER EXPLAINS THAT THE VEHICLE JUMPED OUT OF PARK AND BACKED OVER HIM, CONSUMER SUFFERED SEVERE INJURIES.(ATTORNEY FOR CLIENT). *JG
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-27
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: REPLACEMENT TIRES, 20000 MILES, P215/75R15, DOT# C4X3600 A05 R, WHILE TRAVELING AT 65MPH DRIVERS SIDE REAR TIRE SEPARATED, AND THEN THE TIRE BLEWUP/SPLIT ON SIDEWALL. *AK *JG
1993 Dodge Dakota recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1993 Dodge Dakota.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: SOME OF THE ABS EQUIPPED VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH AN UNDERSIZED BRAKE RETURN CHECK VALVE. IN INCIDENTS WHERE HARD BRAKE PEDAL EFFORT IS APPLIED ON LOW FRICTION ROAD SURFACES, LIKE RAIN COVERED STREETS, THE VALVES MAY FAIL, CAUSING THE ABS TO BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS CREATES EXCESS BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL AND MAY CAUSE THE ABS WARNING LIGHT TO COME ON.
- Consequence: LACK OF FRONT WHEEL ABS COULD CAUSE THE FRONT WHEELBRAKES TO LOCK, INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCE WHICH MAY RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE RETURN CHECK VALVE WITH THE CORRECT VALVE.
Negative 1993 Dodge Dakota car reviews
Positive 1993 Dodge Dakota car reviews
-
This is my second Dakota. I absolutely love this truck! The V8 engine is incredibly powerful and makes me feel like I'm driving the most powerful truck on the planet. The 60/40 bench seat is also very comfortable and the A/C is impressively strong. It can seat up to 6 passengers, although it's more suitable for small kids in the back.
-
I purchased the car used and experienced two initial problems that were satisfactorily corrected under warranty. However, at 125K miles, I had to replace the engine due to bad oil consumption, rear oil rings, and pitted cam. Although the new long block is functioning well, the fuel efficiency is not optimal. Despite these issues, the truck has been a reliable and enjoyable vehicle. It has performed well on 4x trails and continues to run smoothly.
-
The quality of the vehicle is good, and while the repairs needed are moderate, it runs well and provides a smooth ride with plenty of power.
-
Best truck I ever bought. It's been very reliable, even with over 100,000 miles this year.
-
I purchased this truck brand new back in 1993 and have been the proud owner ever since. The Dakota is a powerful, enjoyable and comfortable vehicle to drive. In fact, the driver's seat is the most comfortable chair I own. I once drove this truck non-stop from Taos, New Mexico to my home in North Texas and I was pain-free and comfortable throughout the entire journey, despite my back problems. The Dakota has a deep, throaty sound and has always provided me with all the power I need. Unfortunately, about a year and a half into ownership, the rear end went out. However, the dealership replaced the rear end and U-joints at no charge. Overall, I can confidently say that this is a great truck!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1993 Dodge Dakota problems:
1993 Dodge Dakota Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
Problem with your 1993 Dodge Dakota? Our list of 20 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1993 Dodge Dakota.
Common problems with 1993 club cab? : r/DodgeDakota
Jun 4, 2021 ... The transmission is a slightly different story, dodge transmissions are generally not very reliable, however as long as your not doing anything ...
**FAQ -----General Info, Common problems, Factory Service ...
Aug 29, 2006 ... (This problem is common to not just the Dakota ... 1995 Dodge Dakota Factory Service Manual PDF ... 1990-1993 Dodge · 1994-1996 Dodge · http://www ...
1993 dakota starting issues... | Allpar Forums
Jul 21, 2012 ... A common cause of hard hot starting and low idle is the Throttle Position Sensor. These can wear out so that the contact area inside is ...
Q&A: 1993 Dodge Dakota Computer Issues - Troubleshooting ECM ...
Aug 25, 2009 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Other years of Dodge Dakota
Are you having problems with your 1993 Dodge Dakota?
Ed McLaughlin 2024-10-27
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my truck. I've had it for about a year now and overall, I'm really pleased with it! The Magnum V8 is great for hauling and I've had no major issues. I did have a small wire problem with the transmission, but I was able to fix it easily. There was also a minor transmission oil leak, but nothing too serious. I did have to replace the factory sound system, but that's not a big deal. One thing to note is that the passenger's side cupholder is a bit silly and the center console could be better. If you're looking to upgrade your truck, I recommend putting at least 30 inch tires on it - it really gives it a nice lift for not too much money. Thanks for reading!
Vladimir Stehr 2024-08-06
I recently purchased one of these vehicles about a month ago, but unfortunately, I have had a negative experience with it. Although it had low mileage (98,000) and was clean, it has been difficult to maintain and repair due to the scarcity of parts. I have only driven it a few times, and each time was to have it repaired. Based on my experience, I would not recommend investing in this vehicle or accepting it as a gift. However, I do acknowledge that everyone's experience may differ. Thank you for considering my perspective.