1996 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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Common 1996 Dodge Dakota problems
The Dodge Dakota is a compact pickup truck known for its reliability, but it still has some common problems that owners have reported. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues based on the search results:
- Engine Problems: Engine issues are prevalent in the Dodge Dakota, particularly in the 1999 model year. Some owners have reported that their truck randomly shuts off while driving or when it gets hot, with the vehicle cranking up and running after cooling down. This issue is often caused by an intermittent connection with the crank position sensor wire connector, which can reduce engine performance. Oil leaks are also a common problem in the 1997 Dodge Dakota, typically developing around the valve cover, intake manifold, timing cover, distributor O-ring, and the rear main seal.
- Intermediate Steering Shaft Noises: Many owners of the Dodge Dakota have reported noises coming from the intermediate steering shaft. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out bushings, loose bolts, or damaged components. It is essential to diagnose and fix this problem promptly, as it can affect the truck's handling and steering.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems are common in the Dodge Dakota, with some owners reporting that their truck has difficulty shifting into reverse or drive. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out clutch plates, damaged gears, or low transmission fluid levels. It is essential to diagnose and fix this problem promptly, as it can affect the truck's drivability and fuel efficiency.
- Fuel System Issues: Fuel system problems are also common in the Dodge Dakota, with some owners reporting issues with the fuel pump, fuel injectors, or fuel pressure regulator. These issues can cause the engine to stall, misfire, or run poorly. It is essential to diagnose and fix these problems promptly, as they can affect the truck's drivability and fuel efficiency.
- Electrical Issues: Electrical problems are also common in the Dodge Dakota, with some owners reporting issues with the battery, alternator, or wiring. These issues can cause the truck's lights to dim, the engine to stall, or the electrical system to malfunction. It is essential to diagnose and fix these problems promptly, as they can affect the truck's drivability and safety.
In conclusion, while the Dodge Dakota is a reliable compact pickup truck, it still has some common problems that owners have reported. These issues can affect the truck's drivability, fuel efficiency, and safety, so it is essential to diagnose and fix them promptly. By doing your research and knowing the common issues with the specific model year you're planning to get, buying a pre-owned Dodge Dakota should come with little risk.
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1996 Dodge Dakota get?
While boasting of a V-8, however, the Dakota 4×4 Sport we tested also comeswith a 13-m.p.g. city/18-m.p.g. highway rating when teamed with a 5-speedmanual transmission, about the mileage you'd expect from a full-sizepickup–with an automatic, not a 5-speed manual.
Are first gen Dodge Dakotas 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 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 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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1996 Dodge Dakota get?
While boasting of a V-8, however, the Dakota 4×4 Sport we tested also comeswith a 13-m.p.g. city/18-m.p.g. highway rating when teamed with a 5-speedmanual transmission, about the mileage you'd expect from a full-sizepickup–with an automatic, not a 5-speed manual.
What was the first generation of the Dodge Dakota?
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.
1996 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:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Dodge Dakota vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Dodge Dakota
The NHTSA has received 216 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Dodge Dakota. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Dodge Dakota vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-01
- VIN: 1B7GG23X2TS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE A 96 DODGE DAKOTA THAT FRAME IS RUSTING OUT. IT HAS RUSTED OUT WHERE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE CABLE HOOKS UP SO NOW NO EMERGENCY BRAKES. TUBULAR FRAME IS RUSTED OUT IN ABOUT 3 PLACES, A BUMPER BRACKET RUSTED OUT. I HAVE TRIED TWICE TO PAINT FRAME WITH OUT ANY SUCCESS. BODY IS NOT RUSTING AT ALL. I AM ALSO A VOLUNTEER FIRE FIGHTER. CALLED DODGE AND THEY SAID THERE IS NOTHING THEY ARE DOING TO FIX OR RECALL THIS PROBLEMS DONE RESEARCH AND MINE IS NOT THE ONLY ONE THIS IS BEEN HAPPENING TO. INCLUDED A YOUTUBE VIDEO OF ONE THAT THEY TOOK THE BODY OFF OF HTTP://WWW.BING.COM/VIDEOS/SEARCH?Q=96+DODGE+DAKOTA+FRAME+PROBLEMS+YOUTUBE&VIEW=DETAIL&MID=4094674F6964C6F203F74094674F6964C6F203F7&FORM=VIRE
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-15
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE WAS FRACTURED. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-02
- VIN: 1B7FL26X1TW
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE HEADLIGHTS GO OUT GOING DOWN THE ROAD.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-10
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: AT IDLE/PARK MY 1996 DODGE DAKOTA 4X4 V8 5.2L SLT WILL SPUTTER AND SOMETIMES KILL THE ENGINE. NOW I'M NOT SURE IF THAT'S A SAFETY FEATURE SO THE ENGINE DOESN'T OVER FLOOD ITSELF, BUT I'VE REPLACED THE IAC VALVE, PCV VALVE, DISTRIBUTOR ROTOR/CAP, AND SPARK PLUGS WITH NO IMPROVEMENT. I RECENT HAD A PROBLEM WHERE THE CONDITIONS OUT WE'RE SOMEWHAT ICY AND MID TURN INTO A PARKING LOT I TOOK A BLOW TO A FIRE HYDRANT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE KILLED ITSELF, MEANING LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. I WAS FINE, BUT MY VEHICLES BODY TOOK THE DAMAGE. LUCKILY THE AIRBAG SYSTEM DIDN'T DEPLOY BUT THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN BROUGHT UP A LOT WITH THE 1995-1996 DAKOTAS. AND HONESTLY I'M SCARED THAT THE VEHICLE MIGHT DO THIS WHILE ON THE FREE WAY. ALSO, OF 3 O2 SENSORS THAT'S JUST ABOVE THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, ALL THREE HAVE LEFT THE VEHICLES CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON AND HAVE TESTED FAULTY. I HAVE YET TO RETURN TO THE EXHAUST SYSTEMS SHOP TO SEE IF THEY CAN FIX IT DUE TO IT BEING UNDER WARRANTY, BUT MY MECHANIC SAID THAT IT MOSTLY BECAUSE THERE'S AN UNNEEDED AMOUNT OF EXTRA POWER GOING TO THE O2 SENSOR WHICH IS CAUSING IT TO FAULT. ANYHOW, I APPRECIATE ANYTHING THAT CAN BE LOOKED AT INTO THIS, BECAUSE I DO LIVE ON A HILLY SUBURB AND I RATHER NOT TAKE THE FAULT OF MY VEHICLE FAILING AND DAMAGING STATE, NEIGHBORS OR EVEN MY OWN PROPERTY, LET ALONE MYSELF GETTING HURT. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-04
- VIN: 1B7FL26P3TS
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON STARTING THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS A RAPID INCREASE IN ENGINE RPMS. THE CONTACT SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED WHEN HE RESTARTED THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-01
- VIN: 1B7GG23X7TS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE DOOR HINGE BROKE 11/20/ 2010 PAINT OFF HOOD AND TOP . THEY WERE PAINTED THREE TIMES WHILE UNDER WARRANTY. 1996 MODEL WITH 69,000 MILES. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-21
- VIN: 1B7FL26XXTW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: LIGHT SWITCH ON 1996 DODGE DAKATO,WIRES ON SWITCH WAS BURNING UP TOOK TO DODGE DEALER AND WAS ASK IF I TOWED ANYTHING MY ANSWER WAS YES HIS RESPONSE WAS THAT THE SWITCH WAS NOT COMPATIBLE FOR TOWING WHICH CAUSE MY CONNECTION TO BURN.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JB3XE74C3NY
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: MY SON DIED IN DEC 12,2002 IN A 1996 DODGE STEALTH TWO DAYS AFTER HE DIED I RECEIVED THE RECALL NOTICE. CAR LOST CONTROL ON FREEWAY AND WENT OFF ROAD AND ROLLED. HE JUST PUT A TRANSMISSION AND REPLACED CLUTCH, AND PUT IN NEW ENGINE THROUGH TRACY DODGE IN TRACY, CA. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-01
- VIN: 1B76L23X3TS
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE DAKOTA. HE STATED THAT THE FRONT SEAT BELTS HAVE FALLEN APART. HE ALSO STATED THAT HE WAS UNABLE TO RELEASE THE SEAT BELT AND WAS FORCED TO CRAWL OUT. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WERE RECALLS; HOWEVER, THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE SEAT BELTS. THEY OFFERED TO REPLACE THE SEAT BELTS; BUT HE WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE LABOR. THE SEAT BELTS HAVE NOT BEEN REPLACED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 160,000. THE VIN APPEARS TO BE INVALID.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-21
- VIN: 1B7GG23X3TS
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*-THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS 1996 DODGE DAKOTA HAS HAD 2 REPLACEMENT OF THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT LATCH. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LATCH IS MADE OF PLASTIC AND THE SPRINGS CONTINUE TO FALL FROM IT. HE STATED THAT HE HAS TO REPLACE THIS AGAIN AND FELT THAT THIS WAS A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT USED ON THIS VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 66,000.
SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-27
- VIN: 1B7GL23X6TS
- Components: SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: OCTOBER 27, 2006 I TOOK 2 FRIENDS TO TOWN AND WHEN THE PERSON IN THE MIDDLE SEAT COULD NOT GET THE SEAT BELT TO RELEASE AFTER SEVERAL TRIES I CUT THE SEAT BELT TO GET HIM OUT. NOVEMBER 2, 2006 I WAS PICKING UP MY HUSBAND FROM THE DOCTORS OFFICE AND MY SEAT BELT WOULD NOT RELEASE AND AGAIN I HAD TO CUT THE SEAT BELT, SO I COULD GET OUT. ON A RECENT TRIP OF 2400 MILES THE OIL GAUGE WAS PASSED THE MIDDLE OF THE GAUGE WHICH NEAR THE (H) WHEN THIS STARTED HAPPENING THE DASH LIGHTS WENT OUT AND I HAD TO STOP AND LET THE MOTOR COMPLETELY COOL DOWN BEFORE THE LIGHTS WOULD WORK AGAIN IN THE DASH. ON THE WAY HOME FROM MICHIGAN THE ACCELORATOR PEDEL FELL OFF IN THE MOUNTAINS IN GEORGIA AND I HAD TO PUT THE PLASTIC HOLDERS ON VERY CAREFULLY SO I COULD GET TO THE NEXT TOWN AND THERE A AUTO PARTS STORE EMPLOYEE PUT A (C) CLAMP ON THE HOLDER TO SECURE THE PEDAL ENOUGH FOR ME TO MAKE IT HOME. I STILL HAD 400 MILES TO GO AND WAS VERY APPREHENSIVE ALL THE WAY HOME AND NOW WITH THE SEAT BELT FAILURES I AM VERY UNCOMFORTABLE DRIVING THE TRUCK . WE ARE RETIRED AND CAN NOT AFFORD TO BUY ANOTHER VEHICLE OR WE WOULD PUT THIS IN THE JUNK YARD. THIS HAS BEEN A VERY GOOD TRUCK UP UNTIL NOW AND WE HAVE NEVER ABUSED IT IN ANY WAY AND NEVER HAD AN ACCIDENT.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-08
- VIN: 1B7GG23Y3TS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1996 DODGE DAKOTA SLT, 5.2L, 4DR ( 99,000 MI) FAILED CA EMISSION TEST ON 7/8/06. SUSPECTED REASON FOR THE HIGH EMISSION WAS FAILURE OF THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. DAIMLER CHRYSLER CORP. (DCC) WILL NOT REPLACE THIS CONVERTER AT THEIR EXPENSE EVEN THOUGH THEY HAVE A RECALL ON SOME 1.5 MILLION 1996 - 2001 VEHICLES FOR FAILED CONVERTERS. NO LETTER WAS RECEIVED FROM THEM AND WHEN CONTACTED, THEY SAY THE VEHICLE IS NOT ON THE LIST FOR RECALL. I BELIEVE THIS VEHICLE SHOULD BE ON THE LIST. *NM
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-31
- VIN: 1B7GG23XXTS
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 15 MPH THE BOLT THAT HOLDS THE BACK OF THE DRIVER SEAT FRACTURED CAUSING THE SEAT TO FALL BACKWARDS. ALTHOUGH THE DEALERSHIP AND MANUFACTURER WERE ALERTED, NO INSPECTIONS HAVE BEEN MADE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-08
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATES THE FUSE IN THE RELAY SWITCH WAS MISSING FROM ANTI LOCK BRAKES. HE CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP AND THE MANUFACTURER, AND THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE WHY THE FUSE WAS MISSING.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-24
- VIN: 1B3HD56F1TF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RIDING DOWN I 85 MY ENGINE JUST STOPPED DUE TO A TIMING BELT BREAKAGE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-14
- VIN: 1B7GG23X9TS
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE FRONT SEAT BELTS ARE INOPERABLE. THE BUCKLES ON THE BELTS DO NOT SNAP.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-29
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG SYSTEM WAS DEFECTIVE ON 1996 DODGE DAKOTA. UPON IMPACT THE AIRBAG FAILED TO DEPLOY. *BF *SC *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-07
- VIN: 2B3HD46F8TH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: BOTH SIDES OF FUEL RAIL LEAKING THAT COULD HAVE STARTED A FIRE UNDER THE HOOD OR A EXPLOSEN OF MY CAR.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-26
- VIN: 2B4FP2530TR
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SERIOUS TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS, 4 MONTHS AFTER I BOUGHT THE MINI VAN IT HAD TO BE SERVICED, WHICH WAS COVERED UNDER THE 24 MONTHS/24000 MILE EXTENDED WARRANTY THAT I PURCHASED WITH THE VEHICLE FOR $1495. 2ND VISIT ON 9/24/01 TRANS SLIPPING IN 3RD GEAR. PER MECHANIC THE SNAP RING SNAPPED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. AGAIN THE TRANSMISSION WENT ON 8/26/02. IT NEEDED A REBUILT & RECONDITIONED 6710 TRANSMISSION & REBUILT/RECONDITIONED TORQUE CONVERTER ALSO A FILTER TOTALING $1588.99. ON 2/26/03 RETURNED BACK TO THE SHOP FOR A BLEW REAR DIFFERENTIAL & PASSENGER SIDE AXLE TOTALING $609.50. I WAS TOLD THAT THIS WOULDN'T BE COVERED UNDER THE LIFETIME WARRANTY THAT I HAVE ON THE VAN BECAUSE THE VAN GOT STUCK IN THE SNOW AND I CAUSED IT TO BLOW, WHICH IS RIDICULES. NOW THE SHOP THAT I GOT THE WORK DONE AT IS OUT OF BUSINESS AND NOW AT A NEW LOCATION UNDER A NEW NAME WITH THE SAME PERSON THERE. I WAS TOLD THAT MY LIFETIME WARRANTY WOULDN'T BE COVERED AT THE NEW LOCATION AND THAT I WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR ANY REPAIRS NEEDED ON THE TRANSMISSION. THE COMPANY THAT DID THE WORK WHERE I RECEIVED THE LIFETIME WARRANTY ON THE TRANSMISSION IS MOJE, INC. GOODEAL MOTORS & TRANSMISSIONS LOCATED AT 1730 MACDADE BLVD., FOLSOM, PA 19033; (610) 583-1101. THE NEW NAME IS MOTORS & TRANSMISSIONS. LOCATION IS AT 2500 WASHINGTON AVE., PHILA. PA 16146; (610) 583-1101. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-20
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WITHIN ONE MONTH OF EACH OTHER, EACH OF MY TWO FRONT FIRESTONE TIRES WENT FLAT. THE TREADS WERE SHREADED AND COMING LOOSE FROM THE TIRE. ONE OF THESE EVENTS OCCURED WHILE DRIVING ON A FREEWAY. THERE WERE NO WARNING SIGNS AND TIRES HAD BEEN RECENTLY CHECKED FOR TREAD DEPTH, BALANCE AND INFLATION. *JB
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-15
- VIN: 1B7GG23YXTS
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: DEAR DAVID, THANK YOU FOR YOUR RECENT EMAIL TO DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOTORS REGARDING YOUR 996 DODGE DAKOTA. I'M SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE RECURRING PROBLEM YOU'VE EXPERIENCED WITH YOUR PARKING BRAKE. DAIMLERCHRYSLER ORIGINAL MOPAR PARTS ARE DESIGNED WITH THE HIGHEST STANDARDS IN MIND. WE HAVE EVERY CONFIDENCE IN THE QUALITY OF OUR PARTS. THOUGH MOPAR PRODUCTS ARE BUILT TO LAST, WE DO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT, AS WITH ALL MAN-MADE MATERIALS, THEY ARE SUSCEPTIBLE TO WEAR, AND MAY REQUIRE REPLACEMENT EARLIER THAN WHAT MAY BE PERCEIVED AS NORMAL. OUR SINCEREST APOLOGIES FOR THE PROBLEMS YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED. REFERENCE NUMBER: 12386546 REPLY LINK: HTTP://WWW.CHRYSLER.COM/WCCSAPP/WCCS/BRAND_FORMS/US/REPLY.JSP?TRK_ID=KMM1465401C0KM& SINCERELY, BRYAN DILLEY SENIOR STAFF REPRESENTATIVE DAIMLERCHRYSLER CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER ORIGINAL MESSAGE FOLLOWS: ------------------------ CATEGORY: RECALL INFORMATION BRIEF DESCRIPTION: ------------------ I BOUGHT A 1996 DAKOTA 4WD IN 1998 FROM A PRIVATE OWNER. THE PARKING BRAKE WAS BROKEN. THE LOCAL DEALER REPLACED IT. MY 100-POUND WIFE JUST BROKE IT AGAIN. SO, WHAT IS UP WITH THIS? COMMENTS: --------- THE FIRST TIME I HAD IT REPLACED THE DEALER TOSSED OUT THE BROKEN BRAKE ACTUATOR RATHER THAN RETURNING IT TO ME. AN INSPECTOR FROM CHRYSLER MOTORS STOPPED BY MY HOUSE TO SEE WHAT HAPPENED. IN THAT INCIDENT I WAS ALMOST RUN OVER BY THE TRUCK WHEN THE BRAKE FAILED. HE SAID THERE WAS NOTHING HE COULD DO WITHOUT THE BRAKE ACTUATOR TO INSPECT. A PARKING BRAKE IS NOT SOMETHING THAT SHOULD EVER FAIL IN THE LIFE OF A VEHICLE. WHY IS THIS ONE BREAKING SO OFTEN? FIRST NAME: DAVID LAST NAME: WAGNER. *AK
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B7GL23X9TS
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS PARKING BRAKE DISENGAGED BY ITSELF WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. CONSUMER DROVE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK THE CONSUMER ALSO HAD A 1995 DAKOTA THAT HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. THE 1995 DAKOTA WAS TOTALED AFTER WHEN THE PARKING BRAKE FAILED AND THE VEHICLE ROLLED DOWN THE DRIVEWAY AND INTO THE CONSUMER'S BARN. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-03
- VIN: 1B7GL23Y8TS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MORE HISTORY ON MY 1996 DODGE TRUCK WITH ENGINE STALLING PROBLEMS. THE ENGINE LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON AND THE TRUCK IS NOW RUNNING ROUGH. THE LAST DODGE DEALERSHIP IN MIAMI, OKLAHOMA COULDN'T FIND THE PROBLEM. THEY NOW TELL ME THAT THEY WOULD PREFER I NOT BRING MY TRUCK BACK TO THEM. DODGE CORP'S CUSTOMER SERVICE WAS RUDE, TELLING ME THAT HE TRUCK IS OUT OF WARRANTY NOW (EVEN THOUGH IT WAS IN FOR THIS SAME PROBLEM WHILE UNDER WARRANTY AND THEY CAN'T FIND/FIX THE PROBLEM); THE REP TELLS ME THAT IT'S OUR TOUGH LUCK NOW--VERY RUDE. WHEN I ASKED TO SPEAK WITH THE SUPERVISOR OR DISTRICT MANAGER FOR MY AREA, THE REP TOLD ME SHE HAD THE FINAL SAY, I DIDN'T HAVE A WARRANTY, AND SHE DIDN'T HAVE TO HELP ME LOCATE THE DISTRICT MANAGER FOR MY AREA. YOU HAVE MY EXTENSIVE HISTORY/COMPLAINTS ON FILE WITH THIS TRUCK (PEELING PAINT, FLAT BEARING IN OVERDRIVE, 4 BENT WHEELS, RECURRING ENGINE STALLS TO NAME ONLY A FEW OF THE MAJOR ISSUES). WHAT IS A CONSUMER TO DO NOW. DON'T TELL ME TO FIND AN ATTORNEY--TOO EXPENSIVE AND I WON'T END UP WITH ENOUGH MONEY TO FIX THE TRUCK THE WAY IT SHOULD BE FIXED. CAN'T SELL TO ANYONE FOR WHAT IT SHOULD BE WORTH DUE TO THESE ISSUES, AND WON'T SELL THIS WAY DUE TO MY CONSCIOUS. THIS TRUCK IS GOING TO KILL US ONE WAY OR ANOTHER.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-09
- VIN: 1B7GL23Y9TS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A TIRE SHOP TO HAVE THE TIRES ROTATED AND TO GET A FRONT END ALIGNMENT. THE TECHNICIAN DETERMINED THAT THE UPPER BALL JOINTS WERE WEARING PREMATURELY. *AK *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B7GG23X3TS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLED AND DID NOT RE-START. VEHICLE STALLED AT LEAST 3 TIMES IN THE LAST 6 MONTHS.*AK
1996 Dodge Dakota recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1996 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:POWER ASSIST
- Summary: THE POWER BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM HOSE COULD BE IMPROPERLY INSTALLED AND NOT CLAMPED TO THE BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM NIPPLE.
- Consequence: A DISCONNECTED VACUUM HOSE CAN CAUSE AN INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED AND LOSS OF BRAKE POWER ASSIST DURING BRAKE APPLICATION WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLES TO INSURE THAT THE BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM HOSE CONNECTION IS FULLY SEATED AND CLAMPED TO THE VACUUM CHECK VALVE NIPPLE AT THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
Negative 1996 Dodge Dakota car reviews
Positive 1996 Dodge Dakota car reviews
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I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to share my experience with my Dakota, which I purchased brand new in 1996. Despite having 140,000 miles on it, it is still going strong and has not given me any major issues. While the interior quality could be improved, I find the comfort level to be great, especially since I am 6'6
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Hi there! Just wanted to let you know that I change the oil every 4500 miles. Also, I recently had to replace the water pump which cost me $330.00.
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I absolutely love my Dakota trucks! From my first one, a rebuilt salvage 1993 SLT ext cab, to my perfect 94, and now my current perfect 96 model, I have always found them to be easy and safe to handle due to their center of gravity. The ride is much stronger than that of an S-10 or Ford Ranger. Even after 200,000 miles, my Dakota still looks great and is incredibly dependable. While the gas economy is better in the 94, I still get around 20mpg. If you're thinking of getting one, I recommend buying with as few miles and limited transferred ownership as possible. My Dakota has pulled a horse trailer, pop-up camper, and small sailboat with ease. It's also low to the ground, making it easy for me to get in and out of. I suggest sticking with the V6, V8, and 4x4 models and avoiding the sport version.
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Your Dakota is a great truck!
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I bought my Dakota with 182,000 miles on it and it was a great deal at $1,900. Despite the harsh winters and my rough driving, the truck held up really well. I only had to do minor repairs, spending roughly $400, and never had to touch the engine. I eventually sold it to a friend for $1,100 and it's still going strong with 265,000 original miles! All he's done is oil changes. I had the best times of my life in that old truck and I'm currently searching everywhere to find another one. 2wd 3.9 v6 magnum 5 speed sports are both fun and dependable. By the way, I won't be buying another Ford again.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Dodge Dakota problems:
1996 Dodge Dakota Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Dodge Dakota? Our list of 16 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Dodge Dakota.
must read: 96 v6 dodge Dakota stalling problem fixed!! easy fix ...
Aug 10, 2016 ... For some reason the middle clip does not fit tight enough to the computer and over time will cause your truck to stall. The simple solution I ...
1996 Dodge Dakota - Possibly blown ECM?
Apr 6, 2016 ... Wire breakage and chafing is a common problem on Dodge 'truck' - vehicles ... Test for battery power to ignition coil etc.. Diagnostic flow ...
Common Dodge Dakota Transmission Problems - Q&A for 1998 ...
Jul 27, 2010 ... What causes upshifting or downshifting to stop working in my 1998. I have a 1998 dodge dakota 3.9 with an automatic transmission that is not ...
1ST Generation Dodge Dakota: 1987 - 1996 | Dakota Forumz
Dodge Dakota Electrical Problems & Questions. 1.8K 1.1M 1d ago · Dodge Dakota Body & Interior Problems/Questions. 485. 408K. Mar 20, 2024 · Dodge Dakota Heating ...
Other years of Dodge Dakota
Are you having problems with your 1996 Dodge Dakota?
Laron McKenzie 2025-01-06
I purchased this truck in 1998 for $8900 and paid it off in just 4 years. For the next 6 years, I drove it virtually maintenance-free, only needing to replace the fuel pump at 100k miles and the engine computer shortly after. Despite the engine light coming on, the dealership has been unable to identify any issues and the truck continues to run great. The air conditioning still works perfectly and it always starts up without any issues. While it may need a new paint job, I am hesitant to invest any more money into it and may consider using it for the Cash for Clunkers program recently signed into law. Overall, this has been the best car purchase I have ever made. Although I am unsure how to pass inspection with the check engine light on, I have a few months to figure it out.
Jadon Funk 2024-10-01
I like my truck, but sometimes it dies when I stop at a long light. Therefore, I can't drive it to town. It gives no warning, just dies. However, when you start it back up, it runs great.
Muhammad Bashirian 2024-07-11
I have a 96 Dakota SLT Club Cab V6 with 90k miles. Although it has had some issues such as transmission, AC, plebium gasket leak, water pump, alternator, and fuel gauge inaccuracies, I still appreciate the truck's appearance and overall comfort. The engine choices are better than the competition, but the V6 could use more power. It gets an average of 16mpg in mixed driving and is slightly bigger than the competition. The interior is outdated, but the next generation has made significant improvements in this area. Overall, I would not highly recommend this truck due to its poor reliability, but it's possible that I may have owned a lemon. This is just my personal experience, so take it for what it's worth.
Ramon Doyle 2024-06-08
I've had this truck for 6 months, it's the first Dodge I've ever owned. My dad convinced me to buy it, but unfortunately, I've learned a couple of things from this experience. Firstly, I've decided that Dodge is not the brand for me. Secondly, when the check engine light comes on, it's a sign that it's time to move on. I've had to invest more money into this truck than I ever did with my old 1988 Ranger, which has over 300,000 miles on it. Needless to say, I'm not a fan of this truck.
Danny Weimann 2024-03-07
Hi there! I have a 96 Dakota Club Cab SLT with a 3.9L V6 engine, automatic transmission, and only 90k miles. While it has had some reliability issues, such as the transmission going out at 30k miles (which was fixed under warranty), and some other problems like the AC, water pump leak, plenum gasket leak, alternator, dash lights, and fuel gauge, it still has some positives. It's larger than its competitors and averages a respectable 16mpg in mixed driving. However, I do feel that the V6 engine is a bit underpowered and would recommend the V8 instead. Thanks for reading!