2010 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 2010 Dodge Dakota problems
The 2010 Dodge Dakota is a powerful pickup truck known for its towing capacity and V8 power. However, like any vehicle, it may have certain issues that potential buyers should be aware of.
One common problem with the 2010 Dodge Dakota is engine issues. These problems can range from loss of oil pressure due to oil sludge to fluctuating idle and recurring misfire on the same cylinder. These issues can lead to expensive repairs and should be carefully considered before purchasing a 2010 Dodge Dakota.
Another issue that has been reported by owners of the 2010 Dodge Dakota is brake problems. These issues can include brake cylinder lockup, smoking hot brakes, and brake lockup. These problems can be dangerous and should be addressed promptly if they occur.
Body and paint issues have also been reported by owners of the 2010 Dodge Dakota. These issues can 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 of the vehicle and may require expensive repairs.
It is important to note that the 2010 Dodge Dakota has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal, indicating that it is a relatively reliable vehicle. However, potential buyers should still be aware of these common issues and consider them when making their purchasing decision.
To avoid these issues, potential buyers may want to consider purchasing a used Dodge Dakota from a later model year, such as the 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, or 2011. These model years have been rated as some of the best for the Dodge Dakota, with few reported issues.
In conclusion, while the 2010 Dodge Dakota is a powerful and capable pickup truck, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues that have been reported by owners. By doing their research and considering these issues, buyers can make an informed decision and choose a vehicle that meets their needs and budget.
Is a 2010 Dodge Dakota a good truck?
Edmunds says. When it comes to towing, the 2010 Dodge Dakota is still top dog among midsize pickups. Unfortunately, the competition trounces the Dakota when it comes to affordability and refinement.
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.
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.
Is the 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.
Is a 2010 Dodge Dakota a good truck?
Edmunds says. When it comes to towing, the 2010 Dodge Dakota is still top dog among midsize pickups. Unfortunately, the competition trounces the Dakota when it comes to affordability and refinement.
Is the Dodge Dakota a reliable car?
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.
Why did they stop making Dodge 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.
2010 Dodge Dakota complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2010 Dodge Dakota.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2010 Dodge Dakota recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2010 Dodge Dakota.
- 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.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant. With this change, Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Chrysler is also recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.C., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Chrysler is recalling certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or registered, in AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.
- Consequence: These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. These inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM owners. Mitsubishi owners will be notified by their company. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S43. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-7700.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler and Dodge owners and Mitsubishi will notify the affected Raider owners. Dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began for Chrylser on June 8, 2015. The recall for Mitsubishi started on June 24, 2015. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Mitsubishi owners may call 1-888-648-7820. Chrysler's number for this recall is R25. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V817 in its entirety. Vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler Group LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
- Summary: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured from February 27, 2008, through June 30, 2009, and from December 1, 2009, through October 20, 2011; model year 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota trucks manufactured from February 27, 2007, through June 30, 2009, and from December 1, 2009, through September 30, 2011; model year 2009 Chrysler Aspen trucks manufactured from January 3, 2008, through December 18, 2008; and model year 2009 Dodge Durango trucks manufactured from January 3, 2008, through December 18, 2008. The rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to an undersized pinion spline that can allow relative motion between the nut and companion flange.
- Consequence: If the rear axle pinion nut loosens, the axle can lock up and cause a loss of vehicle control and/or a vehicle crash with little warning.
- Remedy: On November 7, 2013 Chrysler notified owners that dealers would install a pinion nut retainer, free of charge. In July 2015, and under a consent order with NHTSA, the company agreed to offer owners three options for remedying their vehicles: perform the original remedy, offer to repurchase the vehicle at the fair market value plus 10%, or offer an additional incentive offer towards the purchase of a new Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, or Fiat vehicle. Chrysler will notify owners of the new recall options in a letter expected to be mailed on August 31, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N08.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER GROUP LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
- Summary: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2009-2010, Ram 1500 and Dodge Dakota trucks, manufactured from July 1, 2009, through November 30, 2009, because the rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to a lack of adhesive.
- Consequence: If the rear axle pinion nut loosens, the axle can lock up and cause a loss of vehicle control and/or a vehicle crash with little warning.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a pinion nut retainer, free of charge. The recall began on June 17, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753.
- Manufacturer: NBC TRUCK EQUIPMENT, INC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
- Summary: NBC Truck Equipment, Inc. (NBC) is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 and model year 2010-2011 trucks equipped with Sure Power battery separator devices, due to overheating.
- Consequence: Overheating of the battery separator can result in smoke and possible fire.
- Remedy: NBC will notify owners, and Sure Power will replace the battery separators free of charge. The safety recall began November 26, 2012. Owners may contact NBC Truck Equipment, Inc. at 1-586-774-4900.
Negative 2010 Dodge Dakota car reviews
Positive 2010 Dodge Dakota car reviews
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Congratulations on your new 08 Dakota! It's great to hear that you're impressed with its looks, interior, and drive-ability. This truck may be smaller, but it's definitely capable. It's also great to hear that it's easy for your wife to maneuver in traffic and that the fit and finish is excellent. Plus, it's even better on gas than your old Hemi! The interior is also very quiet and the upgraded stereo is crisp and clear. I'm glad you're enjoying the Sirius radio option. It sounds like you had a bit of trouble finding room for all your gear from the Ram, but it's great that you were able to solve the issue by mounting one of the collapsible bins from the interior to the truck bed with sheet metal screws. Happy driving!
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Hey there! I just wanted to share with you how much I love my truck. It's actually a Sport w/V-8, crew cab and this is my 3rd Dakota. So far, it's my favorite! It's red, fast, looks sporty, handles great, rides good, doors open wide, seats are firm and supportive, tows like a champ, and looks good anywhere. Plus, it has the best warranty of anyone! I traded down from a full-size Chevy and I like this one better. It's easier to get in and out of and my wife loves the size. The mileage is 21-24 on the highway when driving sensibly, and of course, it's lower in the city. The acceleration is matched by nothing else in its' class, and the brakes and transmission work flawlessly. When you turn on your truck, does it return the favor? Mine sure does!
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The ride of this model is firm, but not uncomfortable, and is a noticeable improvement from previous years. The console and cup holder layout is greatly improved and all controls are easily accessible. The vehicle runs quietly and has had very few quality issues in our fleet. If you require serious power, I would recommend the V8, but my 3.7L has been able to accelerate well and maintain highway speeds. Overall, we have had a positive experience with Dakotas and are hopeful that this series will continue to improve.
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This truck is of high quality, however, it requires frequent repairs.
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I bought this PU as my retirement truck. It has been excellent. In the past 7 years, it is still like new and has never let me down. It just passed 23,000 miles and is still running great. I have had guys walk up and ask if I was thinking of selling it. I replaced the original tires as they were starting to check on the rim. It uses no oil between changes, which occur every 2,000 miles.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2010 Dodge Dakota problems:
Top 5 Problems Dodge Dakota Pickup 2005-2010 3rd Generation ...
Feb 22, 2023 ... ... problems with the 3rd generation Dodge Dakota Pickup! In this video, Len points out the most common issues you might find on your 2005-2010 ...
Q&A: 2010 Dodge Dakota Big Horn - Common Problems & Engine ...
Dec 20, 2015 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Common Dodge Dakota Problems - YouTube
Oct 5, 2017 ... In this video I give a quick rundown of common problems effecting Dodge Dakota Trucks. The subject vehicle has over 100K miles and has spent ...
2010 Dodge Dakota Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 2010 Dodge Dakota Problems · Cam Sensor Failure Causing no Start or Stalling. 179 people have reported this. 59 · Exhaust Manifold Bolts May Break. 178 ...
Considering a 2008-2011 Dakota - know issues? : r/DodgeDakota
May 9, 2021 ... I've done research to show the manifold bolts and steering knuckle are typical concerns to watch for. Are there any other concerns? I've seen ...
Other years of Dodge Dakota
Are you having problems with your 2010 Dodge Dakota?
Leo VonRueden 2024-11-24
I purchased a used 2010 Dakota 3.7 L Big Horn package in May 2019, and I have always been a fan of Dakota trucks. While the 6-cylinder engine is great for fuel economy, I have encountered a few issues. Firstly, I believe that Dodge should have equipped the truck with at least a 4.0 L engine for more power and towing capabilities. Secondly, the truck has been turning off inexplicably, which was initially attributed to the transmission overheating. However, I later discovered that the issue was with the loose ignition switch. Despite these issues, I still wish that Dodge (RAM) would bring back the Dakota. If they do, I suggest keeping the 2010 body, which is a true mid-sized truck, and offering larger 4.0 or bigger V-6 engines, as well as the Eco-Diesel in the 1500. Additionally, the cab could be reconfigured to make better use of the space. These are just a few of my suggestions.
Newell Johns 2024-11-14
I bought my 08 Dakota used with around 57,000 miles and it was in great shape with plenty of service records. However, over the past two years, I have had to replace several parts including balljoints, tie rods, wheel bearings, struts, calipers, fuel pump, rear end, transmission service (still slipping) and a new motor due to a rod knock. Unfortunately, the most recent issue is the steering rack + pinion and the power steering system is going bad. Despite my efforts to maintain it, this truck has proven to be unreliable, a gas hog, and an uncomfortable ride. While I have always been a Mopar fan, this experience has led me to reconsider my options for future purchases.
Isidro Schoen 2024-07-22
Replacing parts can be quite expensive, with shop labor costing $102 or more.
Emmett Denesik 2024-06-28
The 2008 Dakota has been a great truck so far! The V6 has a lot of low-end torque, but it may struggle going uphill or passing if the RPMs are not high enough. I have owned both 1st and 2nd generation Dakotas, and other than some brake issues, I have never had any problems with them.
Vincent Watsica 2024-05-23
The first night I owned the vehicle, I started it and noticed that the Variable Speed Fan was locked up, causing it to roar like an 18 wheeler. Additionally, there was a transmission problem where the vehicle would jolt when coming to a stop at 25 MPH. Despite multiple trips to the dealer, these issues were never resolved. Unfortunately, I had to get rid of the vehicle at 28,900 miles due to these persistent problems. It was a frustrating experience.