“Ii had noted a clunking sound when turning into my driveway and at other times involving turning or driving over speed bumps or turning up an incline, also the steering feel had become vague. During my annual state insp. The mech stated that the upper ball joints on both sides were complely worn out, and as such could not pass it without repair.”
Owner complaint, filed Jun 10, 2005 at 84,000 miles
“The upper and lower ball joints wore out completely at 27,000 miles. *ak the consumer stated that a consistent rattling noise was heard coming from the front steering suspesion area. The consumer stated that the play inside the ball joint was severe. *tc”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 8, 2004 at 47,563 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the suspensionRecall (red: the suspension)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 1998 Dakota peaked in 2004, with 122 filed that year. Owners had filed 199 complaints about the suspension before the first recall that covers it, 08E064000 in October 2008; 1 more have come in since. In 2023 owners filed 1 so far.
Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Defect. SKF IS RECALLING 2,805 HUB UNITS, PART NO. BR930361, SOLD AS A SERVICE PART FOR 1997-2004 DODGE DAKOTA VEHICLES AND 1999-2003 DODGE DURANGO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2-WHEEL DRIVE & REAR AXLE ABS. DUE TO A SPECIFICATION ERROR, THE ROTOR PILOT FOR THE HUB UNIT MAY BE TOO LONG. THIS RESULTS IN THE WHEEL TO NOT BE SEATED FULLY AGAINST THE HUB FLANGE FACE DURING MOUNTING.
Risk. IMPROPER SEATING OF THE WHEEL CAN RESULT IN EXCESSIVE VIBRATION, BRAKE ROTOR NOISE, DIFFICULTY REMOVING THE WHEEL AFTER INSTALLATION AND OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE, AND POSSIBLY WHEEL-END SEPARATION DURING VEHICLE OPERATION. SHOULD WHEEL-END SEPARATION OCCUR, THE DRIVER COULD LOOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
Remedy. SKF WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE HUB UNITS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 5, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SKF VSM NORTH AMERICA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-644-8999.
Defect. CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
Filed Mar 23, 200661,944 vehiclesPro-A Motors, Inc.
Defect. CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN 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.
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy. PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Filed Mar 15, 200644,386 vehiclesK&n Engineering, Inc.
Defect. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT K&N FUEL PERFORMANCE KITS, P/NOS. 57-1509, 57-1511, 57-1511-1, 57-1517, 57-1517-1, 57-1527, AND 57-1530. ALSO, A SMALL PERCENTAGE OF THESE KITS WERE SOLD UNDER THE MOPAR PERFORMANCE PARTS BRAND NAME (P/NOS. P5007069 AND P5007070). ALL KITS WERE MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 20, 1999, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 23, 2004. THESE ASSEMBLIES WERE MANUFACTURED AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN DODGE PICKUP TRUCKS AND SUVS. A SMALL PIECE OF MATERIAL FROM THE TUBE WALL COULD BE SUCKED INTO THE ENGINE THROTTLE BODY, WHICH COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE TO BECOME JAMMED IN THE OPEN POSITION.
Risk. A JAMMED OPEN THROTTLE COULD CAUSE UNINTENDED ACCELERATION OF THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH OR INCREASED STOPING DISTANCES WHEN BRAKING.
Remedy. K&N WILL PROVIDE OWNERS WITH A FREE REPAIR KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 20, 2006.
Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.
Risk. LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. AFFINIA (BRAKE PARTS, INC.) WILL REPLACE THE SUBJECT BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AFFINA GROUP CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-323-0354.
Filed May 8, 2001216,100 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS. SOUND DEADENER MATERIAL INSIDE THE STEERING WHEEL COULD BECOME DETACHED FROM THE COVER AND HOUSING. NOTE: THE RAM PICKUP TRUCKS WERE BUILT AT THE WARREN ASSEMBLY PLANT ("S" IN THE 11TH VIN POSITION) FROM MAY 16, 2000 THROUGH OCTOBER 23, 2000; ST. LOUIS NORTH ASSEMBLY PLANT ("J" IN THE 11TH VIN POSITION) FROM MAY 19, 2000 THROUGH OCTOBER 23, 2000; LAGO ALBERTO ASSEMBLY PLANT ("M" IN THE 11TH VIN POSITION) FROM MAY 23, 2000 THROUGH OCTOBER 23, 2000; AND SALTILLO ASSEMBLY PLANT ("G" IN THE 11TH VIN POSITION) FROM MAY 23, 2000 THROUGH OCTOBER 23, 2000. IMPORTANT: VEHICLES THAT HAVE ALREADY HAD THE PROPER CLOCKSPRING INSTALLED, ACCORDING TO WARRANTY RECORDS, HAVE BEEN EXCLUDED FROM THIS RECALL. IN ADDITION, 1997-2000 MODEL YEAR VEHICLES THAT HAVE HAD A SUSPECT REPLACEMENT CLOCKSPRING INSTALLED, ACCORDING TO WARRANTY RECORDS, HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THIS RECALL.
Risk. WHEN THIS OCCURS, THE MATERIAL COULD INTERFERE WITH THE CLOCKSPRING RIBBON AND CAUSE AN OPEN CIRCUIT. THE DRIVER AIR BAG SYSTEM WILL BECOME DISABLED, AND THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP WILL ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CLOCKSPRING ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 18, 2001. ALSO SOME 1997-200 MODEL YEAR VEHICLES THAT, ACCORDING TO WARRANTY RECORDS, HAVE HAD A SUSPECT REPLACEMENT CLOCKSPRING INSTALLED, WILL ALSO BE INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings00V198000
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS. SOME VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH INADEQUATE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE REAR AXLE VENT HOSE AND THE BRAKE HOSE.
Risk. A PUNCTURE IN THE REAR BRAKE HOSE WILL RESULT IN A LOSS OF BRAKING FORCE AT THE REAR WHEELS.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR BRAKE HOSE FOR EVIDENCE OF WEAR. WORN BRAKE HOSES WILL BE REPLACED. THE REAR VENT HOSE WILL BE SHORTENED BY 3 INCHES AND A CLIP WILL BE INSTALLED TO ASSURE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE AXLE VENT LINE AND BRAKE HOSE IS MAINTAINED.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings00V193000
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS BUILT WITH 2.5L ENGINES. SOME VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH INADEQUATE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE LEFT FRONT BRAKE TUBE AND THE POWER STEERING HOSE.
Risk. A PUNCTURE OF THE LEFT FRONT BRAKE TUBE CAN RESULT IN A LOSS OF BRAKING FORCE AT THE FRONT WHEELS, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE TUBE AND POWER STEERING HOSE FOR WEAR. IF WEAR IS EVIDENT, THE BRAKE TUBE AND/OR POWER STEERING HOSE WILL BE REPLACED. A POWER STEERING STANDOFF BRACKET WILL BE INSTALLED ON ALL VEHICLES TO ENSURE THAT ADEQUATE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE BRAKE TUBE AND POWER STEERING HOSE IS MAINTAINED.
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH BOLTS THAT WERE NOT PROPERLY HARDENED. THE BOLTS WERE USED TO ATTACH THE CAB AND THE CORE SUPPORT TO THE FRAME.
Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN ALLOW THE CAB TO SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE BOLTS WITH PROPERLY HARDENED BOLTS.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip › Control Unit/Module97V170000
Filed Oct 7, 19977,500 vehiclesChrysler Corporation
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS (2 WHEEL DRIVE ONLY). THE FRONT BRAKE HOSES OR ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) SENSOR WIRE MAY BE ABRADED AT THE FRONT WHEELS BY CONTACT WITH A FRONT WHEELHOUSE SPLASH SHIELD.
Risk. PROLONGED BRAKE HOSE CONTACT CAN CAUSE A PARTIAL LOSS OF THE BRAKING SYSTEM. PROLONGED ABS SENSOR WIRE CONTACT CAN CAUSE A LOSS OF ABS FUNCTION.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL TRIM THE FRONT WHEELHOUSE SPLASH SHIELDS AND THE BRAKE HOSES AND ABS SENSOR WIRES WILL BE INSPECTED. IF EVIDENCE OF ABRASION IS FOUND ON ANY HOSE OR ABS WIRE, THEY WILL BE REPLACED.
All 12 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 1998 Dakota.
Opened Nov 19, 2003Closed Feb 11, 2005Led to recall 04V596000suspension
Daimlerchrysler corporation (dcc) is recalling the target population of approximately 600,000 my 2000 through 2003 durango and dakota vehicles with four-wheel drive to replace the front suspension upper ball joints with redesigned parts that do not have the joint integrity concerns and have substantially improved joint retention capacity (NHTSA recall no. 04v-596).though dcc does not admit to a safety-defect in the subject components, odi believes that the facts in this investigation show otherwise.because of the low rates of separation incidents in the remaining subject vehicles, a …
Technical service bulletins
108 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 1998 Dakota. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
engine 25electrical system 14equipment 12body and frame 12transmission 11visibility 9suspension 9airbags 3
SUBJECT ON THE FRONT WHEEL BEARING GREASE IS EVIDENT ON THE BEARING SEAL AREA. *TT
Showing the newest 6 of 9 bulletins about the suspension, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Service Brakes, HydraulicCrash4 injured
Filed Oct 10, 20235,000 milesSC
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.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 26, 2022GA
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.
Tires › Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire
Filed Jul 27, 2022CA
52019555 For Dodge Dakota Pickup Spare Tire Hoist Wheel Carrier Winch Hanger. Defective Spare Tire Hoist Wheel Carrier Winch Hanger The Spare Tire Hoist Wheel Carrier Winch Hanger contains soft rubber part which disintegrates easily with the elements (rain, cold, dirt, wind, etc.). This allows friction between the metal carrier mechanism and the steel wire that holds the tire. The friction eventually “cuts” the wire which holds the 50 lbs+ spare tire setting it free and dropping from under the truck and onto the road while traveling (moving). Issue The "DEFECTIVE" Replacement part (Spare Tire Hoist Wheel Carrier Winch Hanger continues to be sold in the market with NO Modification. The part should be recalled and corrected to prevent an accident. Car models impacted: Dodge Dakota, Ram, Durango, etc. Experience I was traveling about 40 MPH when the spare tire fell off from under the truck due to this defective part. I saw the tire (via rear view mirror) bounce off about 10 feet in the air and roll down the road at a fast rate of speed until it hit a curve and then a tree. With luck there was no one behind me or pedestrians around. This could have caused a fatal injury if the tire had hit a car behind me as it could have hit the windshield due to the high bounce rate and speed. It would have knocked down and injured a cyclist or motorcycle. It could have even hit and injured a pedestrian!. Thank God none of this happen. Request Please consider recalling this part and modifying i
Electrical System
Filed May 23, 2022210,000 milesSC
The contact owns a 1998 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was restarted and operated as designed. During the failure, there were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. Additionally, while depressing the brake pedal a clicking noise was present and the vehicle would not immediately stop. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 210,000.
Engine
Filed Feb 25, 2019133,000 milesTN
ENGINE MYSTERIOUSLY DIES FOR NO APPARENT REASON. IT MAY HAPPEN AT IDLE ALL THE WAY TO AND INCLUDING HIGHWAY SPEEDS. DRY WEATHER OR WET WEATHER. COLD WEATHER OR HOT WEATHER. COLD ENGINE OR WARM ENGINE. NO PATTERN DETECTED. IT DOESN'T SPLUTTER -- IT JUST DIES AS IF THE IGNITION KEY HAS BEEN TURNED OFF, AND IT THROWS NO CODE.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Aug 16, 2018119,974 milesCA
MY TRUCK HAS A BAD PCM I HAVE IT REBUILT 3 TIMES AND THE SAME PROBLEM WILL START ONCE THEN WILL NOT START PUT A PCM IN FROM A 8CYL RUNS ALL DAY NOT WELL BECAUSE ITS FROM 8CYL EVERYTHING HAS BEEN REPLACED AND STILL WILL NOT START I HAVE SEEN A LOT OF THIS SAME THING ON LINE THIS IS MY FIRST DODGE ND IT WILL BE MY LAST AND ALL OF THIS IS FROM THE DODGE DEALER
Service Brakes
Filed Aug 11, 2018162,000 milesCA
I FOUND A LIST OF RECALLS ON PEP BOYS WEBSITE
Engine
Filed Jul 30, 2018114,000 milesOK
THE EMINE WILL DIE AMYTIME! GOING AROUND CORMERS LOR ON EXPRESSWAY SITTING IN DRIVEWAY IDLING. MY FAMILY HAS HAD THIS VEHICLE SINE 1999. THIS JUST STARTED 6 MONTHS AGO. UP UNTIL THEN IT NEVER HAPPENED. REPLACED SEVERAL SENSORS (TPS,IAC,MAP,COOLANT TEMP AND ALSO COMPUTER)SO FAR NOTHING FIXES IT. I KNOW DODGE KNOWS ABOUT THIS AND SO DO YOU!!! SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE THERE ARE TOO MANY DAKOTA/DURANGOS ON THE ROAD I AM SURPRISED NO ONE HAS DIED OR AT VERY LEAST BEEN HURT BADLY. I KNOW IT GOES ON IN EARLIER DAKOTAS AND LATER OF BOTH NOT SURE IF IT EVER WAS FIXED SINCE OLD BODYSTYLE ENDED IN 2004. HAPPWNED FIRST TIME ABOUT FEB.1,2018. AFRAID TO DRIVE IT FOR FEAR OF DYING OR BADLY HURT BECAUSE IT DIES ANYWHERE ANYTIME INCLUDING RUSH HOUR TRFFIC IN TULSA OK
Exterior Lighting
Filed Feb 26, 2018214,674 milesIL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLAMPS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRING IN THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 214,674.
Service Brakes
Filed Dec 8, 2017100,000 milesID
THIS CAR HAS BEEN A SAFETY NIGHTMARE. FROM STEEL BRAKE LINES RUSTING THROUGH (AND THE VEHICLE LOSING IT BRAKES), TO UPPER BALL JOINTS ALMOST SEPARATING TO STEERING WHEEL DRIVE SHAFTS WHERE THE U-JOINTS ALMOST SEPARATED. THESE ARE NOT ITEMS THAT SHOULD FAIL LIKE THIS. I SPENT PART OF MY CAREER LOOKING AFTER GLOBAL PRODUCT LIABILITY FOR CUMMINS ENGINE AND I AM STUNNED AT THE POOR QUALITY CHRYSLER HAS USED IN CRITICAL COMPONENTS.
Electrical System
Filed Feb 1, 2017170,000 milesFL
THE TRUCK HAS A ELECTRICAL ISSUE THE LIGHTS GO OFF AND ON OUT OF NO WHERE I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD IN VERY DARK TWO LANE ROAD AND LIGHTS GO OFF. THANK GOD NOBODY TRIED PASSING IN ONCOMING TRAFFIC PR WE WOULD BE DEAD I REPLACED LIGHT SWITCH A FEW MONTHS AGO AND IT WAS FINE UNTIL RECENTLY STARTED DOING SAME THING. *TR
Service Brakes
Filed Sep 28, 201696,000 milesNC
WHILE DRIVING A COMBINE WAS APPROACHING IN ON COMING LANE TAKING UP PART OF MY LANE, APPLIED BRAKES AND PEDAL HIT THE FLOOR (NO BRAKES). I HAD TO GO OFF ROAD TO AVOID ACCIDENT. UPON INSPECTION FOUND BRAKE LINES RUSTED THROUGH. REPAIRED AND WHILE BLEEDING LINES HAD ANOTHER RUSTED AREA RUPTURE DUE TO RUST ( 4 AREAS SO FAR). FEARFUL TO DRIVE UNTIL ALL LINES REPLACED......BUT TOO COSTLY!
Electrical System
Filed Jun 30, 2016CA
FOR DODGE CARS AROUND 98 OR ONES THAT HAVE THE AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCKS, THEY STOP WORKING. IT SOUNDS LIKE THEY WANT TO ACTUATE THE LOCK BUT IT WON'T LOCK OR UNLOCK. ALL OTHER FUNCTION REMAINS IN THE DOORS OPENING AND CLOSING. UPON MY QUEST OF TRYING TO FUX THE PROBLEM ON BOTH DOORS, I TOOK APART THE ELECTRONIC MOTOR HOUSING WHERE THE GEARS ARE. THERE IS A LITTLE BLUE PIECE UNDER ALL THE GEARS THAT HAS BROKEN AND APPEARS TO BE BROKEN FROM THE PRESSURE OF THE FRICTION SPRING BEHIND IT. THINKING THIS WAS THE PROBLEM WITH THE OTHER ONE, I TORE IT APART AND WAS THE SAME THING. THE TWO PARTS HAD BROKEN IN THE EXACT SAME SPOT. I HAVE A FEELING THIS IS DUE TO PRODUCT DEFECT AND NOT JUSE IN MY CASE.
Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Sep 10, 2014100,000 milesMA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. WHILE DRIVING 45-50 MPH, THE FRAME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. UPDATED 10/24/2014*LJ UPDATED 04/20/2015 *JS
Suspension
Filed Aug 22, 201410,000 milesTN
CANT GET INFO...HOW TOO MAKE ANY ONE FIX RECALLED PARTS. *TR
Service Brakes
Filed Nov 14, 201395,000 milesTN
BRAKES FAILED DUE TO COMPLETE RUST THROUGH OF LINES. HAVE HAD TO SUBSEQUENTLY REPLACE OTHER LINES AND HOSES DUE TO THEIR DEFECTIVE QUALITY. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Sep 20, 2013170,000 milesMS
HEAD LIGHTS FLICKER AND TURN OFF INTERMITTENTLY WHETHER DRIVING OR AT A STAND STILL. THIS HAS OCCURRED SINCE THIS VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED AND IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS AND THE DODGE DURANGO. HAVE BEEN STOPPED TWICE BY LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT. THE VEHICLE IS STOCK WITH NO AFTERMARKET ADDITIONS. *TR
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 23, 2012128,000 milesVA
THE SPARE TIRE HOIST / CARRIER CABLE BROKE, CAUSING THE FULL SIZE SPARE TIRE TO DROP TO THE ROAD. FORTUNATELY, IT HAPPENED AS I PULLED INTO MY DRIVEWAY. THIS COULD HAVE EASILY BEEN A SEVERE ACCIDENT ON THE INTERSTATE. *TR
Service BrakesCrash
Filed Jun 1, 201279,000 milesNY
APPROACHING STOP LIGHT WHEN HYDRAULIC BRAKE LINES SUDDENLY AND COMPLETELY RUPTURED CAUSING A CONDITION OF NO BRAKES AND IMPACT WITH VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Jan 10, 2012150,000 milesOH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AT ENGINE STARTUP, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 160,000. UPDATED 02/01/12 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE AIR BAG LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY ILLUMINATED. THE INTERMITTENT BEHAVIOR WOULD OCCUR AT IDLE, WHEN COLD, HOT, ALL SPEEDS AND WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS FIRST STARTED. THE CONSUMER STATED A RECALL WAS ISSUED. HOWEVER, CHRYSLER DENIED A RECALL EXISTED. THE CONSUMER PAID $1,243 FOR THE REPAIR, WHICH INCLUDED A DEFECTIVE CLOCK SPRING ASSEMBLY AS NOTED IN THE RECALL. UPDATED 02/10/12
Steering
Filed Aug 4, 2011144,000 milesOH
LOWER STEERING SHAFT U JOINTS ARE UNPROTECTED AND RUSTED OUT CAUSING STICKY STEERING AND DIFFICULTY CONTROLLING THE VEHICLE IN A TURN. *TR
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed May 9, 201180,000 milesVA
1998 DAKOTA BRAKE LINE (STEEL) RUSTED THROUGH AND RUPTURED RESULTING IN CATASTROPHIC BRAKE FAILURE (RIGHT FRONT). THE DEALER BLAMES THE FAILURE ON ROAD CONDITIONS IN WESTERN VIRGINIA (SALT). THE TRUCK HAS ONLY 80000 MILES. *TR
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 19, 2011114,000 milesCA
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO SUGGESTED THAT THE AIR IDLE CONTROL SOLENOID BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE IDLE CONTROL SOLENOID BUT THAT DID NOT REMEDY THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING AT 50 MPH. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHO WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND THE DEALER NEEDED TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED ONLINE THAT THE ECM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED BUT THE DEALER DID NOT PERFORMED A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
Steering
Filed Mar 9, 201165,000 milesMI
STEERING SHAFT ON OUR DODGE DAKOTA WENT BAD.....GOING TO FIX IT BUT HOW MANY ARE ON THE ROAD WITH THE SAME PROBLEM AND THE FIX COSTS A SMALL FORTUNE. *TR
Service Brakes, HydraulicCrash
Filed Nov 22, 201058,000 milesNC
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER WAS TRAVELING 32 MPH WHEN HE ATTEMPTED TO STOP BUT THE BRAKES FAILED; AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE REAR ENDED THE VEHICLE IN FRONT. THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED THE BRAKE FAILURE SEVERAL TIMES. THE LOCAL REPAIR SHOP REPLACED THE CALIPERS AND BRAKE PADS FIVE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE REPAIR SHOP AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE ABS COULD BE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AGAIN. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 58,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 58,882.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Jul 12, 2010135,000 milesNY
THE MASTER CYLINDER BRAKE LINE ON MY 1998 DODGE DAKOTA TRUCK FAILED COMPLETELY AND SUDDENLY UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS (LIGHT BRAKING). UPON INSPECTION, ALL FRONT BRAKE LINES FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE DISTRIBUTION JUNCTION AND FROM THE DISTRIBUTION JUNCTION TO THE FRONT BRAKES (LEFT AND RIGHT) WERE HEAVILY CORRODED. LAST WINTER, THE BRAKE LINE LEADING FROM THE DISTRIBUTION JUNCTION TO THE REAR BRAKES FAILED UNDER SIMILAR CIRCUMSTANCES, HOWEVER; SOME BRAKING ABILITY REMAINED. THESE TWO FAILURES OVER A RELATIVELY SHORT TIME-FRAME LEAD ME TO BELIEVE IT MAY BE A MANUFACTURING DEFECT WITH ALL METAL BRAKE LINES. *TR
Seats
Filed Mar 13, 201075,000 milesCA
1998 DODGE DAKOTA DRIVERS POWER SEAT MOVEMENT WHEN BRAKING. SEAT ABRUPTLY MOVES BACK AND FORTH ON THE TRACK WHEN APPLYING BRAKES. VERY DANGEROUS AND SCARY SITUATION. *TR
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Mar 5, 201058,000 milesVA
SERVICE BRAKE HYDRAULIC LINES RUPTURED TWICE. ONCE AT 55,622 MILES ON AUGUST 13, 2007. THIS OCCURRED IN MY DRIVEWAY, WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED, ABOUT MID WAY BETWEEN THE FRONT AND REAR OF THE TRUCK ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. THE DEALER REPLACED 7 BRAKE LINES AND THE 2 REAR WHEEL CYLINDERS BECAUSE THE BLEEDER SCREWS WOULD NOT OPEN. TODAY, MARCH 5, 2010 AT STILL LESS THAN 60,000 MILES THE FRONT BRAKE LINES RUPTURED NEAR THE RADIATOR WHERE THEY CROSS BETWEEN THE DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS SIDE OF THE TRUCK. THIS OCCURRED ON A MAIN HIGHWAY WHILE BRAKING FOR A RED LIGHT. BOTH TIMES THE TUBING (METAL PIPING) CATASTROPHICALLY FAILED WITH NO PREVIOUS WARNING SIGNS SUCH AS SLOW LEAKAGE, LOW FLUID LEVEL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR, ETC. *TR
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Dec 12, 200992,357 milesIL
BRAKE LINE RUSTED THROUGH. *TR
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 27, 200990,000 milesWA
WARM WEATHER CAUSES 98 DODGE DAKOTA 3.9 ENGINE TO STALL AT ANY SPEED, ANYTIME. ENGINE COMPLETELY DIES AND TAKES 20 TO 30 MIN FOR ENGINE TO COOL WHILE OFF. THEN ABLE TO RESTART, BUT PROBLEM PERSISTS WITHIN 5 TO 15 MINUTES AFTER COOLING. CONSEQUENCES ARE I HAVE PAID TO HAVE PCM REPLACED, AS WELL AS FUEL PUMP. COULD CAUSE DEATH ON FREEWAY WHEN EVERYTHING DIES AT 70 MPH. ALMOST CAUSED WRECK TODAY. NO KNOWN FIX, HAVE SPOKE WITH CHRYSLER AND DEALERSHIP ON MANY OCCASIONS WITH NO ANSWER. *TR
Steering
Filed Jun 21, 2009100,000 milesOH
I OWN A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA PICKUP TRUCK I HAVE BEEN EXPERIENCING A LOOSENESS IN THE STEERING. THE STEERING WAS LOOKED AT BY A MECHANIC WHO SHOWED ME THAT MY INTERMEDIATE STEERING LINKAGE WAS FAILING AND COULD COME APART, CAUSING A COMPLETE LOSS OF STEERING. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM IN DAKOTAS AND DURANGOS. I CHECKED WITH THE DEALER SERVICE DEPT. AND WAS TOLD THAT IT HAPPENED SO OFTEN THAT THEY COULDN'T KEEP THE PART IN STOCK. SALVAGE YARDS DON'T EVEN LIKE TO SELL THIS PART USED BECAUSE THEY FAIL. I CHECKED WITH CHRYSLER/DODGE AND THERE IS NO RECALL. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS DEFECT THAT COULD CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. DODGE DOESN'T SEEM TO BE DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT. I'VE READ STORIES ON THE NET FROM OTHERS WITH THIS PROBLEM. *TR THANK YOU
Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Jan 30, 2009134,000 milesOR
ME AND A FRIEND WERE IN A CAR ACCIDENT .WHEN WE LOST CONTROL OF MY 1998 DODGE DAKOTA AND HIT THE SIDE OF A BUILDING AT 40-45 MPH WHEN WE HIT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELTS DID NOT LOCK UP LIKE THEY WERE SUPPOSED TO IN RESULT WE BOUNCED OR FACES AND HEADS OFF OF THE STEERING WHEEL AND DASH BOARD AND NOW HAVING HEAD NECK AND BACK PROBLEMS. *TR
Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System › Heater Core
Filed Jan 26, 200989,000 milesCA
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. WHEN THE CONTACT ACTIVATED THE HEATER, HE SMELLED ANTIFREEZE. HE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND COULD NOT FIND ANY LEAKS. APPROXIMATELY ONE MONTH LATER, THE OVERFLOW FOR THE ANTIFREEZE WAS EMPTY; HOWEVER, ANTIFREEZE WAS STILL PRESENT IN THE RADIATOR. THE CONTACT PERFORMS HIS OWN REPAIR WORK AND STATED THAT THE HEATER CORES WERE DEFECTIVE. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 104,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000. UPDATED 2/23/09 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE HEATER CORE WAS LEAKING INTO THE HEATER BOX, WHEN THE HEATER WAS ON. UPDATED 02/26/09. *JB
Steering
Filed Nov 13, 200880,000 milesNY
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE FELT A LOT OF PLAY IN HIS STEERING WHEEL AND IT WOULD NOT LOCK IN PLACE WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF. HE ALSO HEARD A KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A LEFT OR RIGHT TURN. THE NOISE COULD ALSO BE HEARD WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL WAS MOVED BACK AND FORTH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED A NEW STEERING COLUMN/ARMATURE DUE TO THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE LESS THAN 80,000.
Structure
Filed Jul 28, 200865,000 milesCT
THE PAINT IS COMING OFF OF MY TRUCK. I HAVE SEEN QUITE A FEW TRUCKS ON THE ROAD WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. A REPAIR SHOP NEAR MY HOUSE SAYS HE HAS SEEN THIS OFTEN, ALSO. HE SAYS THE PRIMER USED IS PROBABLY THE CAUSE. *TR
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Jul 10, 200889,249 milesOH
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE BRAKE PEDAL EXTENDED TO THE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE COASTED ACROSS THE PARKING LOT BEFORE THE CONTACT COULD APPLY THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC AND THEY STATED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MECHANIC REPLACED AT LEAST THREE LINES AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT OTHERS MAY NEED TO BE REPLACED AT A LATER DATE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 89,249. UPDATED 09/15/08 *BF UPDATE 09/24/08. *JB
Air Bags
Filed Mar 28, 2008135,900 milesMI
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO START THE VEHICLE AND THE AIR BAG SENSOR ACTIVATED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD HAVE TO BE BROUGHT IN TO BE PLACED ON A DIAGNOSTIC COMPUTER TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN, ENGINE SIZE, AND NUMBER OF CYLINDERS WERE UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 136,069 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,900.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Dec 28, 200773,000 milesGA
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. WHILE DECELERATING FROM 40 MPH IN THE RAIN, THE VEHICLE SKIDDED APPROXIMATELY 50-60 FEET. THE CONTACT REMOVED HIS FOOT FROM THE BRAKE PEDAL AND AFTER REAPPLYING IT, THE BRAKES WORKED CORRECTLY WITHOUT SKIDDING. HIS WIFE ALSO STATED THAT THE SAME FAILURE OCCURRED WHILE SHE WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE IN RAINY WEATHER. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 74,858 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 73,000. UPDATED 01/17/08 *BF UPDATED 01/17/08 *TR
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Filed Dec 5, 200790,000 milesOH
MY TIRES HAVE BEEN WEARING ON THE OUTSIDE FOR OVER A YEAR NOW, I HAD THE TRUCK LOOKED AT AND ALL BALL JOINT UPPERS AND LOWERS ARE BAD. THIS TRUCK ONLY HAS 90,000 MILES AND HAS BEEN DRIVEN TO AND FROM WORK FOR THE LAST 5 1/2 YEARS THAT I HAVE OWNED IT. THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE IS READY TO GIVE WAY. *TR
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Filed Nov 20, 200782,000 milesMD
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. THE BALL JOINTS HAVE COMPLETELY WORN OUT AND ALSO HAS A VERY NOISY LIFTER IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE DRIFTS IN AND OUT OF LANES AT ANY SPEED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS NOTICED WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH. THE CONTACT HAS NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. HE WAS INFORMED OF A RECALL ON THE PREVIOUS YEAR'S MODEL, BUT HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE RECALL NUMBER WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 93,500 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 82,000. UPDATED 03/14/08. *LJ THE SHIFTER DIDN OT STAY IN PARK
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Filed Aug 29, 2007107,000 milesOH
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. WHILE DECELERATING AT 3 MPH THE BRAKES FAILED. THE BRAKE LINE WAS COMPLETELY COVERED WITH RUST AND CORRODED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE RUST WAS A NATURAL PHENOMENON AND THEY ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIRS. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 107,000. UPDATED 12/12/2007 *BF UPDATED 12/12/07 *TR
Steering › Linkages
Filed Feb 28, 200763,734 milesVA
I AM THE OWNER OF A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA. WHEN I BROUGHT IN THIS VEHICLE FOR THE MANDATORY SAFETY INSPECTION IN 2006 I WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE MANIFOLD BOLTS HAD BROKEN AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED FOR THE VEHICLE TO PASS THE SAFETY INSPECTION. WITHOUT REPLACING THE BOLTS IT WOULD BE UNSAFE TO DRIVE. COST TO ME WAS $561.18. I HAD THE REQUIRED SAFETY WORK COMPLETED. THIS YEAR I BROUGHT THE SAME VEHICLE IN FOR THE REQUIRED SAFETY INSPECTION AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE BALL JOINTS WERE WARN AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED OR THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT PASS THE SAFETY INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE HAS 63,736 MILES ON IT. I TALKED WITH SEVERAL REPAIR SHOPS AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT BALL JOINTS SHOULD BE WARN OUT AT THIS LOW MILEAGE. I ALSO WENT TO THE CONSUMERS AFFAIRS COMMISSION WEB SITE AND THERE WAS NUMEROUS ARTICLES REGARDING THE PROBLEMS WITH THE DODGE DAKOTAS SUSPENSION AND STEERING ASSEMBLIES. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT OR DAMAGE BUT THERE SEEMS TO BE DEFECTS WITH THESE PARTS. ANY HELP WILL BE APPRECIATED. *NM
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Jan 17, 2007131,000 milesMD
TL* - THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING HIS 1998 DODGE DAKOTA, AT A SPEED OF 25 MPH IN DRY ROAD CONDITIONS, WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE PEDAL GAVE NO RESISTANCE, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO TAKE LONGER THAN USUAL TO COME TO A STOP. IN ORDER TO AVOID A COLLISION CONTACT HAD TO STEER THE VEHICLE ONTO THE GRASS MEDIAN. THE CONTACT CAN PROVIDE PICTURES IF NEEDED. *JB
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Upper Ball Joint
Filed Jan 16, 200775,000 milesCO
I WAS ADVISED TODAY THAT MY 1998 DAKOTA IS PLAGUED WITH THE SAME ISSUE THAT HAS BEEN AROUND FOR QUITE A WHILE. THE UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS ARE GARBAGE AT ABOUT 75,000. FORTUNATELY I DROVE MY WIFE'S CAR BY A STROKE OF LUCK AND THEY GAVE ME A LOT OF NOISE. SO I CAUGHT IT BEFORE A WHEEL FELL OFF. DODGE SHOULD BE RECALLING OR AT LEAST REPLACING FREE OF CHARGE ALL BALL JOINTS THAT FAILED. NOT JUST THE 2000-2003 MODEL NUMBERS.*JB
Suspension › Front › Control Arm
Filed Jan 10, 2007106,657 milesCA
TL* - THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE DAKOTA, WHOSE LEFT LOWER CONTROL ARM ON THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE BROKE OFF DUE TO DEFECTIVE WELDING. THE CONTACT'S DEALER ADVISED HIM THAT THE VEHICLE WAS BEYOND THE WARRANTY PERIOD AND NOT REPAIRABLE. PER THE CONTACT, THE LOWER SUSPENSION BOLTS FELL OFF THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH. THERE WAS NO COLLISION AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE. *AK UPDATED 2/2/2007 - *NM
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Filed Jun 20, 200690,000 milesIL
AROUND 60,000 MILES I WAS LEFT STRANDED AFTER THE FUEL PUMP FAILED. THE REPAIR COST OVER 700 DOLLARS PLUS THE COST OF THE TOW. AT 90,000 MILE THE FUEL PUMP FAILED AGAIN. THIS TIME THE TRUCK QUIT IN THE MIDDLE OF A MAJOR INTERSECTION UP TRAFFIC AND PUTTING MY LIFE AT RISK. THIS TIME THE REPAIR COST 777.00 DOLLARS PLUS THE COST OF THE TOW. I DON'T FEEL THAT A FUEL PUMP SHOULD FAIL SO OFTEN. ESPECIALLY A SUCH GREAT COST FOR REPAIR. *NM
Structure
Filed Jun 8, 2006AL
OUR TRUCK'S PAINT IS FLAKING. WE WANT DAIMLER CHRYSLER TO RE-PAINT OUR TRUCK. WE FOUND OUT FROM OUR INSURANCE THAT THIS IS A MANUFACTURER ISSUE AND SCREWUP. OUR ROOF AND HOOD ARE FLAKING AND IF NOT TAKEN CARE OF SOON IT IS GOING TO RUST. WE HAVE NOTICED THAT OTHER TRUCKS IN OUR AREA THAT IS IN THE SAME YEAR MODEL RANGE IS DOING THE SAME AS OURS WITH THE PAINT. WHAT IS THE DEAL? *NM
Suspension › Front
Filed Jun 7, 200662,000 milesFL
BALL JOINTS SEPERATED...COSTING ME OVER $1000 IN REPAIRS...AND NOW THEY HAVE FAILED AGAIN....ALSO CONTROL ARM BUSHING IS FAILING. *JB
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Filed May 13, 200658,500 milesTX
UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINT FAILURES @ 58,500 MILES. *JB
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 17, 2006106,000 milesTN
CLEAR COAT ON PAINT IS FLAKING OFF OF TRUCK ON THE HOOD, TOP OF CAB, TOP OF TAILGATE AND BED OF TRUCK. THIS HAS BEEN EXPLAINED TO ME THAT THE RESULT OF THIS IS BECAUSE DODGE DID NOT ALLOW THE PAINT TO DRY BEFORE CONTINUING ASSEMBLY. *NM
Complaints 1-50 of 545, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the Dakota years to avoid: owners filed 545 complaints, 2.6 times as many as a typical Dakota year. The most common complaint is about the suspension (37%).
What is the most common problem with the 1998 Dodge Dakota?
The suspension: 200 of the 545 complaints (37%) are about it. Owners most often say it knocks, grinds or clunks (4%) and vibrates or shakes (3%). The typical report comes at 62,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 1998 Dodge Dakota have?
12 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 11, 2009. The largest, 00V198000, covered 437,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 1998 Dodge Dakota problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 69,000 miles. For the suspension the midpoint is 62,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 1998 Dodge Dakota?
Yes, once. EA03023 ("UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION") was opened Nov 19, 2003 and closed Feb 11, 2005.
Are there service bulletins for the 1998 Dodge Dakota?
The manufacturer filed 108 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (25), the electrical system (14) and the body and frame (12). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
6 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: May 11, 2009. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.