1998 Dodge Dakota SLT 4X2 3.9 L from North America

Summary:

Good looks, comfortable cab for 2 adults and 2 small children

Faults:

The driver's side rear axle had.025" of side play at 18,000 miles. This caused a squeaking noise when turning to the left. This was fixed under warranty.

The truck was taken to the dealer to investigate a loose front end at 30,000 miles. Shocks were checked, no problem was found. The problem continued. My mechanic found a worn-out upper ball joint at 40,000 miles. No after market replacements were available at that time. An assembly costing $180 was needed. This was taken to Dodge and they covered about 75% of the cost of parts.

I replaced the other lubricated for life ball joint at 48,000 miles. After market parts were available.

The driver side brake rotor has been turned 7 times. I now have a spare that I keep in rotation. At 70,000 miles, spin balancing of the tires on the truck revealed the front wheel to be out of round. The dealer had the truck and was supposed to have fixed the problem. It still exists. The dealer has now folded.

General Comments:

The 3.9 L with standard transmission provide all the power I need.

I still have the original clutch. I work construction. The miles are mostly interstate.

The Dakota is a good one with which to make a "fashion" statement.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 19th June, 2001

1998 Dodge Dakota SLT 5.2 from North America

Summary:

A great truck (not too big, not too small) that loves fuel

Faults:

Front drive axle cover leaking.

Power drivers seat moves forward when braking and slides backward when accelerating (dealer has since replaced the seat frame).

Truck pitches sideways when the rear end goes over a bump.

Transmission shifts rough.

General Comments:

Had minor problems, but taken care of by the warranty.

With air intake, headers, cat back exhaust and computer upgrades, this truck is a rocket even with 4 wheel drive.

Back seat tight for adults, OK for children.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 5th April, 2001

14th Nov 2002, 09:35

How can you say it's a great truck and then give it a "sad face"? Those problems on a vehicle that's only 4 years old doesn't sound too great to me! You must not have owned very reliable vehicles on the past.

7th Oct 2003, 22:10

I know just what you are talking about when you said the back wheels pitch over when they hit a bump. I was going 70 on the interstate one day, a lord I'm glad it wasn't wet, cause I would have been done for. It jerked the whole truck over. But being a good driver I had it all under control. Now I just go around that one bad bump...

28th Oct 2008, 20:40

I hate how people buy a 318 then complain about fuel economy... buy a 239 if you want economy.

1998 Dodge Dakota SLT 4x4 Club Cab 5.2L from North America

Summary:

Disatisfied - won't buy another Dodge product

Faults:

Replaced steering column and both inner tie rod links. Brake rotors are warped already. Won't start at times - has to be restarted up to 5 times before it can be driven.

General Comments:

Poor gas mileage - 13 miles per gallon.

Dealer service has been mediocre compared with the excellent service of our other vehicle - Honda Accord.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 23rd May, 2000

5th Mar 2004, 18:24

I have the same problems; poor gas mileage, front end parts being replaced, clicking sound in the motor, which the mechanics can't find. Will never buy another one.

31st Jan 2006, 20:58

I wouldn't complain about the gas mileage. What do you expect for a V8 4x4 Automatic? You have to remember, the 318 engine was designed in 1960s back when gas was cheap and there wasn't any emissions. I'm happy with the mileage I get (12.5mpg city) and just try towing a 6000 lb. boat with a V6 Toyota or Ford...