Faults:

Each power lock module failed, about 2 months apart.

Headlamps occasionally cut out, very briefly.

Engine computer failed.

General Comments:

The engine computer was replaced under warranty and I believe its failure may have been caused by an accessory I was using at the time (a power converter).

This is my third Dakota and I have had the highest faith in all of them.

It's quick, comfortable, attractive, and ready to work. It also does well off-road.

The engine and transmission are buttery smooth. The V8 is thirsty, but that is to be expected.

Faults:

I have had virtually no major problems with it. Mechanically nothing to speak of except oil changes and tire rotation. I had to have a minor spot re-done on the body because it got hit when I was not around.

General Comments:

-Very reliable and dependable.

-Amazing 4-wheel drive capabilities.

-Beautiful exterior and interior.

-"Mean" truck look for being mid-sized.

-Fun to drive and be in.

-Awesome factory Infinity sound system.

Faults:

Water pump went out less than 25,000 miles.

General Comments:

I've been pretty happy with it. The only thing I've had to replace is the battery. Lots of power, but a gas guzzler.

Faults:

Had to replace that Catalytic Converter.

General Comments:

This truck is a very strong running truck. It is fast and has been very reliable to me. It also handles better that most cars. The interior is very comfortable. It is also a very good looking truck. I also have a few modifications done to it. I love this truck.

Faults:

At 35,964 miles I had to have the transmission replaced.

I had to have the ball joints replaced at approximatly 37,000 miles.

General Comments:

This truck accelerates very well.

Handles corners more like a Camaro than a truck.

Long distance travel has been comfortable.

Faults:

Headlight/foglight switch failed after two years, replacement was covered under warranty.

Heavy duty battery died at 63,000 miles, but that is about the life span.

One front shock started leaking fluid after warranty expired, replaced all units with Edelbrocks.

General Comments:

The Dakota has been problem free with regular maintenance, most of which I can perform myself.

The sport suspension handles great, especially after installing Edelbrock shock absorbers. I bought this truck to tame my aggressive driving habits, but it didn't work!

The heavy duty service equipped 5.2 liter V-8 performance is beyond what I expected. The gas mileage is terrible, 10 mpg city and no better then 17 highway, but that's what I expected when I bought it. Fuel at the time in 1999 was $1.05. It failed one state emissions test, but new plugs and a full cleaning of the throttle-body passed it. Spark plug gap increases steadily so they get changed every 15,000 or so miles.

It's a V-8 4x4 that sees hard service in suburban N.Y.C. and mountain roads all over New England.

Faults:

Surface rust started in the corners of the windows, transmission needed to be repaired, the inside trim is falling apart, the motor has a slight knocking, it burns a lot of gas. but most of all, when it is cold weather the truck starts, but when I put it into gear the motor dies out. The starter has been replaced already.

General Comments:

I see this as a high dollar repair truck.