1999 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab SLT from North America
Summary:
Not worth one cent! Would not purchase another Dodge/Chrysler vehicle
Faults:
Air conditioner problems.
Excessive engine knock, clicking.
Surges in speed at or above 70 miles per hour.
Almost red-lines before shifting while accelerating.
Gasket replaced.
Dealership fried battery at 32000 miles.
Dealership fried wiring at 32000 miles.
Tires had to be replaced at 15,000 miles neither Dodge dealer nor Goodyear would prorate them.
General Comments:
Dakota has been in for same repairs since Fall of 1999. Engine sounds like it has loose parts, excessive clicking noises. Surges then loss of power while driving. Dealership most of the time says it cannot duplicate, funny it happens on my way to the dealer and on the way back, but not while it is in their shop. Had to keep the truck for several days, I was told they had to wait for Corporate to contact them with computer updates. Had problems just before warranty expired. Took truck in. Dealer replaced gasket parts as well as wiring and battery that they fried while doing repairs. 3 months later at 35000 miles I returned to the dealership with same problems, they could not duplicate. 36425 miles and the Dakota stalled at a red light. When started back up the Check engine light came on. Had to have it towed to service shop.
I cannot give any pluses about this vehicle. It has not been reliable and the dealership and Dodge headquarters have not helped to solve my problems.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 1st April, 2002
2nd Jun 2001, 00:29
About the tire tread life, I have a similar truck and have found that more expensive "performance" tires actually last nearly twice as long.