2005 Dodge Dakota Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2005 Dodge Dakota, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Airbags14325.2%
- Brakes8314.6%
- Powertrain (other)6511.5%
- Suspension519.0%
- Steering478.3%
- Interior & seats346.0%
- Electrical335.8%
- Engine234.1%
- Transmission152.6%
- Driver assistance101.8%
- Fuel system101.8%
- Body & structure91.6%
- Seat belts81.4%
- Tires & wheels81.4%
- Other / unspecified61.1%
- Visibility50.9%
- Exterior lighting50.9%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
Seat belt light turn on and off since I own the truck.
GOT TRUCK SMOGGED 4/13/2021 AND WAS TOLD OF AN OUTSTANDING RECALL FOR AIRBAG. THIS RECALL WAS FIXED ON 11/13/2015. ATTACHED ARE COPIES OF NOTICE OF RECALL AFTER GETTING TRUCK SMOGGED AND PAGES 1 AND 2 OF INVOICE SHOWING REPAIR ON 11/13/2015. HOW DO WE GET THIS UPDATED IN THE SYSTEM SO IT WILL NOT SHOW UP AGAIN WHEN WE GET TRUCK SMOGGED NEXT TIME? Consumer stated vehicle has been repaired and no longer needs to be contacted.*JB
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2005 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle vibrated, pulled to the right, with a burning odor coming into the cabin of the vehicle. The contact inspected the vehicle and diagnosed that the caliper had failed. The calipers had been replaced six times; however, the failure persisted and became more frequent. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 25,000.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING INTO THE DRIVEWAY WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTING TO APPLY THE BRAKES WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL FLOORED FAILING TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE EMERGENCY BRAKES AND LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THEY NOTICED A BURNING ODOR. THE CONTACT SHORTLY NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD A FIRE NEAR THE ENGINE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THEY HAD THEIR WIFE CONTACT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND NO MEDICAL ASSISTANCE NEEDED. VEHICLE TOWED. THE CONTACT CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER TO INFORM THEM THAT THE FIRE REPORT REPORTED THAT THE VEHICLE'S MASTER CYLINDER BRAKE FLUID LEAK CAUSED FIRE. THE VEHICLE DEEMED TOTALED. THE MANUFACTURER OPENED A CASE REGARDING THE MATTER. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 171,000.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
*Incomplete Recall Status* ***Defect in transfer case*** Complaint of Manufacturer Defect in 2005 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab 4x4 3.7l v6. While driving at a speed of 30mph on a smooth paved highway and selector switch turned to 2 wheel drive mode; out of nowhere, the transfer case tried to engage 4 High which resulted in SVC 4X4 warning lamp illumination and a loud grinding/stuttering sound from under carriage as well as halting me to 10 mph without any help from me. after pulling over on the roadside and putting truck in park and turning the engine off, i waited a couple of minutes and SVC 4X4 indicator and 4High dash light had gone. I restarted the truck only to find that the SVC 4X4 Warning lamp immediately returned and now the 4lo illuminated dash light is constantly showing and truck is still showing in 2 wheel drive with selector switch but 4x4 will not engage at all now. Took to a mechanic shop 1/2 mile down the road and had it read for any DTCs and inspected. Code came back as C1404. Transfer case still tries to engage as soon as truck door is opened and dome light comes on. SVC 4X4 warning indicator stays on the dash lit up and 4lo warning light flashes non stop. Manufacturers communication letter has been sent to dealerships for the proper installation steps of the transfer case on the model of my truck due to improper positioning. I have noticed no Recall but have found a Campaign ID listed for this issue. I've owned this truck for only DAYS now with the intention of presenting it to daughter for her 16th birthday next month and now there's a BIG concern here for safety and the fact that a recall hasn't been issued is crazy! ....it's completely absurd and should be escalated immediately until a consumer resolution is made. This truck is NOT safe at all with this defect by manufacturer transfer case! I am demanding that this faulty part be investigated and taken considerable responsibility for just for the amount of time allowed to pass!!
WHILE DRIVING ON I-635 NORTHBOUND AT AROUND 25 TO 30 MPH WITH 4X4 ACTIVATED ON A SINGLE LINE AVAILABLE SINCE IT WAS CLEARED AND SALTED. WITHOUT WARNING I WAS THE ONLY VEHICLE THAT VEERED RIGHT HARD AND I LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE ALMOST CRASHING ONTO THE METAL BEAM ALONG THE HIGHWAY. I WENT PAST THE SHOULDER AND DOWN TO THE BOTTOM OF HILL, BUT THANKFULLY VEHICLE DIDN'T TURN OFF. I HAD TO SWITCH OFF 4X4 AND BACK ON AND WAS ABLE TO CLIMB UP DESPITE THE SNOW BACK TO THE HIGHWAY WITH NO FURTHER REOCCURRENCE. UNFORTUNATELY WHEN THIS HAPPENED MY PASSENGER SEAT WENT FORWARD AND IS NOW STUCK AND I BROKE LEVER TRYING TO BRING IT BACK FROM FRONT RECLINING. BECAUSE OF THE ROUGH TERRAIN THE REAR QUARTER PANELS WHERE THE WAS SOME RUST HAVE CRACKED
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
*Incomplete Recall Status* ***Defect in transfer case*** Complaint of Manufacturer Defect in 2005 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab 4x4 3.7l v6. While driving at a speed of 30mph on a smooth paved highway and selector switch turned to 2 wheel drive mode; out of nowhere, the transfer case tried to engage 4 High which resulted in SVC 4X4 warning lamp illumination and a loud grinding/stuttering sound from under carriage as well as halting me to 10 mph without any help from me. after pulling over on the roadside and putting truck in park and turning the engine off, i waited a couple of minutes and SVC 4X4 indicator and 4High dash light had gone. I restarted the truck only to find that the SVC 4X4 Warning lamp immediately returned and now the 4lo illuminated dash light is constantly showing and truck is still showing in 2 wheel drive with selector switch but 4x4 will not engage at all now. Took to a mechanic shop 1/2 mile down the road and had it read for any DTCs and inspected. Code came back as C1404. Transfer case still tries to engage as soon as truck door is opened and dome light comes on. SVC 4X4 warning indicator stays on the dash lit up and 4lo warning light flashes non stop. Manufacturers communication letter has been sent to dealerships for the proper installation steps of the transfer case on the model of my truck due to improper positioning. I have noticed no Recall but have found a Campaign ID listed for this issue. I've owned this truck for only DAYS now with the intention of presenting it to daughter for her 16th birthday next month and now there's a BIG concern here for safety and the fact that a recall hasn't been issued is crazy! ....it's completely absurd and should be escalated immediately until a consumer resolution is made. This truck is NOT safe at all with this defect by manufacturer transfer case! I am demanding that this faulty part be investigated and taken considerable responsibility for just for the amount of time allowed to pass!!
I TOOK MY 2005 DAKOTA TO REPAIR SHOP BECAUSE OF CLUNKING NOISE ON FRONT DRIVERS SIDE. NOISE WAS HEARD WHEN DRIVING OR ROCKING THE TRUCK WHEN IT WAS PARKED. REPAIR SHOP SAID LOWER BALL JOINT COMPLETELY FAILED AND WAS RIDING ON LOWER CONTROL ARM INSTEAD OF SUPPORTED BY BALL JOINT. UPPER BALL JOINT WAS ALSO BAD. PASSENGER SIDE UPPER BALL JOINT WORN OUT AND LOWER BALL JOINT BOOT WAS CRACKED. ALL TIE ROD ENDS ALSO NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, AN ODOR OF POWER STEERING FLUID EMITTED THROUGH THE AIR VENTS. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NOTICED POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKING FROM THE BEARING OF THE POWER STEERING PUMP. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT WAS A CERTIFIED MECHANIC AND DIAGNOSED THAT THE SEAL OF THE BEARING AND POWER STEERING PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 195,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
HELLO, I RECENTLY PURCHASED A ONE OWNER 2005 DODGE DAKOTA, WHICH HAS LESS THAN 35,000 MILES AND HAS BEEN VERY WELL MAINTAINED. THE CAR FAX CAME BACK CLEAN FOR ACCIDENTS ETC, BUT I HAVE FOUND, THAT BOTH THE FRONT AND REAR SECTIONS OF THE CHASSIS HAD TO BE REPLACED ON DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDES AND MOST OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION HAD TO BE REPLACED TOO. DUE TO EXCESSIVE DEEP RUST. TO THE POINT OF THE NUT HOLDING THE LEFT OUTER TIE ROD END DISINTEGRATED. THE STRAIGHT SIDE RAILS OF THE CHASSIS ARE EXCESSIVELY DEEP RUSTED. AS WELL AS THE OIL PAN AND REAR AXLE HOUSING (WHICH ARE ORIGINAL). THE DEALERSHIP HAD TO CUT OFF THE FRONT SUSPENSION COMPONENTS AND REPLACE ALL BUSHINGS AND MOST OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION COMPONENTS. DUE TO EXCESSIVE RUST AND WEAR. MY TRUCK HAS BARELY BEEN ON THE ROAD FOR ITS YEAR AND HAS HAD MINIMAL EXPOSURE TO ROAD CHEMICALS SUCH AS SALT ETC. THESE COMPONENTS ROTTING AWAY TO THIS EXTENT WITH SUCH LOW MILEAGE REGARDLESS OF AGE INDICATES THE USE OF POOR QUALITY MATERIALS BEING USED DURING ASSEMBLY AND POSING A POTENTIAL SAFETY ISSUE TO CONSUMERS. I OPENED A CASE# 57271603 WITH CHRYSLER AND THE AGENT TOLD, THAT EVEN IF THE CASE WAS MOVED UP FOR REVIEW . IT WOULD BE SENT BACK DUE TO THE AGE OF THE TRUCK . WHICH I DISAGREE WITH, AS THE FRONT SUSPENSION COMPONENTS SHOULD NOT HAVE ROTTED AND DISINTEGRATED SO BADLY AND THE CHASSIS SHOULD NOT HAVE HAD TO HAVE EXTENSIVE REPAIRS IN LESS THAN 35,000 MILES. I WOULD THINK, THAT THIS POSES A POTENTIAL SAFETY ISSUE FOR ANYONE BUYING TRUCKS USING THE SAME CHASSIS AND COMPONENTS FROM THE SAME VENDOR, IF THEY ARE NOT MANUFACTURED AT A DODGE PLANT. ULTIMATELY IT SHOULD BE THE CAR MANUFACTURER'S RESPONSIBILITY, THAT THE PARTS THEY ARE USING ARE QUALITY AND WILL NOT POSE POTENTIAL SAFETY RISK TO CONSUMERS . PLEASE LET ME KNOW, IF FURTHER INFORMATION ETC. IS NEEDED. THANK YOU
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2005 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated that the vehicle had been shipped to them. While the vehicle was parked, the contact inspected the vehicle and observed that the frame was severely corroded. The contact also noted that the frames of all the vehicle doors were corroded as well. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was not formally diagnosed; however, the mechanic informed the contact that the frame was severely corroded, the vehicle was structurally compromised, and they were unsure whether the vehicle could be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 81,892.
WHILE DRIVING ON I-635 NORTHBOUND AT AROUND 25 TO 30 MPH WITH 4X4 ACTIVATED ON A SINGLE LINE AVAILABLE SINCE IT WAS CLEARED AND SALTED. WITHOUT WARNING I WAS THE ONLY VEHICLE THAT VEERED RIGHT HARD AND I LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE ALMOST CRASHING ONTO THE METAL BEAM ALONG THE HIGHWAY. I WENT PAST THE SHOULDER AND DOWN TO THE BOTTOM OF HILL, BUT THANKFULLY VEHICLE DIDN'T TURN OFF. I HAD TO SWITCH OFF 4X4 AND BACK ON AND WAS ABLE TO CLIMB UP DESPITE THE SNOW BACK TO THE HIGHWAY WITH NO FURTHER REOCCURRENCE. UNFORTUNATELY WHEN THIS HAPPENED MY PASSENGER SEAT WENT FORWARD AND IS NOW STUCK AND I BROKE LEVER TRYING TO BRING IT BACK FROM FRONT RECLINING. BECAUSE OF THE ROUGH TERRAIN THE REAR QUARTER PANELS WHERE THE WAS SOME RUST HAVE CRACKED
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
*Incomplete Recall Status* ***Defect in transfer case*** Complaint of Manufacturer Defect in 2005 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab 4x4 3.7l v6. While driving at a speed of 30mph on a smooth paved highway and selector switch turned to 2 wheel drive mode; out of nowhere, the transfer case tried to engage 4 High which resulted in SVC 4X4 warning lamp illumination and a loud grinding/stuttering sound from under carriage as well as halting me to 10 mph without any help from me. after pulling over on the roadside and putting truck in park and turning the engine off, i waited a couple of minutes and SVC 4X4 indicator and 4High dash light had gone. I restarted the truck only to find that the SVC 4X4 Warning lamp immediately returned and now the 4lo illuminated dash light is constantly showing and truck is still showing in 2 wheel drive with selector switch but 4x4 will not engage at all now. Took to a mechanic shop 1/2 mile down the road and had it read for any DTCs and inspected. Code came back as C1404. Transfer case still tries to engage as soon as truck door is opened and dome light comes on. SVC 4X4 warning indicator stays on the dash lit up and 4lo warning light flashes non stop. Manufacturers communication letter has been sent to dealerships for the proper installation steps of the transfer case on the model of my truck due to improper positioning. I have noticed no Recall but have found a Campaign ID listed for this issue. I've owned this truck for only DAYS now with the intention of presenting it to daughter for her 16th birthday next month and now there's a BIG concern here for safety and the fact that a recall hasn't been issued is crazy! ....it's completely absurd and should be escalated immediately until a consumer resolution is made. This truck is NOT safe at all with this defect by manufacturer transfer case! I am demanding that this faulty part be investigated and taken considerable responsibility for just for the amount of time allowed to pass!!
VEHICLE GOES IN AND OUT OF 4 WHEEL DRIVE AND 4 WHEEL LO ON IT'S OWN, WHETHER THE VEHICLE IS RUNNING OR NOT AND MOVING OR NOT. THERE HAVE BEEN TIMES WHEN I OPEN THE DOOR, NOT UNLOCK, JUST OPEN, AND YOU CAN HEAR THE TRANSFER CASE SHIFTING . SOMETIME "SERVICE 4 WHEEL DRIVE" LIGHT COMES ON, OTHER TIMES JUST 4 WHEEL INDICATOR AND OTHER TIMES NO LIGHT AT ALL. THOUGH IT IS A 2005, I ONLY HAVE 80K ON IT. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS NOW
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING INTO THE DRIVEWAY WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTING TO APPLY THE BRAKES WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL FLOORED FAILING TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE EMERGENCY BRAKES AND LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THEY NOTICED A BURNING ODOR. THE CONTACT SHORTLY NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD A FIRE NEAR THE ENGINE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THEY HAD THEIR WIFE CONTACT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND NO MEDICAL ASSISTANCE NEEDED. VEHICLE TOWED. THE CONTACT CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER TO INFORM THEM THAT THE FIRE REPORT REPORTED THAT THE VEHICLE'S MASTER CYLINDER BRAKE FLUID LEAK CAUSED FIRE. THE VEHICLE DEEMED TOTALED. THE MANUFACTURER OPENED A CASE REGARDING THE MATTER. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 171,000.
TICKING NOISE COMING FROM EXHAUST MANIFOLDS! EXHAUST MANIFOLD BOLTS & STUDS ARE BREAKING PREMATURELY ALLOWING EXHAUST GASES TO ENTER PASSENGER COMPARTMENT! NEW BETTER GRADE EXHAUST MANIFOLD BOLTS & STUDS PLUS GASKETS NEED TO BE INSTALLED ON BOTH LEFT & RIGHT HAND SIDE MANIFOLDS WITH A RECALL TO CORRECTLY REPAIR THIS DANGEROUS FACTORY INSTALLED DEFECT!!
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT PARKED THE VEHICLE AND REMOVED THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. THE GEAR THEN SHIFTED TO REVERSE INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO START THE ENGINE UNTIL THE GEAR WAS SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC BUT THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE TRANSMISSION AND BRACKETS WERE REPLACED, HOWEVER THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY SERVICED FOR A MANUFACTURER'S TRANSMISSION RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. UPDATED 09/10/15*LJ
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD BOOMING SOUND WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. ONE WEEK PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE TRANSMISSION HAD BEEN SERVICED. THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL WAS ALSO REPLACED FOR THE THIRD TIME THE WEEK BEFORE THE TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS AT THE DEALER AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 75,000.
Heating & air conditioning
Reports naming the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system.
From owner reports, verbatim
I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR THE T80 HEATED SEATS IN MY 2005 DODGE DAKOTA I CALLED THE CHRYSLER REPRESENTATIVE SCHEDULE A REPAIR SERVICE WITH PERKINS DODGE COLORADO SPRINGS HE ORDERED THE SEATS I TOLD THE REPRESENTATIVE THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE HAD A BURN HOLE IN IT AND HAD CAUGHT FIRE WHEN THE NEW SEATS ARRIVED AT PERKINS DODGE I TOOK MY TRUCK IN TO BE REPAIRED THEY TOLD ME THEY WILL NOT DO THE PASSENGER SEAT BECAUSE OF THE BURN HOLE HAS CUT OUT PIECES. I TOLD THEM I HAD TO REMOVE SOME OF THE BURNT MATERIAL TO PUT A SEAT COVER ON AND STILL UTILIZE THE SEAT. SEATS ARE STILL UNDER RECALL THEY ORDERED THEM KNOWING THAT THERE WAS A BURN HOLE I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY THEY WILL NOT PROCEED WITH THE REPAIR THE INFORMATION FOR THE CASE NUMBER AND REPRESENTATIVE I TALKED TO IS HERE.... MY NAME IS [XXX] FROM THE FCA CASE MANAGEMENT DIVISION, I HAVE BEEN ASSIGNED AS YOUR CASE MANAGER. HERE IS SOME INFORMATION THAT WILL BE HELPFUL FOR YOU TO HAVE: YOUR CASE NUMBER IS [XXX] THE CHRYSLER CASE MANAGEMENT TELEPHONE NUMBER IS: [XXX] MY DIRECT EXTENSION: [XXX] MY WORK HOURS ARE: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME (MONDAY-FRIDAY). I WILL CONTACT YOU WITHIN ONE BUSINESS DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT BY TELEPHONE TO REVIEW YOUR CASE WITH YOU. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR - (RECALL RELATED INCIDENT) TS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SEAT OVERHEATED AND CAUGHT FIRE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V820000 (SEATS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. HALEY CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM AIRPORT (5400 S LABURNUM AVE, RICHMOND, VA 23231, (804) 663-5337) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 110,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
DODGE DURANGO 2005 TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED AT 100,000. ONCE THAT WAS REPLACED 4WD SERVICE LIGHT APPEARED AND SWITCHING SOUNDS UNDER THE TRUCK STARTED. THE TRUCK LOCKED INTO PLACE AND COULD NOT MOVE. I WENT INTO 4WD AUTOMATICALLY AND WHEN I WENT TO SEACH PROBLEMS ONLINE I CAME ACROSS HUNDREDS OF THE SAME COMPLAINTS. PLEASE CHECK OUT HTTPS://WWW.CARGURUS.COM/CARS/DISCUSSION-T4148_DS482593 I AM SPEECHLESS AND VERY AFRAID OF DRIVING THIS CAR.
ON OCTOBER 5, 2016 AT APPROXIMATELY 12:45 P.M., L ENGAGED THE CRUISE CONTROL AT A SPEED OF 55 MILES PER HOUR. WHEN I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL THE TRUCK ACCELERATED TO A SPEED OF 60 MILES AND HIGHER. I TESTED THE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM TWICE MORE AND IT DID THE SAME THING. THE VEHICLE NEVER SLOWED DOWN. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD. I WAS ON DAM NECK ROAD WHERE THE SPEED LIMIT IS 55 MILES PER HOUR. THIS IS A CITY STREET. AFTER THIS OCCURRED MY ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, WHICH CLEARLY INDICATES A MECHANICAL PROBLEM. I THINK THERE MAY BE OTHER VEHICLES THAT COULD HAVE THIS SAME MALFUNCTION AND CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT OR DEATH.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
TAKATA AIR BAG. I PURCHASED A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA IN AUGUST 2018. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP IN OCTOBER WHEN I FOUND OUT ABOUT THE RECALL. DEALERSHIP REPLACED DRIVERS SIDE BUT NOT PASSENGER SIDE.I WAS TOLD AND SHOWN PHOTOS OF AN EMPTY SPACE.THERE WAS NO AIRBAG OR WIRING.I STILL HAVE NO PSA. ALSO WHEN I TEST DROVE THIS VEHICLE IT HAD NO HEADLIGHTS.WHEN I PURCHASED IT I WAS TOLD THEY WERE FIXED.I DO NOT HAVE HIGH BEAMS STILL. THERE ARE ALSO PROBLEMS WITH THE EMISSIONS ON THIS TRUCK.I REPLACED THE EVAP PUMP BUT STILL IS NOT CORRECT. CAN SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME WHAT I CAN DO ABOUT THESE SAFETY ISSUES? THANK YOU.
MINE IS THE 2005 DODGE DAKOTA EXTRA CAB AND THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD BOLTS BREAKING/SHEARING AT THE ENGINE BLOCK. THIS CAN CAUSE (AND IT HAS) A TICKING SOUND THAT GETS LOUDER AS YOU ACCELERATE. ONCE YOU HEAR THE TICKING SOUND, BOTH SIDES OF THE ENGINE ARE AFFECTED. THIS RESULTS IN POOR MILEAGE, OVERHEATING, ENGINE WILL STALL AT LOW IDLE, ULTIMATELY ALLOWING EXHAUST FUMES TO ENTER THE CABIN, POTENTIALLU, POISONING THE OCCUPANTS WITH CARBON MONOXIDE FUMES. I TOOK THIS VEHICLE TO THE DEALER TO HAVE THEN REPLACED. THE 1ST DEALER SAID IT WASN'T REPAIRABLE. 2ND ONE SAID, 1400 $ PER SIDE TO EXTRACT BROKEN BOLTS AT THE REAR OF THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD ON BOTH SIDES OF MY 4.7 . 3RD REPAIR SHOP TOLD ME THIS VERY COMMON ON THE 4.7 AND HE DOES ABOUT 10 A WEEK. HIS PRICE WAS 350 $ PER SIZE PLUS GASKET AND DOUGHNUT GASKET AT THE COLLECTOR. HEY! IF THIS IS SUCH A COMMON PROBLEM WHY ARE WE DODGE OWNERS BEING HOSTAGE BY HAVING TO MAKE THIS REPAIR OURSELVES AND PAY FOR IT? IT IS AN EMMISIONS ENGINEERING UNDERDESIGN THAT NEEDS TO BE FIXED AND A RECALL NEEDS TO BE ISSUED. IT IS A DESIGN DEFECT. PLEASE INVESTIGATE AND GET THIS SITUATION CORRECTED BEFORE SOME INNOCENT CHILD DIES FROM CARBON MONOXIDE ENTERING THE CABIN. NOT TO MENTION OTHER POTENTIAL HAZARDS THAT MAY OCCUR BECAUSE THE DRIVER IS OVERWHELMED BY CARBON MONOXIDE AND RUNS DOWN 78 PEOPLE BECAUSE THEY PASSED OUT FROM THE CARBON MONOIXIDE FILLED CABIN WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE. DO. SOMETHING. TIME IS RUNNING OUT. BEFORE SOMEBODY IS KILLED.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2005 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated that the vehicle had been shipped to them. While the vehicle was parked, the contact inspected the vehicle and observed that the frame was severely corroded. The contact also noted that the frames of all the vehicle doors were corroded as well. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was not formally diagnosed; however, the mechanic informed the contact that the frame was severely corroded, the vehicle was structurally compromised, and they were unsure whether the vehicle could be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 81,892.
WHILE DRIVING ON I-635 NORTHBOUND AT AROUND 25 TO 30 MPH WITH 4X4 ACTIVATED ON A SINGLE LINE AVAILABLE SINCE IT WAS CLEARED AND SALTED. WITHOUT WARNING I WAS THE ONLY VEHICLE THAT VEERED RIGHT HARD AND I LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE ALMOST CRASHING ONTO THE METAL BEAM ALONG THE HIGHWAY. I WENT PAST THE SHOULDER AND DOWN TO THE BOTTOM OF HILL, BUT THANKFULLY VEHICLE DIDN'T TURN OFF. I HAD TO SWITCH OFF 4X4 AND BACK ON AND WAS ABLE TO CLIMB UP DESPITE THE SNOW BACK TO THE HIGHWAY WITH NO FURTHER REOCCURRENCE. UNFORTUNATELY WHEN THIS HAPPENED MY PASSENGER SEAT WENT FORWARD AND IS NOW STUCK AND I BROKE LEVER TRYING TO BRING IT BACK FROM FRONT RECLINING. BECAUSE OF THE ROUGH TERRAIN THE REAR QUARTER PANELS WHERE THE WAS SOME RUST HAVE CRACKED
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
TAKATA RECALL. ON 2/4/2016 I TOOK MY TRUCK TO COURTESY CHRYSLER/DODGE/RAM LOCATED AT 9207 ADAMO DRIVE EAST IN TAMPA,FL. THE AIRBAG INFLATOR WAS REPLACED. AS SOON AS I DROVE OFF OF THE DEALER'S LOT I NOTICED THAT THE SEATBELT WARNING LIGHT AND ALARM WOULD NOT TURN OFF. I IMMEDIATELY RETURNED TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER SAID THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOT RESPONSIBLE, ALTHOUGH I EXPLAINED THAT THE PROBLEM DID NOT EXIST BEFORE MY VISIT TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO ORDER A NEW SEAT BELT BUCKLE AT A COST OF $125.00 + LABOR. I REFUSED TO ORDER AND PAY FOR A PART TO FIX A REPAIR THAT DID NOT EXIST PRIOR TO MY VISIT. I WAS MAKING AN 11 HOUR DRIVE THE NEXT DAY TO START A NEW JOB AND I NEEDED TO HAVE THE PROBLEM RESOLVED. THE PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER WAS VERY UNPROFESSIONAL. I LEFT THE DEALERSHIP. THE SEATBELT WARNING LIGHT AND ALARM STILL CONTINUE TO GO OFF AND ON ALTHOUGH I ALWAYS WEAR MY SEATBELT. NOTE THAT I CALLED THE FIAT CHRYSLER AUTOMOBILES (FCA) RECALL ASSISTANCE CENTER ON 2/4/2016 AFTER I RETURNED FROM THE DEALER. I DESCRIBED THE SEATBELT PROBLEM BUT FCA WAS JUST AS UNCARING AS THE DEALER.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE IGNITION WAS TURNED TO THE ON POSITION AND THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT WAS LATCHED, THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRING UNDER THE SEAT WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 7,400.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FOUR WHEEL DRIVE FUNCTION WAS ACTIVATING AND DEACTIVATING WITHOUT WARNING WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO TWO DIFFERENT INDEPENDENT MECHANICS WHO WERE NOT ABLE TO REPLICATE AND DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TO BE TAKEN TO A DEALER TO INSPECT AND DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V313000 (AIR BAGS) AND WAS WAITING FOR THE DEALER TO SCHEDULE THE REPAIR. THEY INDICATED THAT THEY WOULD SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WHEN THE PART WAS AVAILABLE, BUT DID NOT FOLLOW UP FOR WEEKS. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE WHEN THE RECALL REPAIR WOULD BE COMPLETED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
IN JUNE 2009 I PURCHASED 4 NEW TIRES FROM POWER DODGE OF VALENCIA, CA. AT THE TIME I NEEDED TIRES AND I WAS TOLD THE TIRES THEY WERE SELLING WERE NEW. ON OCTOBER 18, 2010, I HAD A BLOW OUT OF ONE OF THE TIRES ON THE FREEWAY. THE TIRE HAD APPROXIMATELY 8,000 MILES ON IT. I WENT TO GET IT REPLACED AT A TIRE SHOP AND WAS ADVISED THE TIRE WAS OVER 3 YEARS OLD, I QUESTIONED THE FACT I JUST PURCHASED THE TIRE ON 6-09 HOWEVER, I WAS SHOWN THE TIRE WAS MANUFACTURED 6-07. I WENT TO THE DEALER AND THEY ADVISED ME THAT FOR SAY THE TIRE WAS NEW WHEN I PURCHASED IT AND THEY HAVE BEEN TOLD BY CHRYSLER THAT TIRES HAVE A SHELF LIFE OF 5 YEARS? NEEDLESS TO SAY THEY DID NOT OFFER A REMEDY OTHER THAN BUY ANOTHER. IS THERE NOT A LAW, RULE OR SOMETHING THAT SAYS A MANUFACTURE CANNOT SELL A TIRE THAT HAS BEEN ON THE SHELF FOR OVER A YEAR? THE TIRES BEING SOLD THAT HAVE BEEN ON THE SHELF FOR 2,3,4, AND EVEN 5 YEARS ARE UNSAFE. IT IS EVIDENT THAT THESE DEALERS DO NOT HAVE ETHICS OR CARE ABOUT THEIR CUSTOMERS. *TR
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SWITCHED INTO 4 WHEEL DRIVE WITHOUT WARNING. WHEN ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A LEFT OR RIGHT TURN, THE WHEELS LOCKED AND PREVENTED THE VEHICLE FROM MAKING A COMPLETE TURN. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHO WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS THAT RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 104,093.
ISSUE I AM FIGHTING NOW. AT SPEEDS BETWEEN 55 - 75 INTERMITTENTLY THE TRUCK WILL BEGIN TO VIBRATE. IF YOU TAKE YOUR FOOT OFF THE GAS IT GETS WORSE. IF YOU THEN APPLY THE BRAKES THE STEERING WHEEL BEGINS TO SHAKE ALMOST VIOLENTLY, AND THE BRAKE PEDAL PULSES. IF I SLOW DOWN TO ABOUT 30 MPH IT STOPS AND MAY HAPPEN AGAIN QUICKLY OR MAY NOT HAPPEN AGAIN FOR A WHILE. I HAVE REPLACED THE ROTORS AND CALIPERS AND TIE ROD ENDS AND GOTTEN AN ALIGNMENT. STILL THE ISSUE EXISTS. I HAVE NEW MICHELIN TIRES. I HAVE ALSO ALREADY HAD TO REPLACE LOWER BALL JOINTS AND FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS. I HAVE REPLACED THE ROTORS AND CALIPERS 3 TIMES ALREADY ON THIS TRUCK. IT HAS LESS THAN 13000 MILES ON IT. NO ONE SEEMS TO BE ABLE TO FIGURE OUT WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. I WILL NEVER, EVER BUY ANOTHER CHRYSLER / DODGE PRODUCT. THIS WAS MY FIRST AND WILL BE MY LAST.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED WORKING. SHAKING TURN SIGNAL EVENTUALLY CAUSED WIPERS TO START WORKING AGAIN. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD BECAME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE URETHANE HAD LOOSENED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE INCIDENT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000. UPDATED 2/26/14*CN THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THE WINDSHIELD WAS LOOSE ALL THE ACROSS THE TOP, DOWN BOTH SIDES. THE BOTTOM OF THE WINDSHIELD WAS LOOSE ABOUT 8 INCHES ON EACH SIDE. UPDATED 03/13/14
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
TAKATA AIR BAG. I PURCHASED A 2005 DODGE DAKOTA IN AUGUST 2018. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP IN OCTOBER WHEN I FOUND OUT ABOUT THE RECALL. DEALERSHIP REPLACED DRIVERS SIDE BUT NOT PASSENGER SIDE.I WAS TOLD AND SHOWN PHOTOS OF AN EMPTY SPACE.THERE WAS NO AIRBAG OR WIRING.I STILL HAVE NO PSA. ALSO WHEN I TEST DROVE THIS VEHICLE IT HAD NO HEADLIGHTS.WHEN I PURCHASED IT I WAS TOLD THEY WERE FIXED.I DO NOT HAVE HIGH BEAMS STILL. THERE ARE ALSO PROBLEMS WITH THE EMISSIONS ON THIS TRUCK.I REPLACED THE EVAP PUMP BUT STILL IS NOT CORRECT. CAN SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME WHAT I CAN DO ABOUT THESE SAFETY ISSUES? THANK YOU.
PASSENGER SEAT BELT OFF AND PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF WARNING LIGHTS LIGHT UP INTERMITTENTLY; EVEN WHEN NOTHING IS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. THE WARNING LIGHTS LIGHT UP FOR NO REASON. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .