1998 Dodge Dakota SLT 4X2 review from North America
"Good looks, comfortable cab for 2 adults and 2 small children"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
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.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Great little truck - very reliable |
| 1997 - Dakota SLT Club Cab 4x4 3.9L V6 Magnum Excellent Truck! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.9 L Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 106000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda B2200 |
| Date of Entry | 19th June, 2001 |