1995 Dodge Dakota SLT review from North America
"Powerful, but not reliable"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Air Conditioning went out at 45,000 miles. Dealer fixed for $350.00, went out again 4 months later. Dealer ran pressure test, found no leaks, wanted to re charge system for $190.00. Just rolled windows down in warm weather.
Water pump went at 53,00/ twice dealer gave me wrong pump, went to NAPA got right part for $90. Dealer wanted $190.
Radiator went at 57,000/ $160 to replace.
The catalytic converter ceramic fell apart at 69,000, dealer said out of warranty, went to a muffler shop, they said could not touch it because CA. smog restrictions cover converters till 90000 miles. Dealer still would not fix it. I went to a junk yard and got a used one and installed myself. Cost $25.00.
The transmission lines went at 69,000 also. Cost to replace was $95.00. Dealer wanted $200.00.
Driver door hinges broke at 72,000 miles. Dealer said it is common on Jeep Cherokees, but not Dakotas. Cost to repair hinges, $350.00 at local body shop.
General comments?
The power of the vehicle was great, but reliability of the truck was sub-par. My prior car was much more reliable.
Recommended reviews
  | Love it!! |
| It's been a great truck for me up to this point, and the truck still is great, just Chrysler isn't |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.9 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 4/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 41200 miles |
| Most recent distance | 137000 miles |
| Previous car | Geo Metro |
| Date of Entry | 6th May, 2003 |