2000 Dodge Dakota SLT quad cab review from North America
"A powerful truck (5.9L) with too many designer flaws"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Like many other buyers of the Dodge Dakota trucks, I have had problems with the front end and the braking system. At 50,000 miles, I have had my front rotors replaced and have repaired the front wheel assembly. Currently, my truck's rear rotors are being
re-surfaced. At 80,000 miles, my rear brakes still have 40% of the brake remaining. According to another reviewer, rotors should not wear before the pads. I also have contacted Chrysler regarding their front end issues and braking system problems. I was not satisfied with the explanation, believing the truth is a known design flaw in the braking system and front end assembly.
As I was writing this review, I received a phone call from my mechanic, who also stated that my master cylinder would also have to be replaced in addition to the wheel cylinders needing to be replaced.
I have replaced my rack and pinion front end assembly and at about 30,000 miles my computer control module was replaced.
General comments?
Unfortunately, the inadequate reliability and quality factor outweigh the overall performance of the excellent rinding truck.
The 360/5.9 engine is probably one of the best engines ever made, which is probably the reason Chrysler stopped making this engine.
The ride is very smooth, with the engine providing more than enough power to tow.
How unfortunate it is that Chrysler could not make this same truck with higher standards and better reliability.
Until then, I will be buying a Nissan Titan!!!
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | V8 5.9 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 4/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 8 miles |
| Most recent distance | 81560 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Dakota |
| Date of Entry | 14th July, 2004 |

