1989 DODGE DAKOTA PROBLEMS

Common Complaints and Reliability

• 1. steering/rack and pinion:

  • 96V094000, the vehicle was serviced for a recall on the steering and the rack and pinion broke 4 days later.
    
  • After having the recall repair work done for the rack and pinion mount, the vehicle is now having a problem with the power steering. Recall #96V094000.
    
  • Rack and pinion failure.
    
  • Rack and pinion steering failed causing accident. Recall work done on the system prior to incident, however did not fix the problem.
    

• 2. Brake system:

  • ABS brakes, while driving vehicle front left side brake line line blew out. Had to change right side also. Once brake line has blown abs becomes uneffective.
    
  • ABS, brake failure in the rear, replace master cylinder and in for repair, wheel cylinder and other broken.
    
  • Antilock brakes failed 3 times, once causing accident.
    
  • Brake calipers failed.
    
  • Brake drums failed.
    
  • Brake pads failed.
    
  • Brake rotors failed.
    
  • Brake rotors replaced.
    
  • Rear brake cylinders replaced.
    
  • Rear brakes failure, there very little braking from the rear brakes, equipped with abs brakes.
    

• 3. Transmission:

  • Clutch grinds when shifting gears.
    
  • Clutch problems.
    
  • Manual shift 5 speed transmission, ignition was on, and vehicle stalled when turning ignition, pumped the starter, cranked too far, vehicle took off in reverse, occupancy was out of vehicle and arm got caught in the steering wheel and knocked down driver.
    
  • Transmission problems.
    

• 4. Miscellaneous:

  • EGR valve failed.
    
  • Engine compartment fire, electrical system caused fire on vehicle.
    
  • Flywheel problems.
    
  • Oil pan leaks.
    
  • Starter failed.
    
  • Spare tire cable broke while driving, tire dropped onto hwy.
    
  • Spare wheel fell from carrier when winch cable parted due to wear/corrosion.
    

• 5. General issues:

  • Paint bubbling and peeling off.
    
  • Recall related, talked to dealership, they indicated parts are not available.