Best and Worst Years for the Dodge Dakota

Jul 23, 2021

Dodge’s mid-size Dakota pickup spent nearly 25 years on the market before its 2011 demise. Here, we dive into each of the model’s three generations to pick the best and worst years for the Dodge Dakota.

2007 Dodge Dakota - Photo by Stellantis

At Vehicle History, the aim is to provide comprehensive, well-researched, and most importantly, unbiased information for car buyers. But it’s hard to keep bias completely out of the picture when it comes to the Dodge Dakota. This is a good-looking truck, and it drives like a Dodge muscle car. It’s hard not to gush.

But, not all Dodge Dakotas were created equal, some of them have some serious problems, and some have stood the test of time better than others. So if you’re already set on buying a Dakota, and you’re just not sure which model year to go with, we’re here to tell you what you need to know to make an informed purchase.

1987 Dodge Dakota - Photo by Stellantis

First-generation Dodge Dakota: 1987-1996

The first-generation Dakotas (1987–1996) are probably the coolest in terms of styling. In fact, it’s safe to say that they stand among the coolest-looking pickups ever made.

The 1989-1991 Sport convertibles in particular were really unique, offering an alternative to the Wrangler for fans of topless adventure vehicles. The limited-edition Li’l Red Express, available with wooden bed rails, brings to mind those Radio Flyer wagons we grew up with.

First-generation Dakotas are a lot of fun to drive with their rugged leaf-spring rear-end suspension, and the 1992 Dakota with the 230 horsepower 5.2L Magnum V8 engine is an off-road beast. If you’re a collector, this is probably the one you want.

That is… if you’re a collector.

If you want a reliable mid-size pickup, you probably don’t want to bother with anything over 20 years old, especially considering that first-gen. Dakotas had a serious problem with early transmission failure in the automatic models, which you’ll find mentioned all over online forums like DodgeDakota.net and Reddit.

Meaning that if you somehow manage to find one with under 100k miles on it, there’s still a good chance the thing will start shaking and rattling on you before long, and now you’ve got to find someone who can sell you a transmission for a 30-year-old pickup.

You’ll have fewer issues with a manual transmission than with an automatic, but even so, the maintenance on a truck that’s almost old enough to have grandkids makes it a less-than-ideal choice, so as cool as these first-gen Dakotas are, we can’t name any of them as the best on the market today.

1998 Dodge Dakota - Photo by Stellantis

Second-generation Dodge Dakota: 1997-2004

The second-generation Dakota was modeled after the Ram, which was intended to look more like a semi-truck than a farm pickup. The bulkier styling we saw in this era of pickups helped to define the look that’s still with us today in Rams, Silverados, and F-150s.

Second-generation powertrain options offered a whole spectrum of oomph, with a 2.5L straight-four being the weakest available engine, a 5.9L Magnum V8 being the strongest, and some solid 3.7L and 3.9L Magnum V6s right in the middle.

The second generation is where you’re going to start finding plenty of Dakotas in decent shape without too many miles on the odometer. Unfortunately, it’s also where you’re going to find some of the least reliable models Dodge ever cranked out.

In particular, the 1999-2003 automatics are notoriously flakey, owing to the Dodge 45RFE transmission. These transmissions were known to buckle under too much power, and that’s a serious problem when you’re driving a mid-size pickup with a V8 under the hood.

Take a look at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) page for the 2003 model alone, and you’ll find dozens of complaints relating to the powertrain and vehicle speed control.

The second generation also performed poorly in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) crash tests.

2007 Dodge Dakota - Photo by Stellantis

Third-generation Dodge Dakota: 2005-2011

The third generation offered only one option for manual transmission, a six-speed Getrag 238, and two options engine options, a 3.7L Magnum V6 cranking out 210 horsepower, and a 4.7L Magnum V8 cranking out 260.

By 2007, Dodge had removed the manual transmission option from the V8s. And guess what, the automatic transmissions in this generation are pretty lousy, too. For generation three, we’re talking about the notorious Ultradrive transmission that powered everything from Wranglers to Durangos for a three-decade reign.

The Ultradrive offered smooth, easy shifting, and it felt great to drive, but Dodge got a little too eager to rush it into production, and the consumer paid the price.

The issues with the Ultradrive date back to when the transmission was brand-new, over thirty years ago, but Dodge never quite got it figured out, finally retiring the transmission in 2019.

You should be seeing the pattern by now: if you’re driving a manual transmission, any given Dakota is about as reliable as its previous owner was.

With proper maintenance, there’s no reason a manual-transmission 1992, 2001, or 2005 Dakota can’t last for decades to come. But in an automatic, you’re always going to be feeling like you’re driving on borrowed time.

These are trucks for people who really like the feel of that clutch-and-shifter action. If you’ve gotta have an automatic, then you might want to consider a Ranger or a Tacoma.

The third-generation Dakota performed better than the second with the IIHS, but only moderately, scoring an overall evaluation of A for Average.

To take a look at the sales figures for the Dodge Dakota, you can see that the truck went out not with a bang, but with a whimper.

The Dakota was regularly selling over 100,000 units a year in the U.S. from 1992 to 2005, then after they dropped the manual V8s, those numbers plummeted to around fifty thousand units in 2007, half that in 2008, and barely over ten thousand units a year from 2009 to 2011.

A disappointing finish for one of the coolest and most iconic trucks of the 90s and early-00s.

2004 Dodge Dakota - Photo by Stellantis

What’s the Best Year for a Dodge Dakota?

The 2004 Dodge Dakota is the best in terms of performance and reliability, but only if you’re driving a manual.

The second-generation Dakotas outclass the third, due in large part to the wider range of powertrain and transmission options, and the fact that 2007-2011 Dakotas do not offer a manual V8 option.

The first-generation Dakotas win on sheer cool factor, but we’ve got to take reliability into account, too, and you’re just not likely to find a 1989 Sport convertible in near-mint condition, and you’re not likely to find a Li’l Red Express for sale in any condition.

The 2004 Dakota currently holds an owner’s review rating of 4.2 stars out of a possible five on Vehicle History, with 43% of 70 reviews giving the truck a perfect five-star rating.

Owners like that it’s surprisingly fuel-efficient for its age (estimated around 14/19 mpg city/highway depending on equipment), and they love that their trucks are still humming along smoothly after 100k, 200k, even 300k miles, according to Vehicle History verified owner Albert M., who adds that it “runs like a deer.”

All of this being said, any model year Dakota in decent condition without too many miles on the odometer should be a fine purchase, just as long as you stay away from the automatics, especially the 2005-2011s with Ultradrive.

Photos: Stellantis

Frequently Asked Questions

Apr 1, 2022

Is the Dodge Dakota reliable?

The Dodge Dakota ranks slightly below average when it comes to overall reliability. These are built to be small trucks and they are not quite as tough as their larger full-size truck brothers. They usually have smaller engines, smaller axles, and a less robust transmission which leads to them being more prone to problems.

If you want to help your Dakota last a long time the best thing you can do is get the regular services done on it and get an inspection at least once a year. A mechanic will be able to spot problems with your truck before they become larger and more serious issues that have to be addressed. Keeping up with this can improve reliability.

The Dakota is a decent option if you are looking for a small truck, but you should also check out the Ranger and Tacoma. These are generally rated higher than the Dakota and are built to last a bit longer.

Do Dodge Dakotas have transmission problems?

The Dodge Dakota with the 42RLE and 545RFE transmissions have been known to have numerous problems. The most common problem that is reported with the 42RLE is that the vehicle slips out of gear while driving and has hard shifts. Usually, this happens when the solenoid harness gets corroded and it reduces communication between the transmission control unit and the transmission. A replacement connector usually fixes the problem.

The 545RFE is known to have issues with delayed and hard shifts between third and fourth gear. This is usually a problem with one of the check balls that has failed in the transmission. You will need to disassemble the transmission and replace the component to get it working and shifting properly again between gears.

Dodge has generally been known to have transmission problems across their entire range of trucks and the Dakota is no exception. There are solutions to the problems out there, but be prepared to repair a transmission if you pick up a used Dakota.

Is the Dodge 3.7 a good engine?

The Dodge 3.7L V6 engine is considered to be a good engine that scores well on overall reliability and quality. The main downsides to the engine are that they are noisy and vibrate a lot, and they tend to not put out a lot of power for the amount of fuel that they consume. These issues do not affect the longevity of the engine though and they should still be able to last over 200,000 miles.

The Dodge 3.7L V6 was produced from 2002 through 2012 and had been used in many different Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep products over the years. This makes them easy and affordable to work on if there are any problems since there are plenty of spare parts and a lot of mechanics that know how to work on them.

The 3.7L V6 may not be the most powerful V6 on the market but it does tend to hold up well. The Dakota comes standard with a pretty solid engine but the real weak point is just the transmission.

Owner Reviews

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Fred Average on June 1, 2023

Dodge Dakota first,second generation trucks, absolutely wonderful

Contrary to what’s written here about Dakotas ,I’ve had numerous first and second generation Dodge Dakotas , the first one a stick V6, but moreover, it’s been the 318 and 360 V-8 , with automatic transmissions. And ….I’ve had absolutely NO automatic transmission issues, problems ,complaints, etc. Whatsoever ,and most of these trucks had well over 100,000 miles on them ,operating with the original virgin transmission , never opened up for repair or rebuild work. All they require is a proper servicing which I do to all vehicles every 20 to 25K miles=new fluid and filter. Regardless, if it’s a reusable filter, it gets thrown away. Pretty simple ,pretty inexpensive to do , as far as the rest of the truck = completely bulletproof, no issues. However, at 100,000 miles or more do you want However, at 100K or sooner depending on your “personal vehicle use case”, you want to start looking at the front end -control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends ,and related suspension parts. Otherwise, change ALL the fluids and filters every year,warm it up every morning ,open the hood,let it cool down properly when you come home , AKA- do t be cheap- DO WHAT THE SERVICE MANUAL(S) tell you! And it last half a million miles. I was worked for Mopar in parts and service for many years , so YE$, I’ve seen it all. Oh yes,Gen 3 Dakotas are moneypit junk! Neglect & Cheapskates kill vehicles!

Fred 🤠Average on June 1, 2023

Dakota Delights

RJF on April 5, 2023

Third little dodge.

First one was from before they said Dakota on 'em. RWD, 5 speed, 4 cyl, 2 door. Just a plain Jane transportation p/u. Got in a T/A, not my fault, ins paid, moved on. Fast forward about two decades. Ranger tranny blew up, wasn't worth fixin', needed alternate transportation quick & cheap. Only thing in my price range was a 2000 Dakota V6, RWD, quad cab with a slushbox and salvage title. Remembered my old one being reliable & figured the price was right, so I grabbed it. I immediately named it Bic. As in disposable. Uglier than a box of blobfish. 99 front end, sandblasted paint, cracked windshield... Ended up keepin' it for almost four years! Used about 1qt of oil between changes, changed out a pair of tie rod ends, flushed out the radiator, minor tune up & a few other little odds & ends... Had 248,000 miles on it when I found a 2000 SLT V6, RWD, 5 speed with just a bit over 90,000 on the clock. Sold the "Bic" for just a bit less than half what I paid for it! This one is much better lookin', don't squeak & rattle like a kiddie toy & I'm squeezin' over 19 mpg outta the NV3500 coffee grinder. Been pretty happy with all my little Dodge trucks. Don't drive it like you stole it, do the maintenance on time, don't try to tote tons at a time & they'll come thru for 'ya.

bigmike on April 16, 2023

2005 dodge dakota 3.7 v6 215k miles

Well from what you guys are saying this dodge truck is a pos,lemon,money pit... Etc.. I bought this pne used with 210 k miles on it... From a friends dad who had transmission rebuilt on it... And regular maintenance done.. I have the receipts.. It had been sitting in his driveway for a year, and been used for storing bags of garbage in the bed.. I bought it becuz he said it ran good but he got tired of putting $ into it .., only things i did to it, was getting a new battery to start it up.. And replace water pump with a better one (not the plastic original impeller one dodge used) i replaced it with upgraded (steel) impeller pump, with rubber-ring....took me a day to replace it myself.,,, like the previous post reviewers have said be pro-active on maintenance... Take care of your ride and it will return the favors...i am a firm believer in that belief... You guys/gals that just gas/go in your rigs,, complain when stuff breaks,,, need to figure it out.,., just sayin,,,

Motomech on August 30, 2023

2006 Dakota, best truck I've ever had!

And I've had quite a few. My first truck was a '63 Chevy w/ a 6 cyl. And three on the tree:) Bought a 2006 10 years ago, 4X4, h* engine, added a Superchips tuner, cold air and a Magaflow muffler (w/ resonator delete). That took the already strong 260 hp h* up close to 300, but best thing is the tuner really Bought a 06 4x4, 90k w/ the h* motor, added a superchips, cold air and magaflow, almost 300hp and the tuner improved the auto shifting. Now at 140K, I've done the usual stuff (some Dak weak points), Batt, struts, shocks and some frt.end suspension parts. The engine got a water pump @ 110K, that's it! Has never used any oil and comes out looking almost newl. The one down side is fuel mileage, 13 city/ 17 hiway on a good day. I'm going to look @ a '11,2WD w/ 40K to use as a driver while I restore the '06. Hoping for 20 hiway.

Stan Ross on October 28, 2022

2003 2 wheel drive 4 door

Just under 300.000 km I lovely Dodge Dakota 4.7 Magnum v8.ibought this used 1 owner in 2010.it had 100.000km on her In 2013 I put heavier shocks it rides excellent it maneuvers corners no dipping or swaying I replaced all all bearings and front end suspension stronger aftermarket parts .I changed the Transmission oli and rear end oil every 100.000km I travel to Mexico Palmsprings and vegas and Florida with no Mech issue since 2013 for 5 months a year I went through 2 sets of Michelin now I am trying a different set not Michelin that has a stifferside wall but same tire tread pattern Rated to last 80,000 miles approx.P.s I Love my Dakota the one had before was 1990 v6 I loved it to Isold it top buck in 2014 with 300.000 km with canopy no rust .I owned this one since 1995 I bought it with 90.000 km.i got my money's worth.

Jay on January 31, 2023

1996 Dakota sport V6 - Auto

My previous company bought it with around 100k on the odo for very little money. The tranny cracked a spider gear after I drove it for several years totally overloaded on a daily basis. They gave the truck to me for free because of the transmission issue. I replaced the transmission with a new one and it's been smooth sailing ever since. Just over 250K on the clock now and the driver door hinge is starting to wear out and my starter needs to be replaced. Minor maintenance issues. Great, very reliable little truck, I still drive it hundreds of miles confidently. Easy to maintain and work on too. If the tranny ever gives me trouble again, I will convert to a manual for the fun of it. I have several of them in this era and they are all similarly solid and high mileage.

Jason on May 15, 2022

2003 dodge Dakota slt 4.7l V8 Magnum

My 2003 dodge Dakota has 280,000 miles on it when I bought it for $1,300 it was a one owner truck who bought it new on 2003 it runs really good it starts up every day n runs n drives really good I would recommend anyone who is looking for a good midsized truck to get this one it is a good work truck n it is very fast with the 4.7l V8 Magnum it is by no means a slow truck it gets up n movies when I needit to. Idid some work on the motor Ibut in a cold air intake in it,a flow master muffler now it not only soundsgood but it gets up n movies fast it is by nomeans a supper fast truck but it is far from being slow itis a great truck if you are looking for a truck to take off roading everyoneshould think about gettingone.

Levi Nettleton on October 28, 2022

I've have 2 Dakota's, both great trucks

First, my 96 3.9L club cab, had the dark sparkly paint. She was only 2wd and still got me through everything. I cut and haul fire wood all winter, throught the snow, sticks, mud, where ever I needed to go she got me there, but then, that day came I left it idling for about 3hrs and it shut down on its own and now won't start back up, just cranks and cranks, only 180,000 miles on it. Now I have a 2002 sxt 4x4 club cab 5 speed with the NV3500 tranny. Bought with 204,000 and it has been a great truck so far the only problem Iwas driving down the road and the front diff just falls out from under it. Runs like a dime though.

David R on September 19, 2021

2005 Dakota not what some crack it up to be

I bought my 2005 Dakota SLT 4.7V8 with 43,000 miles. My first issues were at 50k and an odd vibration in the front end which sent me down a spiral. No matter who does the brakes, new parts and all, there is always the feel of pulsation like a warped rotor or the like. Every 20k is a new set of exhaust manifold gaskets. My maintenance is very regular at recommended (or more often if circumstances dicate) intervals. At 190k the transmission went. Recently at over 200k the PCM failed. I am not counting little maintenance items, ball joints, tune ups and the like in detail.

Ronald Mason on September 16, 2021

93 Dodge Dakota 3.9 V6, 5 speed

I love my little truck. I've had it for 15 years drive about an average of 70 miles per day it does great. It is the most dependable vehicle I have ever had. I put a new clutch, pressure plate and throw out bearing in it about 2 years ago. I drive this truck hard every day, I even race people from time to time. The 5.7 Chevy vortex can not hang with it. Like I said I love my little Dakota and I will not part with it. 😁

Sergio B on July 21, 2021

Reliability and performance of 2004 Dodge Dakota.

I am the second owner to my 2004 Dodge Dakota. I bought the truck in 2008 and in the ten years since I have had the truck I have not experienced any mechanical problems with the truck. The most I have had to do was change two spark plugs. I have 3” lift kit on my truck and it drives perfectly for me. For the price of my truck I have yet to experience another vehicle that has been the best bang for my buck.

Kristy on December 29, 2021

Absolutely best truck ever made

I've put 500,000 miles on it and I've never had to replace anything. Treat your vehicle right and it will return the favor. This truck has a solid gold engine. My truck washes dishes. It even tucks me in at night when I go to bed. I'd make love to my truck, but people would talk...My truck will go 300 miles an hour because I modified it's transmission. I enjoy magic boat rides in my truck.

John Shapley on July 4, 2021

1998 Dodge Dakota

I love my truck. It had the 2.5L engine with the AX-15 transmission. I get 25 mpg on the interstate and I have the 22 gallon fuel tank on mine which was optional. On a full tank I can get over 500 miles. I do preventive maintenance on my truck like everyone should, I use Shell or Exxon gas not that cheap fuel. I like the wide cab and the tight turning it has. They are a great little truck.

Jamie L on September 4, 2021

Takes a lot to kill a 2004 Dakota

My vehicle currently is in need of a transmission solenoid and a radiator and thermostat. The truck has close to 200k miles and this is the first mechanical issues I've had. The truck overall is a great truck lots of power and towing capacity for a small truck. Even in the current condition she has never left me stranded. I recommend this truck to anyone who wants a reliable tough truck.

Caitlin G on November 25, 2021

2004 Dakota is the best vehicle I have ever bought. I wouldn't want anything different.

I absolutely love this truck. It is great in different types of scenarios. Mud. Concrete. Dirt. It has been my most reliable vehicle I have ever had. I love the interior and how everything is set up. The bench seat is perfect in the back for kids when we go kayaking. I fit all 3 of my kayaks in the bed of the truck perfectly. Really wouldn't want any other vehicle.

Ernest W. on May 9, 2022

1994 Dodge Dakota

It had 350,000 miles on it the front right wheel bearing went out ,I replaced it but went out a month later . I was told when I took it to the shop that the spindle was the problem ,so I got a new one put it in and still lost the bearing. So i finally had to get rid of it but the motor had no problem or the 5 speed manual transmission. I hated to let it go .

Jesse r on July 4, 2021

Do not buy a 2005 Dodge Dakota, it will be the worst truck you ever buy

I purchased the truck about 14 months ago. I paid $4500 for it, in the year since, I have had to invest around a thousand dollars a month into the truck, now it will not pass nys emissions inspection, and i am having a hard time selling the truck even with 119,x*x original miles and a brand new transmission with less than 10k miles on it

Susan L on October 5, 2021

2004 Dakota is a great mid-size truck with extended cab a huge plus!

Great mid size truck with extended cab. . . It is roomy enough inside & out! The back seat is perfect for shopping or taking the dog with us. The bed will haul 1 rick of wood. We would appreciate a little bigger bed but it works for us ok. Have had to replace the u-joint & brakes. Otherwise it is pretty "shop" free!

Adam S on September 14, 2021

2004 Dakota Quad Cab 4 Wheel drive

I love the v8 power, the way it handles in snow as well as on and off road. It has a roomy cab with seating for 6. The seats are comfortable. It hauls a heavy trailer easily and looks good too. I feel safe in and secure taking my children with me. All in all it's a great vehicle and I won't hesitate to buy another.

Dan on August 10, 2022

2000 Dakota R/T

Most reliable vehicle I have ever owned hence why I still have it after 20+ years. The wife has gone through 4 more modern cars in that time frame and my old dakota has required less fixes then any of hers. Im slowly starting to restore her now with 122k miles it just needs new paint and the wheels restored.

Danielle T on November 4, 2021

2005 Dakota with broken 4x4 drive and bad shift solenoids

The problem with the vehicle that has a bad shift solenoids and has a loud muffler. I have stop and turn the truck off to reset the shift solenoid. It is very rusty. It does have a misfire on one cylinder. It has a new master cylinder and brake booster that we have fixed. The 4 wheel drive does not work.

Janet K on August 24, 2021

Brand new 14 year old 2004 Dakota

My truck is 14 years old and it looks and runs brand new with only 60,000 mile.. The only repairs I ever had to make was maintenance. I feel that the Dodge manufacturers had a very good day when they made my truck. It is a big part of me and I know when the truck is done, I will miss it like family.

Lane P on August 12, 2021

The Silver Dodge Dakota 2004

The Dodge Dakota is an exceptional every day driver. I have the 8 cylinder so aside from using a large amount of gas every week it is an absolute reliable form of transportation. The vehicle really has a lot of get up and go when your in need of that sort of thing. Sadly it is only two wheel drive.

Joshua G on August 3, 2021

2007 Dodge Dakota extended cab issues

Rusty body and poor steering problems. Leaking oil pan. Makes a very odd noise when it hits a bump. Sounds like a vacuum that is broken. Comfortable seat. No power windows in the vehicle. Got screwed over by the dealership I bought it from. Four wheel drive doesn't work properly either.

Dan J on June 19, 2021

Lemon 2005 Dakota: repairs begin at 50,000 miles.

It has 65,000 and I've already replaced upper and lower ball joints on both sides, transmission, and brakes every year. I don't drive on bad roads or highways. I don't drive it hard either. It's not used for hauling or towing. I think this truck is just a lemon.

Madison G on September 21, 2021

2004 Dodge Dakota review.

Good gas mileage. Older truck so it's a bit rusty. Smooth ride. Very reliable. Seats are comfortable. Could use more feet room. Good truck. Has middle seat. Had cup holders on door. Has ashtray and lighter. Can hold a lot behind seats. Pulls good. Big bed.

John Weeks on November 13, 2021

2004 Dodge Dakota is a nice truck

Great reliability, 4.7 liter 8 cylinder engine pulls great and does okay on fuel consumption. I overheated engine getting stuck in the mud. I think radiators were too small for high demand throttle so I installed an oversized 1 5/8” core radiator.

Melinda B on August 22, 2021

Its a 2003 and is starting to fall apart.

The rear end is going out. Had to replace the oil pump. Replaced the gas pump. Transmission is acting up and am afraid to drive it on the interstate. It is comfortable but not good on gas mileage. The body is still looking good.

David S on June 29, 2021

1. Priced 2. Durability. 3. Gas mileage 4. Safety features. 2004 Dakota has it all.

Good gas mileage. Easy to handle. Four wheel drive option. Five speed manual transmission for better gas mileage. Over 190, 00 miles. Does not use oil between oil changes. Love this truck.

Carol M on November 1, 2021

Do not buy 2007 Dodge Dakota

I hate that this truck was so cheaply made. My biggest complaint is that the front end is so repair-prone. Constantly replacing the tire rod, getting alignments, tires wearing out.

Jim F on July 25, 2021

2004 Dakota. I don't need a big truck with a lot of power-just enough for me to get my job done and this one fits my lifestyle

It is the right size for what I need. It has a 6 cylinder engine and has plenty of power when I need it. It is a very reliable truck and I like the styling of it too.

dan Z on November 17, 2021

My 2004 Dakota hauls large loads with ease, and can drive over basically any type of terrain.

I like the powerful engine with on-demand 4 wheel drive. It has comfy seats and nice interior. I enjoy driving with the 4 speed manual shift

David W on December 17, 2021

2004 Dakota SXT

Love my truck. 170,000 miles and still runs great. Had the transmission rebuilt 2 years ago. No complaints considering the age and miles.

Daniel L on July 4, 2021

2004 Dakota is a reliable truck that has not given me any major problems for 13 years.

I like that my truck is equipped with four wheel drive. I like that my truck has been a reliable means of transportation for 13 years.

Kent J on August 11, 2021

Do not recommend the 2005 Dakota

High mantaincentive vehicle . New motor at 83,000 for around $8000. Ball joints at 12900. Rotors replaced after first year warped.

Andrew B on July 26, 2021

Rough ride and transmission problems with my 2005 Dakota

Had to rebuild the transmission and had some other issues with the ac.

Joseph R. Lecouffe Jr. on June 14, 2022

Awd and 4x4 2003 Dakota automatic great truck

Rebuilding being from N.EAST. 129,00mi. Still going strong.

Gilbert Smith

Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.