1990-1996 Dodge Dakota: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1996 Dodge Dakota and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger room
- Acceleration (V6, V8)
Cons
- Interior storage space
- Acceleration (4-cylinder)
Vehicle Highlights
Introduced for 1987, Dodge's Dakota was the first midsize pickup--larger than most compacts and smaller than full-size models. Dakotas came in two sizes: 112-inch wheelbase with a 6.5-foot cargo bed, or 124-inch wheelbase with an 8-foot bed. Each had a 3-place bench seat, but bucket seats might be installed in base or Sport models. A Club Cab pickup arrived in 1990, with a 131-inch wheelbase and 6.5-foot bed, plus storage compartments beneath hinged rear cushions. Rear antilock brakes had been added for 1989. An innovative convertible pickup truck joined the line during 1989, with standard 3.9-liter V6, but remained on sale only into 1990.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Dodge Dakota 3.9-liter ext. cab Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 1 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 31 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1996 Dodge Dakota. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1996 Dodge Dakota.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Dodge Dakota:
A V8 engine become available this year--the only such installation offered in a non-full-size pickup. In addition, the 4-cylinder base engine gained 17 horsepower. All Dakotas got a freshened front end, including a new grille and bumper. Nose sheetmetal was extended about three inches. LE and Sport models gained aero headlamps, while the Sport got a body-color grille and front air dam with fog lamps (plus a chrome roof bar with off-road lights). Club Cab trucks could now have 4-wheel drive.
1992 Dodge Dakota:
Both V6 and V8 engines gained a whopping power boost. Horsepower jumped from 125 to 180 on the V6 and 165 to 230 on the V8.
1993 Dodge Dakota:
Four-wheel antilock braking became available (a "first" for pickups of any brand). Dakotas got a stainless steel exhaust, seat cushions were recontoured, and 4-cylinder engines lost power.
1994 Dodge Dakota:
Safety got the nod this season. Dakota became the first pickup with a driver-side airbag, accompanied by a new padded knee bolster, side door guard beams, and center high-mounted stoplamp.
1995 Dodge Dakota:
A shift interlock was added to manual transmissions, and a 2WD Sport Club Cab model joined the 1995 lineup.
1996 Dodge Dakota:
A new "Magnum" 4-cylinder base engine went into Dakotas for their final outing in this form. Automatic transmissions gained electronic shift controls.
Our road test for the 1990-1996 Dodge Dakota includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1996 Dodge Dakota and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1996 Dodge Dakota is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Regular cabs have ample space for three adults, but neither the bench seat nor the available buckets are particularly comfortable (1993 and later buckets are better). Not much storage space is available behind the seat, unless you opt for the Club Cab. But it's hard to get into the rear seat, which isn't sufficient for three and has limited knee room. The floor-mounted 4WD lever is low and sits well forward, so you have to reach under the dash to shift from 2WD to 4WD High. Other controls are easy to reach. The base 4-cylinder engine is adequate, but not a wise choice unless you rarely carry cargo. Relaxed at highway speeds, the husky early V6 develops enough low-speed torque to haul heavy loads, but it's still no fireball when pushing hard. The "Magnum" V6 introduced for 1992 yields better acceleration (Dodge claimed a 0-60 mph time of 8.3 seconds), but engine and exhaust noise are more noticeable under hard throttle. Acceleration is more robust yet with the V8, which is the choice for towing. Dakotas handle competently and ride well considering their size, though the ride gets bouncy when the cargo box is empty. Despite ABS, rear wheels tend to lock prematurely in hard stops. We'd prefer a later model with the optional 4-wheel antilock braking.
Value for the Money
Solid and robust, a Dakota makes a good practical choice. A long-wheelbase version with the 8-foot bed might serve nearly as well as a full-size pickup.
Solid and robust, a Dakota makes a good practical choice. A long-wheelbase version with the 8-foot bed might serve nearly as well as a full-size pickup.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Dodge Dakota 3.9-liter ext. cab Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 1 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 31 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Dodge Dakota includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Dodge Dakota .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
If the air conditioner gradually stops cooling and/or the airflow from the vents decreases, the computer (PCM) may not be sending a signal to the compressor clutch relay to cycle off, which causes the AC evaporator to freeze up. (1991-95)
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission will not engage when first started, chances are the torque converter is draining down. Chrysler will correct the problem by installing a check valve. (1993)
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission won't upshift in cool weather, it is probably due to defective cast iron seal rings in the governor drive. (1992-94)
Engine fan noise:
In warm weather, the fan makes a roaring sound. Dodge will replace the fan, the fan clutch, and, on max cooling systems, the radiator cap. (All)
Exhaust backfire:
Exhaust backfire and/or a popping noise in the exhaust may be caused by a defective Powertrain Control Module. (1994-95)
Oil leak:
Oil leak at the filter on 3.9-, 5.2-, and 5.9-liter engines is likely due to a warped adapter plate. (1995)
Oil leak:
Rear main seals on 2.5- and 4.0-liter engines are prone to leakage. To prevent future failures, Chrysler has a rubber plug available that goes in a hole above the starter that protects the rear main seal. (1996)
Oil pump:
Oil pump gear wear results in bucking and surging when the engine is warm and lack of lubrication when the engine is cold. (1992-93)
Rough idle:
Because of a problem with the idle air control motor, the engine idles rough, stalls at low speeds or when decelerating, especially in warm weather. (1992-94)
Suspension noise:
Front ball joints wear prematurely forcing relacement of lower control arm as well. Replacement joint with grease fitting is now available. (1990-96)
Transaxle leak:
Automatic transmission fluid leaks from the speed sensor in the transmission. (1994)
Water leak:
The roof seams leak water that seeps down behind the dashboard onto the floor. (1993-95)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $415 |
| Alternator | $295 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $790 |
| Brakes | $315 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $525 |
| Exhaust System | $310 |
| Radiator | $405 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $190 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $190 |
| Universal Joints | $130 |
Our price chart for this generation Dodge Dakota details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1996 | |||
| Dakota 2WD | $1,600-2,800 | $1,100-1,800 | $200-400 |
| Dakota 4WD | $2,300-3,700 | $1,700-2,700 | $400-700 |
| 1995 | |||
| Dakota 2WD | $1,500-2,500 | $1,000-1,600 | $200-300 |
| Dakota 4WD | $2,100-3,200 | $1,500-2,200 | $400-600 |
| 1994 | |||
| Dakota 2WD | $1,400-2,000 | $900-1,300 | $200 |
| Dakota 4WD | $1,900-2,600 | $1,300-1,800 | $300-400 |
| 1993 | |||
| Dakota 2WD | $1,300-1,800 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| Dakota 4WD | $1,800-2,400 | $1,200-1,600 | $300-400 |
| 1992 | |||
| Dakota 2WD | $1,200-1,700 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Dakota 4WD | $1,600-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $200-300 |
| 1991 | |||
| Dakota 2WD | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| Dakota 4WD | $1,500-1,900 | $1,000-1,200 | $200 |
| 1990 | |||
| Dakota 2WD | $1,000-1,400 | $600-800 | $100 |
| Dakota 4WD | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Dodge Dakota include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | ext. cab | reg. cab long bed | reg. cab short bed |
| Wheelbase, in. | 130.9 | 123.9 | 111.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 208.0 | 207.5 | 189.0 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.4 | 69.4 | 69.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 65.6 | 65.0 | 65.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3528 | 3124 | 3042 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | -- | -- | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | 2000 | 2600 | 2600 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.0 | 15.0 | 15.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | 3 | 3 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.5 | 39.5 | 39.5 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.8 | 41.8 | 41.8 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.9 | -- | -- |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 24.8 | -- | -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two- and 4-wheel-drive Dakotas had a 100-horsepower, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, or a 3.9-liter V6 that made 125 horsepower. The V6 was standard in 4x4 and Sport models, optional in 2WDs, except for the price-leader Dakota S. A 5-speed manual gearbox was standard and 4-speed automatic optional. Dakota's 4WD setup is a part-time, on-demand system, not intended for use on dry pavement. It used automatic-locking front hubs and a floor-mounted transfer-case lever.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc I4 | 2.5 / 153 | 99-120 | 132-145 | 5-speed manual: 21/25 | 5-speed manual: 20.2 |
| ohc V6 | 3.9 / 239 | 125-180 | 195-225 | 5-speed manual: 16/22 4-speed automatic: 16/20 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V8 | 5.2 / 318 | 165-230 | 250-295 | 5-speed manual: 14/20 4-speed automatic: 14/18 |
5-speed manual: 15.4 4-speed automatic: 13.9 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Dodge Dakota include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1996 Dakota |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1996 Dodge Dakota directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990 light-duty 4x2 and club-cab w/V8:
Frame can crack at steering-gear attachment and/or mounting bolts can fracture, allowing steering gear to separate.
1990:
Valve cover gasket may allow oil leakage.
1991 2WD:
Right front-brake hose may rub against tire during full-left turn.
1991 w/4-speed automatic:
Fuel hose may contact wiring harness, resulting in leakage.
1991:
Premium steering wheel could crack and separate from hub.
1991-92 w/A500 automatic transmission:
Inadvertent placement of shift lever in "Reverse" can occur when driver believes it has been placed in "Park."
1993:
ABS could become inoperative when hard pedal effort is applied.
1994:
Control-arm attaching bolts were not properly heat treated. If they break, steering control could be lost.
1994:
Dealers will install a redesigned steering-wheel back cover to keep extra keys from getting caught behind the wheel when the key is in the ignition.
1994:
Fuel-tank support straps could separate resulting in fuel leak and increased risk of fire.
1996 w/2.5-liter engine:
Power-brake-vacuum hose in some trucks could be improperly installed; disconnected hose can cause increase in idle speed and loss of power assist.
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