1997-2004 Dodge Dakota Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our in-depth review covers everything you need to know about this generation Dodge Dakota. Get the latest news, find a local dealer, and get a free price quote for this generation Dodge Dakota.

1997-2004 Dodge Dakota Review

Fully redesigned for 1997, Dodge's pickup again measured between compact and full-size. Powertrains and suspensions were essentially carryovers. Dual airbags were now standard. Regular-cab Dakotas came in two sizes: 111.0-inch wheelbase with a 6.5-foot cargo bed, or 123.9-inch with an 8-foot bed. The Club Cab, which added a 3-place bench seat and 19 inches to the back of the cab, rode a 131-inch wheelbase and came only with the shorter bed. All body styles were available with rear-wheel drive or on-demand 4-wheel drive that is not for use on dry pavement. Rear antilock brakes were standard; 4-wheel ABS optional. Three engines were available: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with 120 horsepower; a 3.9-liter V6 that produced 175 horsepower; and a 5.2-liter V8 with 230 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard; 4-speed automatic optional only with the V6 or V8.

Year to Year Changes

1998 Dodge Dakota: A deactivation switch for the passenger-side airbag was added for '98, and, at mid-season, a high-performance Dakota R/T arrived, packing a 250-horsepower 5.9-liter V8 with automatic transmission and riding a sport suspension with 17-inch tires, became available.

1999 Dodge Dakota: Dakotas got a one-touch-down power driver's window and a redesigned overhead console for '99. A rotary headlight switch replaced the prior pull-turn knob.

2000 Dodge Dakota: Dakotas could now be equipped with a 235-horsepower, 4.7-liter V8 engine, borrowed from the Jeep Grand Cherokee. It replaced the previous 5.2-liter V8. A "crew cab" (Quad Cab) model with four front-hinged side doors debuted in midseason. Quad Cabs seated six. Regular-cab models abandoned the previously available 8-foot cargo bed, coming only with the 6.5-foot bed used by the Club Cab.

2001 Dodge Dakota: New linewide features for 2001 included a standard universal garage door opener, redesigned alloy wheels for Sport and SLT models, and 16-inch wheels instead of 15s with the optional tire and handling packages. Dashboards and center consoles were also redesigned and, on 4x4s, the transfer case was now controlled by a dashboard switch rather than a floor lever.

2002 Dodge Dakota: New for 2002 was an SXT version that included popular equipment such as 16-inch wheels and bucket seats.

2003 Dodge Dakota: The 4-cylinder engine is dropped, while 4.7-liter V8s could get a 5-speed automatic. Also for '03, 16-inch wheels are standard in place of 15s on all models except the R/T, which uses 17s. Rear seats gain LATCH system child-seat anchors, and added midyear was a Stampede package that includes the Tire and Handling Group plus body-color bumpers and lower-body trim.

2004 Dodge Dakota: Dodge dropped the 245-hp 5.9-liter V8 for '04, and replaced the 175-hp 3.9-liter V6 with a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6. Also dropped this year was the sporty R/T model.

1997-2004 Dodge Dakota Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (V8)	Fuel economy (V8)

Quietness	Acceleration (4-cylinder)

Ride (2WD)	Rear-seat room/comfort (ext. cab)

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

The stiffer frame on this generation of Dakota evidently made a noticeable difference, as a 2WD Club Cab model proved to be impressively solid on rough roads. Ride quality was also pleasing. The suspension provided a comfortable and stable ride, with only a little bouncing on wavy surfaces. A 4-wheel-drive model, on the other hand, does not feel as stable or comfortable, jiggling more over bumps. The 5.2-liter V8 is smoother and quieter than before, delivering strong acceleration and passing power. Gas mileage is another story. We averaged only 13.3 mpg with the V8, though that included mainly urban commuting. The overhead-cam 4.7-liter V8 that replaced the 5.2 in 2000 also furnishes strong acceleration. The base 4-cylinder engine is simply too weak for a vehicle of this size and weight. The V6 makes a sensible compromise. The Dakota R/T delivers impressive acceleration, but is hampered by a rough ride and lack of 4-wheel drive. Although the Dakota is roomier than rival compact pickups, the rear bench seat in Club Cab models lacks sufficient leg room for adults. Getting into the rear seat is a squeeze, too. As a bonus, the rear-seat cushion folds up to reveal a couple of handy, flat-topped storage compartments. Rear doors on the Quad Cab are not technically full-size, but they open independently of the front doors and make entry/exit a lot more convenient. The Quad Cab also has more rear leg room than any rival's extended cab, though long-legged adults still will find their knees pressed into the front seatback. This Dakota's dashboard looks more modern, but it's covered with flimsy plastic. Inside door panels are made of cheap-looking molded plastic that does not look or feel durable. In general, though, materials are comparable to those in most rival trucks. Visibility is good all around. Radio and climate controls are easy to reach. Two cupholders are molded into the center console.

Value for the Money
Dakota offers a bit more interior space and towing capacity than compact pickup rivals, and a significant advantage in payload capacity. If you like the styling, the rest of the truck probably won't be disappointing.

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Dodge Dakota Club Cab 2WD, V6 auto	Rating

Performance	4

Fuel Economy	3

Ride Quality	5

Steering/Handling/Braking	4

Quietness	5

Controls/Materials	6

Interior Room	6

Room/Comfort (rear)	2

Cargo Capacity	4

Value within Class	7

Total:	46

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.

1997-2004 Dodge Dakota Reliability

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.

Dashboard lights: The gauges and overhead console quit working because of a blown fuse. (1997)

Engine misfire: Engine bucking at about 5300 rpm may occur when many electrical devices are in use. Noise from the generator affects the transmission-governor pressure sensor delaying upshifts. (1997-98)

Engine noise: The timing chain makes a rattling noise, which requires a replacement chain, sprockets, and tensioner. (1997)

Exhaust system: The exhaust manifold studs on the 2.5-liter engine tend to break. (1997-98)

Keyless entry: If the remote keyless entry transmitter batteries die in less than two months, there is a problem with the transmitter and it will be replaced under warranty. (1997-98)

Manual transmission: High shift effort on 5-speed manual transmission may be remedied with a replacement shift shaft lever and shift detent plunger. (1999-2000)

Paint/body: "Radiant Red Metallic" paint suffers chipping problems because antichip primer was not applied during production. (1997)

Rough idle: Poor driveability may be caused by a rub between the camshaft position sensor and the tone wheel. (2000)

Steering noise: Snapping or clicking noise in steering caused by defective upper bearing retainer for which there is a fix kit. (2005)

Suspension noise: Front ball joints wear prematurely forcing relacement of lower control arm as well. Replacement joint with grease fitting is now available. (1997-03)

Suspension noise: A rhythmic squeaking noise from the front of 2-wheel-drive trucks is likely due to a warped front hub, not the rotor, usually after a brake job. (1997-99)

Vehicle noise: A popping noise can come from the rear of the cab because the sleeves in the cab isolators are too long and must be ground down. (1997-98)

Water leak: Power locks may lock/unlock spontaneously because water leaks into the lock cylinder. (2000-03)

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	$525

Alternator	$355

Automatic Transmission or Transaxle	$990

Brakes	$305

Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing	$610

Exhaust System	$510

Radiator	$400

Shocks and/or Struts	$330

Timing Chain or Belt	$205

Universal Joints	$180

NHTSA Recall History

1997 w/131-inch wheelbase: Some vehicles may have inadequate clearance between fuel line and cab underbody.

1997: Airbag could deploy inadvertently when ignition is shut off.

1997-00 w/2.5-liter engine: Some vehicles may have inadequate clearance between left front brake tube and power-steering hose.

1997-00: Some vehicles may have inadequate clearance between rear-axle vent hose and brake hose.

1997-00: Sound-deadening material inside the steering wheel could become detached from the cover and housing causing the driver-airbag system to become disabled. The airbag-warning lamp will illuminate on the instrument panel.

1998 2WD: Front-brake hoses or antilock brake-system sensor wire may be abraded at front wheels by contact with wheelhouse splash shield; prolonged contact with hose can cause partial braking loss.

1998: Bolts used to attach cab and core support to frame may have been improperly hardened; can allow cab to separate from frame.

1999: The front-seatbelt retractor does not comply with the requirements of the standard. If the retractor does not work properly, it will not adequately protect occupants in the event of a crash.

2000 w/4.7-liter engine and automatic: Automatic transmission may expel fluid from fill tube during normal temperature operation.

2000-01: Some of the owner's manuals for these vehicles are missing instructions for properly attaching a child-restraint system's tether strap to the tether anchorage.

2000-03 w/4WD: If moisture leaks into front suspension upper ball joint, evacuation of the lubricant and corrosion may cause the joint to wear over an extended time period; could cause clunking noise and possible separation that may result in loss of control.

2001 Quad Cab: Front-outboard lower-seatbelt anchor bolts may not be tightened correctly. An improperly tightened seatbelt anchor may not provide the anticipated level of occupant restraint in a crash.

2001 w/4WD: Electric shift-transfer case may not fully engage into gear, causing the transfer case to end up in the neutral position.

2001-02: Certain vehicles are missing certification labels about maximum tire load capacity. Dealers will distribute labels.

2001-03 w/manual transmission: The clutch may chafe headlamp and dash wiring harnesses, causing the horn, lights wipers and signals to be inoperative. Dealer will inspect and replace al affected parts.

2002-04: Windshield wiper motor may be susceptible to water intrusion that could cause internal corrosion, resulting in partial or total loss of wiping capability.

1997-2004 Dodge Dakota Prices

Prices	Good	Average	Poor

1997
Dakota 2WD	$2,300-3,900	$1,700-2,800	$400-700
Dakota 4WD	$3,400-5,000	$2,700-4,000	$900-1,300

1998
Dakota 2WD	$2,600-4,300	$1,900-3,200	$500-900
Dakota 4WD	$3,900-5,700	$3,200-4,700	$1,200-1,800
Dakota R/T	$4,100-5,300	$3,400-4,300	$1,400-1,700

1999
Dakota 2WD	$2,900-5,000	$2,200-3,800	$700-1,200
Dakota 4WD	$4,300-6,200	$3,600-5,100	$1,500-2,100
Dakota R/T	$4,700-5,900	$3,900-5,000	$1,800-2,200

2000
Dakota 2WD	$3,300-7,200	$2,600-5,700	$800-1,800
Dakota 4WD	$5,300-9,200	$4,600-7,900	$2,200-3,800
Dakota R/T	$5,600-7,000	$4,800-6,000	$2,300-2,900

2001
Dakota 2WD	$3,800-8,000	$3,100-6,600	$1,200-2,500
Dakota 4WD	$5,900-10,000	$5,100-8,700	$2,500-4,200
Dakota R/T	$6,300-8,000	$5,500-7,000	$2,800-3,500

2002
Dakota 2WD	$4,500-8,800	$3,700-7,300	$1,600-3,200
Dakota 4WD	$6,700-11,200	$5,900-9,900	$3,100-5,200
Dakota R/T	$7,500-9,000	$6,800-8,100	$3,800-4,500

2003
Dakota 2WD	$5,700-10,000	$4,900-8,600	$2,300-4,100
Dakota 4WD	$8,200-12,500	$7,400-11,300	$4,200-6,400
Dakota R/T	$9,300-11,000	$8,400-9,900	$4,800-5,700

2004
Dakota 2WD	$6,800-11,500	$6,100-10,200	$3,200-5,400
Dakota 4WD	$9,000-14,000	$8,100-12,600	$4,700-7,300

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.

1997-2004 Dodge Dakota Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	ext. cab	reg. cab long bed	reg. cab short bed

Wheelbase, in.	131.0	123.9	111.9

Overall Length, in.	214.8	215.1	195.8

Overall Width, in.	71.5	71.5	71.5

Overall Height, in.	65.6	65.3	65.6

Curb Weight, lbs.	3733	3556	3481

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	--	--	--

Standard Payload, lbs.	3557	3396	3335

Fuel Capacity, gals.	15.0	15.0	15.0

Seating Capacity	6	3	3

Front Head Room, in.	40.0	40.0	40.0

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	41.9	41.9	41.9

Rear Head Room, in.	38.0	--	--

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	22.1	--	--

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Powertrain Options and Availability

Dakotas originally came with a choice of four engines: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, a 3.9-liter V6, and 5.2- or 5.9-liter V8. Five-speed manual shift was standard; 4-speed automatic transmission optional (standard in high-performance R/T). A new overhead-cam 4.7-liter V8 replaced the 5.2-liter in 2000 and the 4-cylinder was dropped in 2003. Also in '03, a 5-speed automatic replaced the optional 4-speed on the 4.7. Dropped in 2004 is the 5.9-liter V8, and the 175-hp 3.9-liter V6 was replaced by a 3.7-liter V6 making 210-hp.

Engines	Size liters / cu. in	Horse- power	Torque	Transmission: EPA city/hgwy	Consumer Guide Observed

ohv I4	2.5 / 150	120	145	5-speed manual: 20/25	5-speed manual: --

ohv V6	3.9 / 239	175	225	5-speed manual: 16/22 4-speed automatic: 16/21	5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 16.5

ohv V8	5.2 / 318	230	300	5-speed manual: 14/19 4-speed automatic: 14/18	5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 13.3

ohv V8	5.9 / 360	245-250	335-345	4-speed automatic: 12/16	4-speed automatic: 13.3

ohc V8	4.7 / 287	230-235	295	5-speed manual: 14/18 4-speed automatic: 14/17 5-speed automatic: 15/20	5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- 5-speed automatic: 16

ohc V6	/ 3.7	210	235	5-speed automatic: --	5-speed automatic: --

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	1999 Dakota

Front Impact, Driver	4

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%. Side-impact 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%.

Built In: USA

Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive

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Also in the 1997-2004 Dodge Dakota Review:

Dodge Dakota

Dodge Dakota Road Test

Dodge Dakota Reliability

Dodge Dakota Prices

Dodge Dakota Specs & Safety

Dodge Dakota Photos

Dodge Dakota Full Review