Vehicles / Dodge / Dakota / 2002

2002 Dodge Dakota

678 federal complaints (946 component records) · 5 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 51 service bulletins · 5 Canadian recalls
See all 27 model years of the Dodge Dakota →
Engine
2.5L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
17 city / 22 hwy
Federal complaints
678
Recall campaigns
5
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Suspension
300
Brakes
237
Power train
93
Electrical system
54
Steering
48
Engine & cooling
38
Air bags
28
Lighting
25
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 79 complaints01 years old: 138 complaints2 years old: 166 complaints3 years old: 60 complaints4 years old: 38 complaints5 years old: 25 complaints56 years old: 28 complaints7 years old: 22 complaints8 years old: 21 complaints9 years old: 10 complaints10 years old: 9 complaints1011 years old: 8 complaints12 years old: 14 complaints13 years old: 9 complaints14 years old: 8 complaints15 years old: 5 complaints1516 years old: 6 complaints17 years old: 1 complaints18 years old: 1 complaints19 years old: 1 complaints20+ years old: 2 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 651 of 678 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 90 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 146 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 109 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 44 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 39 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 19 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 14 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 10 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 5 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 4 complaints200,000+ miles: 5 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 485 of 678 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Suspension

300 complaint records3 fire reports7 crash reports
"PULLING OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND THE BOTTOM OF THE CONTROL ARM BROKE FREE LETTING THE WHEEL COME FREE FROM THE VEHICLE..... *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse suspension parts in the directory →

Brakes

237 complaint records13 fire reports15 crash reports
"RIGHT FRONT BRAKE CALIPER STUCK, BRAKE GOT HOT, SMOKE CAME OUT OF THE WHEEL WELL. HAD TO HAVE TRUCK TOWER TO DEALER. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse brakes parts in the directory →

Power train

93 complaint records1 fire report11 crash reports
"IGNITION/PARK INTERLOCKSYSTEM. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. SHIFTING LEVER STICKS IN PARK. CANNOT SHIFT GEAR OUT OF PARK. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
EA03023
opened Nov 2003
closed Feb 2005SuspensionUPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION - led to recall 04V596000
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
07V555000Power TrainON CERTAIN VAN AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE IGNITION/PARK SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE.Normally free
04V596000SuspensionON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE (4X4), IF MOISTURE LEAKS INTO THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINT, EVACUATION OF THE LUBRICANT AND CORROSION OF THE JOINT MAY CAUSE...Normally free
04V216000VisibilityON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE MOTOR MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO WATER INTRUSION THAT COULD CAUSE INTERNAL CORROSION AND RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE LOSS OF FRONT WINDSHIELD...Normally free
03V505000EquipmentON CERTAIN MINIVANS AND 4X2 PICKUP TRUCKS, THE VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL MAY HAVE GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATINGS (GAWR) THAT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM TIRE LOAD CAPACITY AS DEFINED IN FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO.Normally free
03V389000Electrical SystemON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS, THE HEADLAMP AND DASH WIRING HARNESS MAY BE CHAFED BY THE ACTUATION OF THE CLUTCH PEDAL.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2007389
2007-12-05
Other39,078On certain vehicles, the ignition/park shift interlock system may become inoperable. This can allow the shifter to be moved out of the PARK position with the ignition key removed (or in the lock position) or it could allow the ignition key...
2004439
2004-12-20
Suspension57,649On certain four wheel drive vehicles, if moisture leaks into the front suspension upper ball joint, evacuation of the lubricant and corrosion of the joint may cause the joint to wear progressively over an extended period of time.
2004155
2004-05-06
Other30,456On certain vehicles, the windshield wiper motor assembly may become susceptible to water intrusion that could cause internal corrosion and result in partial or complete loss of front windshield wiping capability.
2003341
2003-12-19
Label2,631On certain vehicles, the certification label does not meet the requirements of CMVSS 120. The Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR) on the label exceeds the load carrying capacity of the minimum size tire listed on the label.
2003245
2003-10-14
Electrical6,065On certain vehicles equipped with a manual transmission, the headlamp and dash wiring harness may be chafed by the actuation of the clutch pedal.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
101232
Oct 2024
Power TrainPlate - Planetary
9004275
Jul 2020
Electrical SystemKEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms.
23-015-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentDisinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
08-049-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentCharging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
S2008000049
Apr 2020
Service BrakesABS Brake Module Code 82 and 83 Setting Within The Brake Module
Show 46 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
31-006-19
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
31-003-19
Nov 2019
EquipmentUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
31-005-19
Nov 2019
EquipmentUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
3100619
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
3100319
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
3100519
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
68332810
Sep 2016
Engine And Engine CoolingService - Four Piece Oil Pan Gasket All Cummins Equipped Vehicles ONLY - The replacement oil pan gasket can be a four piece gasket rather than a single piece gasket. This applies to Cummins 5.9L and 6.7L engines only. Installation: 1. Clean the oil pan T-joints.~ 2.
R2118796A
Feb 2016
Engine And Engine CoolingValve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
9002828
Sep 2014
EquipmentPart Description: Insulator in Lever Assembly - Valve Body - Trans Issue Description: The manual valve insulator, attaching rivet and an instruction sheet are now available as a kit. If the insulator requires replacement lease order 68253099AA.
9002849
Sep 2014
EquipmentPart Description: Insulator on Lever Assy Manual Valve - Valve Body - RWD Transmission Issue Description: The manual valve insulator, attaching rivet and instruction sheet are now available as a kit. If the insulator requires replacement please order kit 68253161AA.
9002901
Jan 2014
Power TrainPart Description: Seal - Shift Shaft on RFE transmissions Issue Description: This seal (04799346) is replaceable with Seal Kit (68235551AA), which includes a seal and retainer. The Seal Kit is applicable to all (5)45RFE transmissions.
9002872
Mar 2013
Electrical System56045489A$ - Neutral Safety Switch - Trans Assy 06036369AA Screw and Washer is now available as a service part , 2 required to attach Neutral Start Switch
9002519
Mar 2013
Equipment82212076, 82203694 - Fabric Cleaner This "fabric cleaner" is not intended for sale in California, the otc states (Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington dc), and some ladco states (Illinois,...
0803006
Aug 2006
Power TrainPOWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE INITIALIZATION. *KB
2101505
Sep 2005
Power Train45RFE/545RFE TRANS - DELAYED ENGAGEMENT DUE TO COOLER RETURN FILTER REPLACEMENT. *SC
2401305
Aug 2005
EquipmentAIR CONDITIONING (A/C) COOLING COIL ODOR. *TT
0801505
Mar 2005
Power TrainPOWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE INITIALIZATION. *SC
0201004
Dec 2004
SuspensionUPPER BALL JOINT EXTENDED WARRANTY. *TT
2301004
Sep 2004
StructurePASSENGER COMPARTMENT FLOOR WATER LEAK. *TT THIS BULLETIN SUPERSEDES BULLETIN 23-010-04 DATED 04-29-04. *TT
1801504
Apr 2004
Vehicle Speed ControlIDLE FLUCTUATION WHILE TURNING. *TT
0802303
Jul 2003
Electrical SystemINTERMITTENT LOCKING/UNLOCKING OF DOORS WITHOUT ACTIVATING THE POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH. *TT
0703
Jul 2003
StructureDISCONNECTING THE PARK BRAKE RELEASE HANDLE WHEN SERVICING THE STEERING COLUMN OPENING COVER. *TT
1800103A
Mar 2003
Power TrainCUSTOMERS MAY COMPLAIN THE VEHICLE WILL NOT SHIFT OUT OF 2ND GEAR WHILE CLIMBING A GRADE. UPDATE TO TRANSMISSION CALIBRATIONS.
1800203
Jan 2003
Interior LightingTHE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) MAY ILLUMINATE DUE TO ERRONEOUS DETECTION OF A SMALL LEAK IN THE VEHICLE'S EVAPORATIVE SYSTEM. *TT
1800103
Jan 2003
Power TrainCUSTOMERS MAY COMPLAIN THE VEHICLE WILL NOT SHIFT OUT OF 2ND GEAR WHILE CLIMBING A GRADE. UPDATE TO TRANSMISSION CALIBRATIONS. *TT
1400102A
Oct 2002
Fuel SystemFUEL CAP DIFFICULT TO REMOVE. *TT
10023
Oct 2002
SteeringSTEERING COLUMN SERVICE. INFORMATION. SERVICE INFORMATION TUNEUPS. *TT
2100202
Jul 2002
Power TrainSUBJECT REGARDING REVISION IN DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES AND LABOR OPERATION TIMES FOR RE TRANSMISSIONS. *TT
1802002
Jun 2002
Unknown Or OtherFLASH PROGRAMMING FAILURE RECOVERY. *SLC
1801602
May 2002
Unknown Or OtherSUBJECT REGARDING FLASH: MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATION FOR ERRONEOUS DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0456, EVAP MONITOR SMALL LEAK DETECTED. *SLC
1400102
May 2002
Fuel SystemSUBJECT REGARDING FUEL CAP DIFFICULT TO REMOVE. *SLC
02007
Apr 2002
Engine And Engine CoolingSUBJECT REGARDING 4.7L CRANKSHAFT TO BEDPLATE INTERFERENCE. *SLC
02005
Apr 2002
EquipmentMISSING TONNEAU COVER. *SLC
2301502
Apr 2002
VisibilitySUBJECT REGARDING OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR GLASS REPLACEMENT. *SLC
0800702
Mar 2002
Electrical SystemSUBJECT REGARDING REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY PROGRAMMING PROCEDURES. *SLC
2200102
Mar 2002
Unknown Or OtherCHROME WHEEL CARE. *SLC
01016A
Dec 2001
Power TrainRAPID REPONSE TRANSMITTAL REGARDING TRANSMISSION FILLER TUBE RATTLE CONDITION. *TT
01016
Nov 2001
Power TrainSOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A TRANSMISSION FILLER TUBE RATTLE CONDITION. *TT
0500601
Oct 2001
Service BrakesSUBJECT REGARDING DISCOLORED BRAKE FLUID. *TT
0801701
Sep 2001
Electrical SystemSUBJECT REGARDING SAFETY SYSTEMS - VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / REPAIR. *TT
2302701
Sep 2001
VisibilitySUBJECT REGARDING OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR GLASS REPLACEMENT. *TT
1900701
Aug 2001
SteeringINFORMATION ON NEW POWER STEERING FLUID.*SLC
0801601
Aug 2001
EquipmentINFORMATION REGARDING VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH RADIOS WILL HAVE A NEW LOCKING RADIO ANTENNA CONNECTOR. *SLC
0801001
May 2001
Electrical SystemSUBJECT REGARDING AIRBAG / CLOCK SPRING SERVICE FOR VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING 2002 MODEL YEAR JEEP LIBERTY. *TT
1801201
May 2001
EquipmentSUBJECT REGARDING GENERIC SCAN TOOL (GST), PUBLICATION NO. 81-170-00008 PROVIDED WITH THIS TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TO PROVIDE REFERENCE INFORMATION WHEN USING GENERIC SCAN TOOL ON OBDII VEHICLES. *TT
2100601
Mar 2001
Power TrainAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE ATF+4. *TT *MJ

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Find the roughest road nearby.Clunks over bumps, a droning hum that changes when the car leans, or a corner that sits low are this vehicle's suspension complaints. Wheel bearings and control arm bushings lead the parts list.
  2. Brake hard once from speed on an empty road.A pull to one side, a pulsing pedal, a pedal that sinks at a stop, or an ABS light that stays lit are the brake complaints on this vehicle presenting themselves.
  3. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 5 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Dodge Dakota →