2004 Dodge Dakota Suspension Problems

“From the very beginning I kept hearing noises from the brakes and front end. This was going into the 2nd year of ownership. My Dodge Dakota has been in the shop at least 15 times for the same thing. They have replaced the steering parts, sway bar, brakes rotors, caliber and still make a a moaning groaning noise when ever I turn or go over bumps.”

“While having my tires rotated at sears, the tech informed me that the ball joints on my 2004 Dodge Dakota were very badly worn, both upper and lower. The vehicle has only 54,000 miles and is driven almost exclusively on pavement. I contacted the dealer, lithia Dodge of roseburg oregon, I spoke with service manager phil tyler and lot manager wayne knowles, and Dodge corporate, but both refused to discuss the issue further.”

“I have a 2004 Dodge Dakota crew cab with about 6,000 miles on it. For several months it has been making a crunching sound from the front end on tight turns. I am aware of widespread upper ball joint problems on other dakotas. The Dodge dealer says there is nothing wrong, but the noise is persistent, and there must be something wrong.”

“On 10/22/03 I had upper and lower left side ball joints replaced due to noise and vibration with mileage under 32100 miles. On 7/20/04 the rear universal joint had to be replaced at 37821 miles. All repairs 100% my cost. Here we are again at 38340 miles; noise, clunking, and vibration in the front suspension. Back to the dealer.”

“I bought a 2004 Dodge Dakota 3/20/04 and ever since it was new it has made a popping or a scraping noise when I turn. I made complaints to the dealer at the 3,000 mi and 7,000 mi oil changes but the dealer tells me they can't find anything. Now I see that 2003 and previous Dakota's have been recalled for ball joint service I am wondering. I have not drove my Dakota since october cause I don't feel safe driving it.”