The 2000 Dodge Dakota has 6 recalls, the most serious being a front suspension upper ball joint that can corrode, separate, and cause a sudden loss of steering control — this affects 4x4 models only.
On the drivetrain and fire risk side, trucks equipped with the 4.7L engine and automatic transmission can expel fluid from the transmission fill tube during normal operation, and if that fluid contacts the hot exhaust, it can ignite. There is also a brake concern: on some trucks, the power steering hose sits too close to the left front brake line, and over time the hose can wear through the brake tube, causing a partial loss of front braking. The final recall affects Quad Cab models: the lower front seatbelt anchor bolts may not be torqued correctly, which can reduce how well the belt restrains an occupant in a crash.
At a glance
What can fail
Moisture can enter the front suspension upper ball joint on 4x4 SUVs and pickup trucks, causing the lubricant to drain and the joint to corrode and wear over time, potentially creating a clunking noise in the front suspension.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front suspension upper ball joints.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
Moisture can leak into the front suspension upper ball joint, causing lubricant loss and corrosion. The joint wears over time and may separate, leading to loss of vehicle control.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the upper ball joints with revised assemblies that have improved sealing to prevent moisture intrusion.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front lower seat belt anchor bolts may not be properly tightened, which could reduce how well the seat belt restrains a passenger during a crash.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and tighten the driver and passenger side lower seat belt anchor bolts to the correct specification.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The automatic transmission may leak fluid from the fill tube during normal operation. This fluid could contact the hot exhaust system and catch fire.
What the fix does
Dealers will shorten the vent hose and ensure proper clearance between the transmission and exhaust.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The left front brake tube may be too close to the power steering hose. The hose can rub against and wear through the brake tube, causing a leak that reduces braking power to the front wheels.
What the fix does
The brake tube and power steering hose will be inspected and replaced if damaged. A bracket will be installed to keep them properly separated.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The automatic transmission in some pickup trucks may leak fluid from the fill tube during normal driving conditions.
What the fix does
Dealers will shorten the vent hose and ensure proper clearance to prevent fluid expulsion.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
