The 2001 Dodge Dakota has 6 recalls, the most serious involving two separate rollaway risks: the transfer case on 4-wheel drive models can slip into neutral without warning, and the automatic transmission shift interlock can fail and allow the vehicle to roll away if the parking brake is not set.
On the occupant safety side, Quad Cab models have a recall for front seatbelt anchor bolts that may not be torqued properly, which can reduce how well the belt holds an occupant in a crash. There are also two electrical concerns specific to manual transmission models: the wiring harness for the headlamps and dash can be worn by clutch pedal movement over time, causing the wipers, turn signals, horn, or lights to behave erratically or stop working, which can reduce visibility and limit a driver's ability to signal. Finally, certain 4x2 trucks have a label recall where the vehicle certification sticker lists axle weight ratings that exceed what the tires are actually rated to carry, which can lead to tire failure under heavy loads.
At a glance
What can fail
The interlock system that keeps the shifter in Park and secures the ignition key may fail. This allows the shifter to move out of Park with the key removed, or the key to be removed when the shifter isn't in Park.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the gearshift blocker and bracket assembly at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The certification label shows gross axle weight ratings that exceed what the tires can safely carry under federal standards.
What the fix does
A corrected label overlay with updated weight ratings and tire size information will be provided to owners.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The headlamp and dash wiring harness can wear through where the clutch pedal moves, causing wipers, turn signals, horn, or lights to work abnormally.
What the fix does
The dealer will reroute the wiring harness away from the clutch pedal.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
On certain manual transmission pickup trucks, the headlamp and dash wiring harness can be worn through by clutch pedal movement, causing wipers, turn signals, horn, or lights to work abnormally.
What the fix does
Dealers will reroute the wiring harness and repair it if damaged.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front outboard lower seat belt anchor bolts may not be properly tightened.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and tighten the driver and passenger side lower seat belt anchor bolts to specification.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The electric transfer case may not fully engage into gear when you move the transfer case selector switch on 4-wheel drive vehicles.
What the fix does
Dealers will reprogram the transfer case control module to fix the engagement issue.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
