1990 Dodge Dakota
1990 Dodge Dakota
The 1990 Dodge Dakota was a mid-size pickup truck that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.5L four-cylinder, which produced 101 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque. A 3.9L V6 was also available, which produced 125 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic.
People who like the 1990 Dodge Dakota often praise its roomy interior, powerful engine options, and good towing capacity. However, some people have reported issues with the vehicle’s reliability and build quality.
Engine
2.5L Four-Cylinder
Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include a drop in coolant level, a rough idle, and a loss of power. This issue can be fixed by replacing the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
Timing chain failure: The timing chain can fail, causing the engine to lose power and stall. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine and a loss of power. This issue can be fixed by replacing the timing chain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
3.9L V6
Head gasket failure: The head gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include a drop in coolant level, a rough idle, and a loss of power. This issue can be fixed by replacing the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include a drop in coolant level, a rough idle, and a loss of power. This issue can be fixed by replacing the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
Transmission
Five-Speed Manual
- Transmission fluid leak: The transmission fluid can leak from the transmission case. Symptoms include a drop in transmission fluid level and difficulty shifting gears. This issue can be fixed by replacing the transmission fluid seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
Four-Speed Automatic
- Transmission slippage: The transmission can slip gears, causing a loss of power and acceleration. Symptoms include a delayed engagement of gears and a loss of power when accelerating. This issue can be fixed by replacing the transmission fluid and filter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
Suspension
Front suspension: The front suspension can wear out, causing the vehicle to ride rough and handle poorly. Symptoms include excessive bounce, noise from the suspension, and a loss of control. This issue can be fixed by replacing the worn suspension components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
Rear suspension: The rear suspension can wear out, causing the vehicle to ride rough and handle poorly. Symptoms include excessive bounce, noise from the suspension, and a loss of control. This issue can be fixed by replacing the worn suspension components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
Electrical
Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge. Symptoms include a dim dashboard, a charging system warning light, and a dead battery. This issue can be fixed by replacing the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
Starter failure: The starter can fail, causing the engine to not start. Symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start the engine and a lack of power. This issue can be fixed by replacing the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
Exterior
Rust: The body of the vehicle can rust, especially in areas where salt is used on the roads. Symptoms include bubbling paint, rust spots, and holes in the body. This issue can be fixed by sanding and painting the rusted areas. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
Headlights: The headlights can become cloudy or yellowed, reducing their effectiveness. Symptoms include a decrease in brightness and a yellow or cloudy appearance. This issue can be fixed by replacing the headlights. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
Interior
Dashboard: The dashboard can crack or fade over time. Symptoms include a cracked or faded dashboard. This issue cannot be fixed, but the dashboard can be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Door panels: The door panels can become loose or damaged. Symptoms include rattling door panels and loose or missing trim. This issue can be fixed by replacing the door panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
Summary
The 1990 Dodge Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck that is known for its roomy interior, powerful engine options, and good towing capacity. However, some people have reported issues with the vehicle’s reliability and build quality. Common issues include intake manifold gasket failures, timing chain failures, transmission fluid leaks, worn suspension components, alternator failures, starter failures, rust, cloudy headlights, cracked dashboards, and loose door panels. The severity of these issues can vary, and the cost to fix them can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.