2004 Dodge Dakota

Introduction

The 2004 Dodge Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck available in two-door regular cab, four-door Quad Cab, and four-door crew cab configurations. It offers a range of engine and transmission options, including:

• 3.7L V6: 210 horsepower, 235 lb-ft torque
• 4.7L V8: 230 horsepower, 290 lb-ft torque
• 5.9L V8: 310 horsepower, 405 lb-ft torque
• 5-speed manual transmission
• 6-speed manual transmission
• 4-speed automatic transmission
• 5-speed automatic transmission

The Dakota received praise for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and off-road capabilities. However, it also faced criticism for its dated design, lack of refinement, and poor fuel economy.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.7L V8

• Timing chain tensioner failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, reduced power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Manifold heat shield rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy rattling sound from engine bay
  • Solution: Install upgraded heat shield bolts or remove heat shield
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.9L V8

• Valve cover gasket leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, engine smoke
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding or difficulty shifting:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting between gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace transmission synchronizers or gears
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No issues found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Solenoid failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, flaring, slipping
  • Solution: Replace solenoid pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shaking sensation during acceleration
  • Solution: Flush and refill transmission fluid, replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear, uneven ride height, loss of handling
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power window switch failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not working, intermittent operation
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight switch failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working, intermittent operation
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear axle seal leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from rear axle
  • Solution: Replace rear axle seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking or peeling:
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center console armrest broken:
  • Solution: Replace center console armrest
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Dodge Dakota is a reliable and capable truck, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems include engine gaskets, timing chain tensioners, transmission solenoids, leaf spring failure, and electrical issues. The severity of these issues can range from minor annoyances to major repairs requiring significant investment. However, with proper maintenance and repairs, the Dakota can provide a dependable driving experience for many years to come.