2009 Dodge Dakota

The 2009 Dodge Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck that offers a blend of utility and comfort. For the 2009 model year, engine options included a 210 horsepower 3.7L V6 engine producing 235 lb-ft of torque, a 290 horsepower 4.7L V8 engine producing 320 lb-ft of torque, and a 302 horsepower 5.7L V8 engine producing 329 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices varied depending on the engine but primarily included a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Dakota’s rugged styling, decent towing capacity, and maneuverability compared to full-size trucks. Common complaints revolve around fuel economy, some reliability issues, and the aging design.

Engine

3.7L V6

• No Issues Found

4.7L V8

• Cracked Exhaust Manifolds
  • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise, especially upon cold start, that may diminish as the engine warms up. This noise is often caused by a crack in the exhaust manifold. Can also cause exhaust fumes to leak into the engine compartment.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold. Some owners opt for aftermarket manifolds.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can occur due to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the misfire (using a scan tool) and replace the faulty component(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky gear changes during acceleration or deceleration. Can be more pronounced between certain gears.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, valve body issues or internal damage may require repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $800 - $2500+ (repair/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shaking or vibrating sensation, especially at lower speeds and during light acceleration. This can indicate torque converter failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, possibly with a transmission fluid flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failing ball joints. It is recommended to replace ball joints in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sag, especially when loaded, clunking or squeaking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken leaf spring(s). It is recommended to replace leaf springs in pairs for balanced performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Multiple electrical problems, including non-starting, fuel pump relay failure, stalling, windshield wiper malfunction, and lighting issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM. In some cases, individual relays can be replaced if the TIPM itself isn’t faulty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ (TIPM replacement), $50 - $200 (relay replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clock Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated, inability to use steering wheel controls (horn, radio controls), and potential issues with the cruise control.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust formation on rocker panels, lower door edges, and around the wheel wells. This is more common in areas with road salt usage.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of rusted panels. Rust prevention treatments can help slow down the progression.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the severity and extent of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in warmer climates or vehicles exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive) or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 (cover), $500 - $1500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, making grinding noises, or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Dodge Dakota can be a useful and versatile truck, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The 4.7L V8 engine can be prone to exhaust manifold issues and engine misfires, while both automatic transmissions can suffer from harsh shifting or torque converter problems. Electrical gremlins with the TIPM can be frustrating. Rust is another concern to watch out for, especially in areas with harsh winters. The cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the issue, but some, like TIPM replacement or rust repair, can be quite expensive. Thoroughly inspecting a potential purchase and obtaining a pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended.