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Dodge Dakota
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12/16/2009
21:28:44
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 Subject: Dakota troubles
IP: Logged
Message:
I have an '05 Dakota SLT QC W/4.7, the AWD transfer case, LSD, tow package, cold weather package, and have been having problems with it for a long time. The key fobs haven't worked in years, the seat belt light won't turn off (thought the bell does after a while), I've heard some bad noises from the trans and diff, the speedo sticks often at whatever mph I'm traveling, the mechanic told me the front seal is leaking, the rear pinion seal is leaking, the trans lines need replaced.....
Well, the Dodge dealer I took it into today for a laundry list of issues with my '05 Dakota QC makes my decision easier. Essentially, at 55k pretty easy miles miles (for a truck) I need almost $1,100USD in repairs, and probably another $500USD in maintenance. My major worry, is this estimate does not even address some of the issues I THINK I have with it, and I figure I'll probably have to spend that again in another 55k miles, if not more. A few more issues, is who knows if dodge is going to be around any longer, and I really think it's underpowered, I rarely use the bed, the gas mileage sucks and gas isn't going to get cheaper. Maybe it's time.......
I really hate to get into a car payment as I'm just working contract now, but I've already got 3-ish years to pay on it, and I can't see spending a bunch of $$ on it for questionable reliability. The Rav4 V6 Sport I'm considering would bring it out to 5 again, with about another $160/mo extra in payments. The mechanic friend of a guy at work told me a bunch of bad things about the Dodges, serious issues like bad rear diffs (mine's questionable) and bad ball front joints 9where the wheel suddenly falls off!!), whereas the Toyota's seem to be only minor issues. Hmmmmm, I think my decision's getting easier.....
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