2002 Dodge Dakota recalls and problems
The 2002 Dodge Dakota has 5 safety recalls and 678 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Dodge dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2002 Dodge Dakota vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2002 Dodge Dakota recalls
Recall 07V-555: Power Train
Problem: On certain van and pickup trucks equipped with automatic transmissions, the ignition/park shift interlock system may become inoperative. This can allow the shifter to be moved out of the "park" position with the ignition key removed (Or in the "lock" position). This can also allow the ignition key to be removed when the shifter has not been placed in the "park" position.
Risk: Either of these conditions could allow the vehicle to roll away causing a crash without warning.
Fix: Dealers will replace the gearshift blocker and bracket assembly free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during january 2008. Owners may contact chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Recall 04V-596: Suspension
Problem: On certain sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks equipped with four-wheel drive (4x4), if moisture leaks into the front suspension upper ball joint, evacuation of the lubricant and corrosion of the joint may cause the joint to wear over an extended period of time. This could cause a clunking noise in the front suspension, which may not always be heard by the vehicle occupants.
Risk: Excessive wear in the upper ball joint may allow it to separate, which could result in loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix: Dealers will replace the front suspension upper ball joints. This safety improvement campaign began on december 21, 2004. Owners can contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Recall 04V-216: Visibility
Problem: On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the windshield wiper module motor may be susceptible to water intrusion that could cause internal corrosion and result in partial or complete loss of front windshield wiping capability.
Risk: Driver visibility could be reduced, which could result in a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the front windshield wiper module. Owner notification began on july 12, 2004. Owners should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Recall 03V-505: Equipment
Problem: On certain minivans and 4x2 pickup trucks, the vehicle certification label may have gross axle weight ratings (Gawr) that exceed the maximum tire load capacity as defined in federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 120, "tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars."
Risk: Improperly loading your vehicle can cause tire failure and result in a crash.
Fix: Owners will be provided with vehicle certification label overlays containing corrected information relative to vehicle gawr and tire size. Owner notification began march 1, 2004. Owners should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-992-1997.
Recall 03V-389: Electrical System
Problem: On certain pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions, the headlamp and dash wiring harness may be chafed by the actuation of the clutch pedal. This could result in abnormal operation of the wipers, turn signals, horn or lighting systems.
Risk: This could affect driver visibility, could prevent a driver from sounding a warning by using the horn, and, when the turn signals are inoperative, the driver cannot use them to signal intent to turn, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will reroute the wire harness and repair the harness if necessary. Owner notification began november 3, 2003. Owners should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-992-1997.
2002 Dodge Dakota problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension | 300 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 203 | |
| Power Train | 93 | |
| Electrical System | 54 | |
| Steering | 48 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 34 | |
| Air Bags | 28 | |
| Service Brakes | 26 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 23 | |
| Visibility | 20 | |
| Structure | 18 | |
| Tires | 14 |
Most reported parts
- Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Upper Ball Joint — 162
- Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint — 69
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor — 68
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 40
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 28
- Suspension › Front — 28
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Caliper — 15
- Air Bags › Frontal — 13
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 39,199 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Dodge Dakota complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Dodge Dakota years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Dodge Dakota have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 5 recalls for the 2002 Dodge Dakota: 07V-555 (power train), 04V-596 (suspension), 04V-216 (visibility), 03V-505 (equipment), 03V-389 (electrical system). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Dodge Dakota?
Owners report suspension problems most often (300 reports), followed by service brakes, hydraulic (203). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 39,199 miles.
Are Dodge recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Dodge dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.