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V6 Dakotas
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mad42
Dodge Dakota
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10/03/2002
20:27:32

Subject: Piece of Crap
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Bought a 2002 SXT. 250 miles before transmission went out. Steering is heavy on center and light elsewhere, no others I drove had this problem. Engine stumbles reliably at 2300 RPM. Dodge says problems are "characteristic". Didn't tell me that before I bought it. Vent knob has a dozen positions but air only comes out the center face ducts unless these are closed off. Less power, more gas than the V8. Not why I bought it. Drive shaft and steering uprights have turned to rust in 6 months. Handling package is a joke, bigger roll bar in an MG. They won't fix anything or take it back. What a Piece of Crap. Last time I buy anything chrysler.




mpil1
Dodge Dakota
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10/03/2002
21:54:27

RE: Piece of Crap
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Hmmm...I think you got stuck with a genuine lemon. I bought a 2002 SXT 4x4 5-speed. I run it kinda hard sometimes and I'm up to 4500 miles with no problems at all. Engine runs smoothly throughout the RPM range. There was a slight stumble when mashing the pedal from idle, but adjusting the throttle position sensor improved that. As for Tire and Handling package, you do get a stbilizer bar but theres no doubt the wheels and tires are nicer. AC problems sound strange. I wouldn't label Dodge as a piece of crap because of what you experience. If you got another one and it did the same thing, then I would. With that many things going wrong, looks like they really stuck you with a lemon.....and them not wanting to fix it...now that really sucks.



MightyDakSXT
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10/04/2002
10:14:16

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I've got over 8,000 miles on mine and I've not experienced any of what you're describing. When I'm not stomping on the go-pedal, I'm getting a better mileage than a V8. You have to remember, an SXT is NOT an R/T. Surface rust on a steel drive shaft is normal. You should have done some research before buying. You might have found something that better suited your needs and pocketbook.


2002 RC SXT, 3.9 Liter V6, 5-spd, 3.55 rear, Extang Tonneau, Autolite 3923 Plugs, Borg Warner Cap & Rotor, Quick D Intake, Modified V8 TB, Gibson Exhaust, Robert Shaw 180° T-stat, Custom Grille, JBA 9mm Wires, Clear Corners, Window Tint, Weatherflectors

Pistolero
Dodge Dakota
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10/04/2002
10:37:06

RE: Piece of Crap
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I can sympathize with you. There's nothing more frustrating than buying a new vehicle and getting a truckload of headaches delivered along with it. But, it does sound like your truck might be on a fast track for qualification under lemon law statutes. Keep on the dealer and Chrysler's regional rep for your area...call them direct and complain...firmly but without profanity. Above all, don't abuse your truck, and keep a record of EVERYTHING that happens...date and conditions at the time...accelerating, braking, idling, raining out, whatever.

I bought a new Dak Sport V6 last May, and I've only got about 2K miles on it so far (been driving another truck that I'm trying to sell most of the time), but I haven't had a single problem. The truck starts, runs, and stops great and is as quiet as a churchmouse. I like it so far. I know from experience that you take your chances with Ford and GM, too. Good luck!



LI Blackdak..
Dodge Dakota
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10/04/2002
11:44:14

RE: Piece of Crap
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one of my rotors went at 34,000. these things are crappy. SXT 4x4...lol why... 4x4+V6=lol

anybody that disagrees...BUY MY TRUCK PLEASE!!!!
u guys love em soo much
$13,500
2000 4x4 cc sport V6
35k



Kenny T
Dodge Dakota
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10/04/2002
14:20:52

RE: Piece of Crap
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I have a 2002 SXT CC 2WD 3.9 AUTO I love this thing best truck i,ve owned. although it does have a little stumble to it when it's at idle and when you get on the gas from a stop not all the time though hell i even tow my race car around with no problem 4200lbs!! I think i'll get my tps adjusted that should take care of the stumble.I think they all run alittle rough from what i've researched.. anyone disagree?



LI Blackdak..
Dodge Dakota
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10/04/2002
14:26:55

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YES THEY RUN ROUGH!!!! UGH
why why why do u guys think these are good trucks?? granted they are better then the other small trucks, but geez. they suck!!!V6s anyway



forexfour
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10/04/2002
15:11:45

RE: Piece of Crap
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I run My V6 Hard! I pound it into Sand dunes, I splash through Mud, I Load it to the gil with Oak wood once a year and drive it over 200 miles, I pull much larger vehicles that are stuck in the Mud or Dunes, I drive it 75 miles a day to work and back, I take it where ever I go and this thing is SOLID!
Anytime you buy new it will either work or not, yours is not. So go through the process to get it fixed or off it. It is a major hassel but it happens.

I fixed my only problem, TPS, myself since the dealer could not figure it out. My buddy has the same problem and will probably get a new one through the lemon law since the dealer refuses to change the TPS, since they can not figure out what is wrong. DRB scan does not detect any errors. What a hassel but you gotta do it.

By the way I will be abusing my truck allot this month, we'll see what it thinks about 50K miles.

FXF

Never late for a Tee time or wheelin with my buddies! Always ready for both!!!Forexfour's home page.

Src
Dodge Dakota
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10/04/2002
15:13:31

RE: Piece of Crap
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I have an 87 4x4 with *************miles. runs great. Anything old is better.Sorry to here your problems.



IntenseDak39
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10/04/2002
16:02:40

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wow Ll Blackdak... you preach about how bad your truck "sucks" and then you ask people to pay $13,500 for it. Nice sells pitch!

--"did you mean the charger, because that's got a hemi, too!"
98 Dakota Sport V6: 8.95@77.9 mph (1/8th)
99 Oldsmobile Alero GL3 V6: xx@xx mph

LI Blackdak..
Dodge Dakota
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10/04/2002
21:08:18

RE: Piece of Crap
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13,500 is a good price!!
besides if i could use it for what its for and i had more money for gas i would like it. i just makes no sense for me.



Gooberlog
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10/06/2002
23:47:00

RE: Piece of Crap
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Did i get rapped?! I bought my 2001 Club cab sport 2wheel drive 3.9V6 For $20,500 sticker price. It came with a tape player, sliding rear window, 16X8"wheels, fog lights, overhead and floor console, folding middle bench seat with console, and a V6 that wants to be a V8. i have no power options and i paid $20,500 before tax, tags, intrest etc. does this sound about right????
Thanks,
Gooberlog



Pistolero
Dodge Dakota
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10/07/2002
00:37:26

RE: Piece of Crap
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Are you saying that you paid the sticker price for your truck? If that's so, then you probably didn't get the best deal that you could have. My '02 Sport+ V6 RC has the same equipment that you listed, plus CD, power steering/brakes/windows/mirrors/locks, tilt, cruise, and stickered at just over $19K after the Chrysler package discounts. I bought it at just over $15K.



Cow
Dodge Dakota
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10/07/2002
00:58:23

RE: Piece of Crap
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I paid 9999 for my 1999 RC 3.9 a few months ago and it runs great. Power everything, sun roof, cd changer and it just turned 40,000 miles. I am jonsen for a jeep wranger so I may drive around to see if anyone wants to take a trade in.



IntenseDak39
*GenIII*
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10/07/2002
12:09:10

RE: Piece of Crap
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Ll Blackdak, i know thats a good price, its just that you talk about how your truck sucks and then you want people to buy it...

believe me... i wanted a 4x4 dak but the dealer wouldnt take mine back... they noticed the nitrous solenoids. My turbo is almost done... wanna trade? j/k

--"did you mean the charger, because that's got a hemi, too!"
98 Dakota Sport V6: 8.95@77.9 mph (1/8th)
99 Oldsmobile Alero GL3 V6: xx@xx mph

Drew
Dodge Dakota
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10/07/2002
12:56:49

RE: Piece of Crap
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How in the world can you call a dakota a piece of crap???? Thats what pissed off mustang owner says when he's watchin my tailights leave him in the dust. My truck is a '92 reg cab sport with the 3.9 auto. My friends like to buy vehicles that leave sitting in the midas waiting room(i.e. Ford Rangers, mustangs,Chevy s-10's the listy goes on...). This truck has no engine modifications and it will still out last most vehicles out there. These trucks may run rough and have an occasional problem or two but they are TRUCKS! Period they were made to take a beating (towing,racing,or commuting). I would never even think of getting rid of my dak!(except for maybe a newer one!)



DakotaTC
Dodge Dakota
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10/07/2002
12:59:33

RE: Piece of Crap
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You must have a lemon for sure - I have a '98 Sport, 3.9L V6 5spd with 130,000 miles on it, every one of which I've driven. I've never experienced any out of the ordinary repairs on the truck considering the mileage, and I'd buy another in a heartbeat!

Sorry for your woes, do insist on getting action from Chrysler Corporation. I'd bet they can afford the replacement cost more than you can.



LI Blackdak..
Dodge Dakota
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10/07/2002
13:16:46

RE: Piece of Crap
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i never had a problem..cept with the brakes. the truck just doesnt suite my purpose. i need a more fuel efficient car. ands the engine just sounds bad in general

Hey i got a 4x4 v6 I wanna go fast!!!! i want to go as fast as an R/T. Can anyone help????




alex
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10/07/2002
13:43:04

RE: Piece of Crap
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No, nobody can help. You are helpless. Bitch.



IntenseDak39
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10/07/2002
14:08:45

RE: Piece of Crap
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LMAO!!!!!!

good call alex!

--"did you mean the charger, because that's got a hemi, too!"
98 Dakota Sport V6: 8.95@77.9 mph (1/8th)
99 Oldsmobile Alero GL3 V6: xx@xx mph

Drew
Dodge Dakota
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10/08/2002
11:54:21

RE: Piece of Crap
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I think that the best places to find performance parts for the 3.9 are actually the sites that have links posted on this website.
And by the way, these V6's are damn good motors they can be as fast as an r/t. If they can make a 10 sec honda out of a 150 hp 4 cyl then you can get r/t-like V6 dak. It really just depends on how much work,time, and money you want to put into it.



Ben
Dodge Dakota
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11/12/2002
00:13:02

RE: Piece of Crap
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Try this website to see if your truck is a lemon: http://www.carfax.com/cfm/general_check.cfm?partner=car_8

Ben



LI BlackdkRSX
Dodge Dakota
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11/12/2002
01:29:37

RE: Piece of Crap
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"V6's are damn good motors"
how so????
i can't think of any reason why this V6 isnt one of the worst possible engines available in a new car. the only other onw that is close to as bad is the chevy 4.3 and that is more powerful anyway.
rough running, doesn't like to rev high, horrible gas mileage, sub par hp and torque output, sounds bad, high emissions, what is good about this engine???? dont say that its good to modify, becuase that means it comes from the factory way under its potential output. crap



motodirt33
Dodge Dakota
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11/13/2002
20:29:42

RE: Piece of Crap
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I have a 1997 3.9 v6, has been a good truck, but I do agree that the gas mileage is very poor for a 6. I put the autolites and the 180 degree thermostat in, would recomend that to anyone. Really helped my truck out with very little money, never ran better. I also have a 1999 Jeep grand cherokee with a 4.0 inline 6. I am very happy with it also, might have a little bit more torque than the Dakota. It would be interesting for Dodge to offer that engine in the Dakota.



mad42
Dodge Dakota
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11/18/2002
20:03:41

RE: Piece of Crap
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MightyDak- For your information I bought this thing with cash. If crysler had mentioned the problems in their sales brochures I would have looked for something else. I could have got the V8 but this was supposed to be better mileage. Obviously does not have the power (according to their bogus HP charts) but I expect to be able to drive on the highway without downshifting for every hill when unloaded. I am not interested in a gas hog 5.9L or racing it. It is a truck.
The idea that the suspension and driveshaft have absolutely no protection from rust is pretty stupid. What does it cost for a spraycan of paint?
Guess I am spoiled by the quality of the foreign makes that do not use antiquated 30 year old engine designs. I am sure there are people that like these things. People still like Model A's also.




mpil1
GenIII
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11/18/2002
20:54:17

RE: Piece of Crap
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Ummm, whatever......I still like my truck. It certainly gets the job done and is one fine looking vehicle (as are most daks out there!).

Mpil1
'02 SXT CC, 3.9L, 5-spd, 4x4...Not Enough Mods Yet!!! Next spring and summer will be busy!!

2slow2go
Dodge Dakota
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11/19/2002
10:30:17

RE: Piece of Crap
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To MAD42...
I can't agree with you more on the power of the V6 dakota.
Other than the power I think my truck is the bomb, 2001 Dodge Dakota, 4X4, automatic, QC, Sport. It's reliable, looks awsome (compared to other pick-ups on the market), rides great and I haven't had any problems to mention. I will buy another Dakota again, except I'll get the V8.

A little V6 story;
Driving through the Adirondacks this summer with my Dakota, there's a part of the highway where it goes from two lanes to three, due to the large incline on the highway this extra lane is used for big rigs that have to use their lower gears to make it up the hill. Well to make a long story short, the big heavy rigs where actually passing me going up the hill, I had the pedal to the floor triing to get up that hill.
"THAT HAD TO BE ONE OF THE MOST EMBARRESING DRIVING MOMENTS I'VE EVER HAD".

Agian, I'll say though the lack of power is definately compisated by the looks and reliablity of my truck.



Sasquatch
Dodge Dakota
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11/19/2002
10:58:10

RE: Piece of Crap
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Come on...

What did you expect? You have one of the heaviest Dakotas available, maybe the SLT weighs more... But you have that combined with the smallest engine option in that model and expect to actually beat a big rig up a hill? They also have momentum in their favor, but still...

Don't buy the heavier 4x4, the slower auto, or the heavier QC and the smallest available eninge if you want to even maintain speed up a hill.

I have a 2000 RC 5 spd V6. I can pass most vehicles going uphill. In most cases I can accelerate going uphill. Keep in mind thats in overdrive. The engine is not underpowered, you guys just have it over burdened, sorry. It is awesome in a RC.



Pistolero
Dodge Dakota
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11/19/2002
11:18:34

RE: Piece of Crap
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I've got a 2002 RC V6 Sport +. Mine is an automatic...I got tired of shifting for the last 30 years. I rarely use the OD...I just click it off every time that I get into the truck, highway or not. It'll do OK under these conditions, but I wouldn't exactly qualify it as "awesome"...LOL...the V6 has been the biggest, and about the only, real disappointment that I've had with my truck. I've darn near had grannies on those electric grocery scooters pass me on the sidewalk. I wake up every morning and hope that the V8 fairy might have come, but she hasn't yet. Oh, well...



loon
Dodge Dakota
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11/19/2002
11:41:23

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V6s do suck, i may love my dak but, an inline 6 with more torque and smoother sounds wouldn't be a bad thing. V6s only come in cars today because people in the 60s thought v6s were better because thier v8s kicked butt. V6s do take up less space but i think the 4.0 inline 6 from a wrangler(or a more modern version of it)would fit in my dakota.



LI Blackdakk
Dodge Dakota
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11/19/2002
12:13:36

RE: Piece of Crap
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wait...hold on a second....one of you is saying that big rigs were passing you up a hill. Um are sure you dont have an I4 QC 4x4??? maybe they slipped it in w/o telling you cause...bahahahahahaahaa

ok Ive complained about this truck being slow before, but it will still do 90+ uphill and there is no way in hell any big rig is going to pass me (unless i let it) and it can't be the added weight of the QC as compared to my CC because i had my truck loaded up to 6300 lbs including passengers and it was still moving pretty well. piece of crap yes, but wow



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