The contact owns a 1997 Dodge Dakota. The vehicle has Continental tires. While driving 65 mph, the tread from one of the tires began to strike the door and front fender of the vehicle before completely separating from the tire. The remainder of the tires remained inflated. The contact did not drive or any potholes or other road hazards to cause the failure. He took the tire back to the store from where it was purchased and was informed that it was defective. The tire was replaced for free. The tire size, tire line, and remaining tread depth were unknown. The failure mileage was 90,408. Updated 03/17/09. The consumer believed the tire was defective. Updated 03/17/09.

- Livermore, CA, USA

1997 Dodge Dakota club cab 2 wd pickup had excessive tire wear at 25,000 miles so all tires replaced. Tires had been rotated every 7,000 mi. After tire replaced took to Dodge dealer for front end alignment. Dealer refused because they said front ball joints needed replaced costing $900. When asked if this was unusual dealer said no and that ball joints could wear out in 10,000 miles. I called daimler Chrysler to complain and they refused my request for assistance saying no problems of this type have been reported. The truck was never driven off road, never involved in an accident, only driven to work and home within 40 miles of my home. Truck was never abused and I feel the ball joints (and tires) should not have worn out in this small amount of time. I am an engineer and believe there is a design or manufacturing problem that led to this premature failure. I have continued to drive the truck without replacing the ball joints yet since no one has told me there is any safety reason not to. The truck drives fine, straight, and easy.

- Morton, IL, USA

Front tires excessively worn on outside edges. Driver's side front tire also excessively worn on inner edge. Passenger side front tire slightly worn on inner edge. All of which may cause a tire blowout. Same problem on the 1991 Dakota.

- Holiday, UT, USA

Consumer complaining that Dodge manufacturer is putting regular vehicle tires on their trucks. Consumer confronted Dodge manufacturer, but manufacturer refused to comment. Dealer notified.

- Elyria, OH, USA