The contact owns a 1999 Dodge Dakota. The contact stated that the cable that holds the spare tire broke causing the tire to fall off while driving 25 mph. The bracket that was connected to the cable has excessive rust which also caused it to break. The contact called the manufacturer regarding the failure and the manufacturer stated that there were no recalls and he would be responsible for the repairs. The contact stated that the failure could potentially cause a major crash to occur. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was 96,000.

- Wolcott, CT, USA

Faulty weld at front lower control arm[rt side] control arm weld failed from inadequate penetration nearly resulting in loss of wheel and crash. No evidence of any damage to any other part of vehicle to cause weld failure.

- Spfd, MO, USA

Dodge Dakota 1999 ball joints failed and had to be replaced. Consumer wants to know why wouldn't a recall be issued on the 98 -99 not just the 2000-2005 models. The consumer stated that the manifold bolts snapped off in the engine compartment and they needed to be removed.

- Washington, DC, USA

Upon trying to trade in this vehicle, I was informed that it had been repainted. The dealership informs that that it was a factory defect. However, the value of the vehicle has decreased greatly due to this. I was offered $7,000 as a trade in value. The dealer would like to repaint, but I feel they should replace. No safety defect listed in summary.

- Marietta, GA, USA

When I originally bought the Dakota R/T, I was told that I could tow up to 6400lbs. Just recently Chrysler has announed that towing more than 2000lbs will void our warranty. The R/T is meant to be a fun truck to drive, but many of us also bought it for the ability to work as well as play. Many of us also bought the heavy duty service group and the tow package from Dodge as well. That all amounts to nothing now, since it can not tow more than what the bumber can handle. I belong to a mailing list of 300 other R/T drivers and so far all they have heard (after calling Chrysler's customer service) is that chrylser may pay us back for the tow package and heavy duty service group. That is truly unacceptable since we bought this truck for working and now it can barely tow a good sized trailer. All the documentation that I have read says that the Dakota R/T can tow 6400lbs. I would like to see if there is anything that you guys can do to help us out. Thank you very much. Tetsuo1329@aol.com

- Acworth, GA, USA