2004 Dodge Dakota Consumer Discussions

Dodge Dakota Suspension and Axles

Re: 2004 Dodge Dakota Snapping/Clunking in front end [jfunston]

Written by: slickwilliedj on Sep 30, 2009 03:08 PM

inspect the lower and upper ball joints as well as the outer tie rods theses are know problem areas and can create the snap popping noise you describe. good luck if you replace the ball joints i would recommend using after market brand moog vs mopar.. Read More...

Dodge Dakota – Water in the Rear Differential

Written by: GrayDak on Dec 09, 2008 00:19 PM

I have a 2004 Dodge Dakota extended cab 4X4, V8. I purchased it new. To make a long story short I have had my Dakota to two different dealerships and both have found water in my rear differential. Both dealerships also claim it is a “maintenance issue”. I believe it is a design or manufacturing defect that should be covered under the power train warranty. I know when ... Read More...

Dodge Dakota Transmission Problems

Difficulty shifting 2nd to 3rd

Written by: watsonl6251 on Jul 23, 2009 08:27 PM

Hi all - first post. Couple weeks ago my 2004 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab, 4WD, v8, auth started having difficulty shifting 2nd to 3rd. This happens only occasionally, some days not at all, some days a number of times throughout the day. Symptoms are you're in 2nd gear for what sometimes seems like a fraction too long, then a hard, sudden, jolting shift to 3rd. Took it into ... Read More...

Dodge Dakota Suspension and Axles

2004 Dodge Dakota Snapping/Clunking in front end

Written by: jfunston on Jun 02, 2009 09:08 PM

We have a 2004 Dodge Dakota, and have been getting a snapping sound in the front-end, sounds like right around the wheel. We've had it in to a mechanic, and they can't seem to find a problem. We've read about the balljoint problem with previous years, does this affect 04's? Any other suggestions what it might be? It started out only when I was making turns, or go over ... Read More...

Dodge Dakota Climate Control

Re: 2004 Dodge Dakota AC [jfunston]

Written by: terrys2 on May 10, 2009 02:55 PM

Yes the fan should come on when the control is set to AC or defrost. My guess is a bad fan if you have replaced the fuse & relay. Hot wiring will tell you if it works or not. If the fan works you may have a wiring problem. The compressor will cycle on & off depending on a number of variables. Get a thermometer with a 6" or so long probe and put it in the dash vent. Again there are ... Read More...

Re: 2004 Dodge Dakota AC [bpeebles]

Written by: jfunston on May 10, 2009 02:20 PM

Just wanted to confirm. The electric fan, which is located just behind the rad/condensor - should run at all times when the AC is on? It hasn't come on at all. I replaced the fuse, and relay (the old relay looked burned), but it still doesn't come on at all. As well, regarding the motor/clutch- it kicks on and off at least once a minute, or less- is that frequency normal? ... Read More...

Re: 2004 Dodge Dakota AC [texdodge]

Written by: terrys2 on May 09, 2009 09:18 AM

Running the AC generates heat which must be removed through the condenser and the radiator. If you have a new condenser it should be ok. Did you check the radiator/condenser area to be sure it is clear of bugs, leaves or anything else that can block the air flow? Id the factory fan shroud all there and in place? Does the fan run when the AC is on? If not check the fuse and ... Read More...

Re: 2004 Dodge Dakota AC [jfunston]

Written by: bpeebles on May 08, 2009 07:37 PM

It is normal for the AC compressor clutch to kick in and out based on the measurements from the pressure-sensors within the AC system. If I recall correctly, when the LOW pressure sensor senses the pressure get too high, the AC clutch disenguages the compressor. In addition to the obvious AC settings, there are some "defrost" settings which also turn on the AC ... Read More...

Dodge Dakota Paint issues

2004 Dodge Dakota Bumpers

Written by: 1205 on May 08, 2009 02:42 PM

I have a 2004 Dodge Dakota with a metal painted rear bumper. Within four years it is peeling and rusting and looks like heck. I maintain the truck and keep it in good clean condition. Is this typical Dodge? I would think it would hold out longer. Anyone else have the same issues? Read More...

Dodge Dakota Climate Control

Re: 2004 Dodge Dakota AC [jfunston]

Written by: texdodge on May 08, 2009 08:51 AM

Hello I have a 98 Dakota 4 Cyl. and I just repaired the A/C and now I am overheating at stop lights and in traffic. Any help would be appreciated. I haven't had the A/C running for about 9 years but I replaced the Evaporator and Condenser about 3 days ago. Maybe it is related? HELP? Read More...