Seven problems related to brake disc have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I had new front rotors put on my truck at 72,116 miles per Dodge's request. Noticed rubbing when applied brake when going up and down hills. Dodge said they need to break in that condition would improve. August 5, 2000 burning smell coming in through vents as I approached a stop sign the vehicle would not stop and then vehicle veered to one side. Left front was smoking and very hot. I was out of state at the time and the service person said that the brakes weren't installed correctly that the front left was warped and needed replacing. Norwood Dodge inspected it and said all was ok. Received a safety recall 891or892 regarding fuel and brake lines rubbing on chasis. Brought vehicle in to get fixed. Brakes did not work correctly since then. While doing 65mph and on the gas all of a sudden the brakes locked up out of the blue and I skidded about 40'. Heard a loud noise and something break under the truck. I think the sudden stop destroyed the transmission or differential (which was worked on the day before) had to have vehicle towed. The brake system is an ongoing problem I have had the vehicle in for brake problems on 12 different occurances and counting. At present vehicle is out of commission and I will not drive even if they say they fixed it. I almost killed myself and others not once but twice due to brakes not working and brakes locking up while on the gas. Dealer has no clue what is wrong.
The brake rotors/pads and shoes failed at 15,000 miles. Had to have them replaced. Took vehicle to dealer & had mechanic check the brakes.
The vehicle is at 40,000 miles and had 4 sets of brake rotors and calipers replaced on the front wheels, caused extended stopping distance. Dealer cannot determine problem.
No summary listed for abov evehicle.
I am a canadian Dodge truck owner that feels that your organization may wish to keep tabs on a possible problem with the front disc brakes on the 1997, Dakota. I've had 3 sets of rotors and pads intalled now and still get squealing grinding and grabbing. I think there is more to problem than Chrysler leads me to believe.
Brakes make metallic noise---had rotors turned and new pads installed, no change--mechanic can find no reason for noise. Happens only after vehicle driven for a few miles. When brake is disengaged a small jolt is felt moments after.
Owner has to change pads and rotors too many times with barely any mileage on the vehicle.