Three problems related to manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I own a 1997 Dodge Dakota slt. The engine is a 5. 2 v8 with only 45,000 miles my complaint started around 40,000 miles. I am getting a severe spark knock and a tremendous oil consumption 2. 5 quarts every two hundred miles. They installed faulty engine intake manifold plenum pan gaskets. Through my extensive research there have been countless complaints on this. I was driving down the highway and my check engine light came on and checked my gauges I had a complete loss of oil pressure. Luckily no one was behind me because my engine stalled!!! the Dodge dealer told me this is very common, so why are they not taking responsibility?.
Consumer was replacing upper and lower ball joints every 35,000 miles. Also, consumer replaced the idler arm. Consumer contacted the dealer, who informed consumer that they will not warranty the suspension parts. Provide further details. The consumer stated the manifold plenum gasket was leaking oil into the intake. The consumer replaced the gasket himself.
Head of a bolt broke from base of engine manifold. Consumer noticed this while drying some parts on engine. Broken piece were not leaking anything yet. Contacted dealer, and dealer was not willing to do anything because it was not under warranty.