15 problems related to brake hoses, lines/piping, and fittings have been reported for the 1998 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
This car has been a safety nightmare. From steel brake lines rusting through (and the vehicle losing it brakes), to upper ball joints almost separating to steering wheel drive shafts where the u-joints almost separated. These are not items that should fail like this. I spent part of my career looking after global product liability for cummins engine and I am stunned at the poor quality Chrysler has used in critical components.
While driving a combine was approaching in on coming lane taking up part of my lane, applied brakes and pedal hit the floor (no brakes). I had to go off road to avoid accident. Upon inspection found brake lines rusted through. Repaired and while bleeding lines had another rusted area rupture due to rust ( 4 areas so far). Fearful to drive until all lines replaced. . . . . . But too costly!.
Approaching stop light when hydraulic brake lines suddenly and completely ruptured causing a condition of no brakes and impact with vehicle in front of me.
1998 Dakota brake line (steel) rusted through and ruptured rresulting in catastrophic brake failure (right front). The dealer blames the failure on road conditions in western virginia (salt). The truck has only 80000 miles.
Brake line rusted through.
The contact owns a 1998 Dodge Dakota. The contact started the vehicle and the brake pedal extended to the floor. The vehicle coasted across the parking lot before the contact could apply the emergency brake. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic and they stated that the brake lines were corroded and needed to be replaced. The mechanic replaced at least three lines and informed the contact that others may need to be replaced at a later date. The failure and current mileages were 89,249. Updated 09/15/08 update 09/24/08.
The contact owns a 1998 Dodge Dakota. While decelerating at 3 mph the brakes failed. The brake line was completely covered with rust and corroded. The dealer stated that the rust was a natural phenomenon and they are not responsible for the repairs. The current and failure mileages were 107,000. Updated 12/12/2007 updated 12/12/07.
While attempting to slow down when approaching a red light, the main brake line running from the front to the rear broke when the brake pedal was depressed. This resulted in extended stopping distance. The consumer crossed a red light, but reached the other side before oncoming traffic.
When the vehicle was in reverse and the consumer applied the brakes, the brake pedal exceeded to the floor without warning. The dealer stated that the brake hose failed. The brake line was positioned up against the moving suspension part that wore a hole in the brake line.
Rear brake line rubber flex tube casing rubbed against transmission. This caused brake fluid to leak out from hole that was created. Had taken vehicle to dealership, and mechanic has inspected the problem, but had no resolution.
This model was recalled due to the rear brakes failing in such a way. I believe that it should be recalled again but for the front brakes. The brake line was rubbing against the axle causing it to eventually break. In the area I was traveling I could have been seriously injured if truck was at a higher speed. Of course the dealer feels no remorse and does not care about the safety of it's customer's. It's funny how they are wanting to speak with you while you purchase it, but afterwards they no nothing about the truck and it was not their fault. I'm still waiting for the part and it is 9-18-01. Seems the part is hard to find.
The vehicle experienced failure of the recall (00v-193) component prior to recall notification, resulting in vehicle collision due to loss of braking ability.
Recall 00v193 wasn't thoroughly completed with the recall letter consumer received, customer dissatisfied.
Brake line which runs against the vent hose for the rear differential has caused a hole through the brake line, resulting in loss of brakes.
Right rear brake line is rubbing on the frame due to poor location causing the line to wear. Nlm.