52 problems related to front suspension upper ball joint have been reported for the 1998 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The upper ball joints were replaced under warranty at approximately 30,000 miles. They were making a thumping noise when simultaneously turning a corner and going over a bump. The problem reappeared and the ball joints were replaced again approximately 25,000 miles later with aftermarket units. Upon close examination of the oe units there was excessive play and the grease was hard.
Upper ball joint failure.
Consumer noticed front tire on Dakota was having alignment problems due to front ball joints. The technician informed the consumer that the front ball joints were bad and needed to be replaced.
Replaced the two upper ball joints,shocks,and tires on my 1998 Dodge Dakota with 61,000 miles on it.
Ball joints have begun to fail. . Only 64,000 miles on vehicle. . . 57,000 at the time problem started. . . Know there is a recalll for 2000 and higher models. . . But fear this is a bigger problem than known in earlier models as well. . . . Dealer will fix, but not pay, and have no explanation as to why there is such an early failure. . . . . Also have noticed from your site that there were other recalls. . . . Did not know of these. . . Will try to have dealer fix these. . . . . . And check on my 4 ball joints.
Premature wear on left ball joints for 1998 Dodge Dakota 2wd.
Upper ball joint premature wear.
Premature failure of right and left upper ball joints.
Seen the cbs news about upper ball joints on Dodge Dakota on 12/18/03. Had my left side ball joints replaced on 7/15/02 and my right side ball joints replaced on 8/5/03. Pretty close to $500 to have replaced.
My upper ball joints had to be replaced in my 1998 Dodge Dakota at 56,000 miles. Why are the 98 and 99 Dodge Dakota's not being covered under the same recall. That is un-acceptable as they have the exact same ball joint in them.
Consumer stated upper ball joints wore out prematurely. The protective coating broke, which allowed dirt onto the ball joints. . . . . . . Also, dealer replaced wheel bearing, and performed throttle body service.
At any speed vehicle was making a clicking sound when turning corners and wearing out tires. The last time consumer replaced a set of tires it was discovered that the upper ball joints had unusual wear. Consumer claimed that he was an engineer, and that there was no way that one could lubricate the upper ball joints.
Front ball joint early failure on 1998 Dakota. Front upper ball joints are experincing early failures. Same suspension components as durango.
While traveling on the highway without prior warning the right control arm bolt became loose. The dealership is aware of the problem. Nlm consumer compalined of a noise on numerous occasions before the incident occured.
Consumer wants to know why the ball joint recall was not expanded to include 1998 Dodge Dakotas.
Dodge Dakota 1998 consumer replaced ball joints. The consumer replaced the upper ball joints at 31000 miles and both the upper and lower ball joints at 43000 miles. The technician indicated that the lack of grease fittings on the original design created and excessive wear problem.
The vehicle's upper ball joints failed. Please provide any additional information.