Three problems related to ball joint have been reported for the 2000 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The ball joints in 2000 Dakotas were recalled on only the 4x4 models. I have a 2000 with 2 wheels drive. The manufacturer sent out a letter saying it was recalled, inspected it and said they were fine. That was at 50,000 miles. Now at 99,000 the ball joint disconnected from its unit, causing me to almost crash into a telephone pole. Manufacturer will not pay for towing to get seen, and will only replace the ball joint. Most of the suspension parts on the side of the defective ball joint were damaged.
Frequent popping feeling in the steering wheel coming from front suspension. Always relates to front suspension up/down movement. Several garages have inspected, but cannot locate problem. Suspect problem has to do with early sign of ball joint failure. Dealer admits history front suspension and ball joint problems in this model.
Vehicle was three years old when the right ball joint had to be replaced. The consumer heard a popping noise from the front of the vehicle, which alerted him of a problem.