Four problems related to engine cooling system have been reported for the 2000 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Heater core in Dodge Dakotas. The heater core in Dodge Dakotas seems to be a really big issue with thousands of people complaining about the defective part. With a bad heater core, anti-freeze is expelled through the ac vents as a steam which is inhaled by the drivers and passengers. Inhaling antifreeze can have many results: antifreeze fumes can cause eye irritation and upper-respiratory irritation. Additionally, inhaled fumes, particularly if from a mist, can cause breathing difficulties, headaches, drowsiness, blurred vision, irregular eye movements, nausea and vomiting. Material safety data sheets show that repeated inhalation of antifreeze fumes may affect the central nervous system. Coma may occur if the inhaled antifreeze fumes were in mist form. Dodge really needs to make a recall on these faulty heater cores. I have read many forums where at least 5 heater cores have been replaced within 50,000 miles. That is way to frequent for just common wear and tear. It is expensive for the consumers to fix and has some bad health related issues from inhaling the antifreeze caused by this faulty part.
Timing cover housing that also houses water pump and thermostat, has poor casting quality where coolant enters housing from lower radiator hose resulting in erosion of material and ultimately leaks out radiator fluid. After speaking with Chrysler corporate, they are not willing to furnish pars for repair or labor to complete repairs. Even with having information that an average of 24 parts per week across u. S. Are being ordered and replaced they are not willing to act upon this problem. I feel that I should not be responsible for repairs that need to be made due to poor product quality for engine components that are essentially non-consumable.
Failure of upper ball joint. 2000 Dodge Dakota. Discovered during a tire purchase. Having fixed at dealership. Wear is premature.
Engine coolant temperature sensor housing gasket leaking. Factory installed. Bolts found loose.