One problem related to engine exhaust system has been reported for the 2000 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Bolts broke on exhaust manifold shield and shield fell between steering shaft and motor, causing steering to jam in straight ahead position on highway. Could not pull over to breakdown lane to avoid other traffic. Bolts broke from heat stress I imagine, not too good a thing to happen on a highway but would have been worst in city if I could not steer away from pedistrians. Just cheap undersized bolts that break. Checked the other side and found one broke there too. Bolts are too small to hold the manifolds in place after they wear with age.