Three problems related to ignition have been reported for the 2001 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
An existing NHTSA recall, 06v039000, exists for 2006 Dodge Dakotas. "static can disable headlamps, turn signals, & windshield wipers". I have a 2001 Dakota with the same issue. It happen 2-5 times per year. Everything works again if I cycle the ignition, but that 's small comfort if the headlights go out @ 75 mph. Dodge has refused to fix it for free, saying that it only applies to 2006. If it is a safety issue for a 2006, then it is a safety risk for 2001 too. The known fix is to "re-flash" the dash, which I assume means to reprogram the dash control processor.
40,000 miles transmission problems. Would not shift correctly from first to second. 45,000 miles iginition problems. Short in the ignition, car would do nothing. Not start, no lights, nothing. 50,000 miles and the ball joints went out. I was told by two different mechanics at the Dodge dealership that this was a problem with Dakota's and durangos and that the ball joints used on those two cars were very weak and not strong enough to handle the vehicle.
The check engine / mil (malfunction ignition light) comes on & the truck runs rough & the gas mileage goes down to half the normal amount. The 1st time was 11 months after purchase & has happened approx. Every 3 to 4 months since. The spark plugs have been replaced after finding 1 cracked, the right side head was replaced due to warping & the #1 fuel injector replaced.