Five problems related to check engine light on have been reported for the 2003 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
On June 5, 2006 the engine light came on in our 2003 Dodge Dakota (approx. 25,500 miles). We took it to the Dodge dealership and they replaced a hose for the fuel line at a cost of approx. $250. On June 7, 2006 the engine light again came on and Dodge said an O2 sensor needed to be replaced (at a cost to us of approx. $300). With in the next 3 weeks our Dodge was in the shop 2 more times (for a total of 4 items in a month) due to the engine light coming on. The last time they told us the O2 sensor that was replaced was faulty and was the problem. This concerns me as the car was 5 weeks over the 3 year warranty so nothing was covered and the service we received at Dodge was the worst I have ever received.
Various problems with 2003 Dodge Dakota. There were backfires at times, the pedal would barely move at stop signs, when backing out, the vehicle would stay in second gear for a long period of time and the consumer would have to let off of the gas pedal then shift into high gear, sometimes the vehicle wouldn't shift into overdrive, then as soon as it started to misfire, the vehicle would drop to overdrive, the cruise control was inoperative, there was a whine and or howl in the rear differential around 50 mph, the engine light would never come on, sometimes the shift lever would be placed in park and the vehicle would start, at times when shifting to reverse or drive, the vehicle would not move and the would have to be jerked around on the shift lever, the heater controls were inoperative, and there were noises when the lights on the radio were turned on. The valve on the transmission was change and helped the vehicle, but sometimes when the vehicle was shifted up or down in gear it would be a problem.
Check engine light came on, engine locked up with only 665 miles. Oil pressure gauge also went to zero.
Two weeks after purchasing the vehicle and upon making a right turn there was a loss of power. Vehicle continued to run, but the vehicle would not move. This has happened four times. Also, check engine light illuminateed, and evaporation leaked. Took vehicle to the dealer, but problem recurred.
Transmission will not shift from 2nd to 3rd gear when climbing grades. Also truck will stall out with no warning or check engine lights.