Five problems related to differential unit have been reported for the 2003 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The rear end in my 2003 Dodge ram burned up. I first noticed a burning smell like propane gas which started to make me and the family sick. Pulled over to the side of the road found nothing. Then after driving 20 minutes longer the abs light came on. Next I observed orange sparks coming from the back of the truck. Pulled over again and climbed under truck and burnt my arm instantly when touching the rear pumpkin. Sat on the side of the road for 3 hours to let cool down. Then drove to the dealer 30 miles away. Engine light came on and speedometer gauge was jumping all over the place. Truck was also shifting improperly. Dealer said the rear got so hot that it melted the rear abs sensor and the speedometer sensor.
We have had the rear end of our 2003 Dodge ram 1500 replaced in our vehicle three times in the 2 years. The ring and pinion was shattered the first time we took it in. The replacement parts did not solve the problem and had to be replaced again in may 05. We had to pay 219. 00 and again the rear end went out in Aug 05.
I just had my 2003 Dodge ram quad cab 1500 series truck in the dealership for its 30,000 miles service and the dealership told me that they found the differential locking clip had fallen off and had done damage to the inside of my rear. They said that I was very lucky that they found it now since it could have cased a serious accident if it the rear had locked up at highway speeds. I have done some homework on this issue and have seen that there is a very high failure rate on this problem. I am very concerned as I do a lot of towing with my camper and family. I have also seen where there has been a very high failure rate on the rear axles breaking. My dealership did not replace my rear differential but had rebuilt it. I wanted a new one but they told me it was an isolated incident and haven't heard of many differentials failing. What can your organization do to help me?.
The vehicle's ball joint had to be replaced at 24,000 miles. The rear limited slip differential fluid needed to be replaced.
My 03 Dakota's axle air breather came loose due to a faulty mounting clip. As a result the cap at the end of the tube, which is supposed to prevent water (due to submerging or splases from riding in the rain) became inverted and served as a reservoir to suck up water into the axle. Dodge claims this is impossible without submersion. This truck has never been in more than a few inches of rain water from the street.