One problem related to power train driveline has been reported for the 2003 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I have a terrible launch shudder in the drive line of my truck, which the dealer has been unable to repair. I bought the truck sept 03 and returned it to the dealer may 04 with 2027 miles on it. The truck would shake at approximately 20 mph on a hard acceleration the dealer said he went back to the dealer several more times for the same complaint but they couldn't duplicate the problem so there was no fix. Finally, on July 25, 2005, at 9028 miles a service tech went for a ride with me and felt the shudder. The dealership replaced the driveshaft and said the vehicle was fixed. I drove off the dealer parking lot and the shudder started as soon as I hit the public street. I drove right back into the dealership and told them the problem hasn't been corrected. The dealer has since removed and reinstalled the exhaust system, removed and replaced 2 bearing in the rear end, an entire rear axle assembly and the engine motor mounts. None of these have worked. Jeff kosiba, from Chrysler engineering, company phn# 313-493-3359, called the dealer and told him that the rear brakes were hanging up at will and that the following should be removed and replaced: the rear brake hubs, brake pads, calipers and rotors. This repair hasn't been completed as of this date. Please investigate ASAP, this is a dangerous vehicle.