One problem related to steering rack and pinion has been reported for the 2003 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My truck all of the sudden when driving the night before was unable to turn to the right (very difficult. . No proper steering to the right). To the left it was fine. It continued to have the problem when I tried driving again today. I took it to the Dodge dealership today (next morning) and they told me the truck needed a new power steering pump, rack, & pinion. The vehicle is only 3 years old with just over 50,000 miles on it. . . It has been extremely well taken care of since purchasing it from Dodge dealer last fall. This is the 2nd major repair in the last few months (I just had a rear seal or something like that replaced as well). As of right now the truck is still at the dealership until I decide what to do. They say it is not covered under any warranties for this issue or any recalls. It is very upsetting that this new of a vehicle have such major issues already.