Four problems related to brake disc pads have been reported for the 2004 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While driving, heard clunking noise that seemed to come from under the vehicle. The outside of the vehicle appeared normal, including the wheels. I checked under hood and under front end and found nothing broken, missing or leaking and continued driving. The left front wheel later fell off with all studs sheared off. Also, one lug nut on the right front wheel was missing and several others were found to be loose, with several studs cracked. Both wheels had been properly installed and tighten some months earlier. To correct, the left front wheel was replaced. All studs on both front wheels and all lug nuts were replaced. Also, the front brake rotors and pads were replaced because the vehicle fell onto the left front rotor.
At 20k my 2004 Dakota truck needs new brakes and rotors. Dealership said they are blue from getting too hot. My 1999 Dakota just had new brakes and rotors and still had plenty of pad on them at 84k.
Rotors warped / damaged. Brake rotors are severely warped. Brake pads have more than 35% life and the dealership cannot give any explanation why the rotors are damaged. I called Dodge corporation customer service and they will not help. Vehicle maintained only at Dodge dealerships and all service has been performed according to Dodge recommendation since purchased new.
Here's what I submitted to the Dodge website: last night I returned from my Dodge dealership after having new brake pads and new rotors installed. The vehicle is driving fine and the brakes are operating perfectly. The assistant service manager, wes, was helpful and professional. However, I don't think spending $900 on new rotors should be required after two years of operation and less than 50,000 miles. I am meticulous about maintenance and tire rotation. I do not ride the truck hard and all of my driving is country, not city, mileage. Even your Dodge personnel could not give me any reason why this would happen so soon. I am not a certified mechanic, but I believe there is something seriously wrong with either the design of the brakes or the materials or components used in the brake design. I bought a new '91 Dodge daytona and said I would never buy another Dodge due to problems and maintenance costs. In 2003, I thought I would give Dodge another shot and bought a new loaded, Dakota truck. Rest assured, this will be the last Dodge vehicle I ever own. Sincerely, william wilson.