Two problems related to automatic transmission cooler have been reported for the 2005 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Engine light and transmission temp light came on after driving up and down a large incline. Stopped vehicle to allow temp to cool. Both lights reappear after 30-40 minutes driving and goes off after stopping and cooling for several minutes. Took vehicle to Dodge service and they recommended transmission fluid and filter change. Next day both lights reappeared after 30+min of driving. Next Dodge service recommended changing solenoid which was under warranty, except for $100. 00 deductible. Next day both lights appeared after 30+ min of driving. Next Dodge service recommended full transmission replacement which corrected problem. Mileage was 69834 and so transmission service was under warranty and payment for replacing transmission lines; they said old ones were leaking although no signs were observed previously. Parts replaced: solenoid, transmission lines, converter, pump kits, seal pkg, o-rings, discs, plates, retnr pkg.
All 2005 Dodge Dakotas were built missing some of its trailer tow package options, first is the aux. Trans cooler, second is the heavyduty cooling system, I compared mine to everyone on the lot and they were all built the same way. I fell as if Chrysler is miss leading the consumer. I contacted customer assistance several times only to get the run around and I was always referred back to the dealer who in my opinion was not only rude, refused to return my phone calls, although I am very unsatisfied with the dealers responce in the matter, I im very upset with Chrysler due to the fact that they are the company who made and advertised the veh. And listed it's options. The love the truck but I just wish it had the options I paid for.