Steering Column problems of the 2005 Dodge Dakota

Loud popping noise when making either a left or right turn. After researching, this looks to be a defect in the steering column intermediate shaft & shaft bolts (parts associated). Investigation: pe05-056 was upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea06-004). Since you are aware of this mechanical defect. I would like an approved recall for parts & labor to be paid for by manufacturer to correct this defect that could cause major bodily harm to myself, passengers and other vehicles on the road. I bought the truck brand new with 9 miles in may 2005. It has 77,800 original miles.

Steering column intermediary shaft failure. Shaft joint froze reducing steering capacity while driving on highway. Attempted 1 repair to lubricate joint, replace belt, and adjust tensioner at cost of 300. 00. Problem subsided then returning with even greater failure requiring replacement of shaft at 500. 00. Dodge chaulks it up as normal wear and tear. Total repairs on vehicle bought in 2005 and has recorded 84k miles(about 14k) now exceeding 4k with 800. 00 recouped by Dodge. Have part in possession.

I purchased a 2005 Dodge Dakota pickup truck from venice Dodge/Nissan, venice, FL on March 13, 2005. The steering wheel, which is not tilt, blocks my view of the instrument panel. Called Dodge corp. And they said I should have notied this before I purchased the truck. I said this is my fault because of Dodges design error? Dodge corp. Said there is nothing they can do to fix the problem. Went to the Dodge dealership service dept. . Service manager looked at steering wheel. He is at least 6 ft 1 inch tall, puts seat back, said had no problem. Iam only 5 ft 9 inch tall, must have seat farther up. Service manager said nothing they can do to fix problem. This is a saftey hazard. I must look under or over steering wheel to read the speedomter. Takes my eyes off road for a longer period of time. Talk to other owners of same truck, have same problem.

Anyone over 5'11" cannot see the speedometer without slouching or tipping their head sideways. The view is blocked by the steering wheel. No one at the dealer had even sat in a similar vehicle a month after I brought to their attention. The only way to safely see the anti lock brake indicator, high beam indicator or oil light is if the vehicle is equipped with a tilt wheel. I notified the dealer after driving this vehicle less than 100 miles. To date they have done nothing and tell me it could cost me $3400 - $5000 to rectify.