Three problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 2005 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
2005 Dodge Dakota. Defective steering components. 68,000 miles. Vehicle shakes during braking and at highway speed. One diagnosis stated 4 defective ball joints and upper control arms requiring replacement. Another diagnosis by a Dodge dealer states one defective ball joint, defective rack and pinion and brake calipers sticking. Dodge states there is not a recall on the mentioned parts for my particular vehicle.
First falure of power steering pump which was replaced now leaking at rack and pinion.
2005 Dodge Dakota play in steering every since purchased one year ago as an off lease return. Now truck is in shop due to accident involving front end damage from impact with pillar / pole. Accident unrelated to steering problem. Was contacted by repair shop today and they state all is repaired except the unrelated steering problem and that it is not part of accident and will be separate cost if I want it repaired and that it is loose steering column and rack and pinion loose.