1999 Dodge Dakota consumer reviews

I traded in my 97 Dakota Sport (2WD) because of it's poor handling on wet and snowy roads, in retrospect one of the worse decisions I ever made. Not only did I get screwed on the trade-in, but the 4X4 version was a dog. Both trucks had the same 5.2 liter V8 but with the 4X4 there was a noticeable decline in performance and fuel economy. Of course this is to be expected but it was very noticeable. Both trucks handle remarkably well for what for all intents and purposes is a midsized truck. In fact, the turning radius is almost exactly the same as my Honda Civic. Taking off in 2WD on wet roads is a guaranteed spin out due to the torque and the light rear load. As far as reliability is concerned it's hard to believe the two vehicles came off the same assembly line. In my first 10,000 miles I'm not sure if the truck had more horizontal miles or vertical. Suspension, drive train, fan clutch, water pump, you name it. When the battery runs down the engine begins hesitating violently. I know this because I purchased 5 batteries for this vehicle over the first 50,000 miles. I finally gave up on Mopar and purchased an Autozone battery because of the excellent warranty. Now when the battery dies I just trade it in for a new one. Undoubtedly the most unreliable vehicle I've ever owned. Having said that, it was also the most nimble truck I've ever driven. So if you're a mechanic or have a friend who owns a repair shop, then this is the truck for you.

Feature just about everything you can imagine, disliked power window switch location. Prices are affordable and truck is reliable!!