Dodge Dakota Jerks When Accelerating: Causes + How to Fix

If your Dodge Dakota is jerking when you press the accelerator, a few common issues can cause this.  This guide is built to help you get a better idea as to why your truck is jerking. The most common reason a vehicle jerks when accelerating is a misfire. Checking for trouble codes can make the … Read more

Dodge Dakota: Transmission Fluid Leak Causes

If you’ve found red fluid under your Dodge Dakota, you probably have a transmission leak. A transmission leak is a big deal.  If you let too much transmission fluid leak, the transmission will begin to slip, which can quickly cause long term damage. Unlike oil, transmission fluid is flammable, and will flash if it hits … Read more

Dodge Dakota:  Exhaust Leak → Symptoms & Diagnosis

  One of the most common automotive problems is an exhaust leak.  Leaking exhaust can be loud, smelly, and (depending on where the leak is coming from) dangerous.  If your Dodge Dakota has a leaking exhaust system, it should not be ignored.   Leaking Exhaust Symptoms:  Dodge Dakota A leaking exhaust system affects your Dakota … Read more

Dodge Dakota Engine Rattle: Causes + How to Fix

Experiencing an engine rattle in your Dodge Dakota can be quite concerning, but fear not! This is a common issue faced by many Dakota owners, and understanding the possible causes can have you on your way to a smooth-running engine in no time. In this article, we’ll explore the most common reasons a Dodge Dakota … Read more

Dodge Dakota Transmission Slipping: Causes + How to Fix

Are you worried about your Dodge Dakota’s transmission slipping? Transmission slipping can be a serious problem, potentially leaving your Dakota inoperable if not addressed promptly. It’s crucial to understand what’s causing this issue and how to diagnose and fix it before it escalates into lasting damage. Various factors can contribute to your truck’s transmission slipping, … Read more

Dodge Dakota: Won’t Start When Cold → Diagnosis

Extreme weather can be very difficult on your Dodge Dakota.  If there is an issue it often make itself known when conditions are at their worst.  When it’s extremely hot. it’s the cooling system that is put to the test.  In the winter, the vehicle won’t start when it is cold.   There are a … Read more

Dodge Dakota:  Bad Timing Belt or Chain Symptoms

A bad timing belt or timing chain can be a serious issue.  If it jumps a tooth or breaks entirely, it can lead to permanent engine damage.  Knowing the symptoms of a bad timing belt or chain is vital so this doesn’t happen to your Dodge Dakota. Timing belts are made out of rubber and … Read more

Dodge Dakota: Key Stuck in Ignition → Diagnosis

There are a few easy to fix reasons why your Dodge Dakota’s key might get stuck in the ignition.  It’s often easy to unstick the key.  Whatever you do, don’t start trying to rip it out of the ignition.  That can cause bigger problems. This article is written with the assumption that your key is … Read more

Dodge Dakota Steering Wheel Hard to Turn: Common Causes

If your Dodge Dakota’s steering wheel is hard to turn, it’s almost always going to be caused by an issue with the power steering system.  But there can be other causes as well. Your truck’s power steering system is responsible for taking energy from the engine, converting it to hydraulic pressure, and using that pressure … Read more

Dodge Dakota:  Blue Smoke → Causes & Diagnosis

  A very common problem that affects all vehicles (including the Dodge Dakota) is blue smoke coming from the exhaust.  Reasons for blue exhaust smoke include bad valve seals, valve train wear in general, the PCV valve, burning transmission fluid and more. Blue smoke indicates that your Dakota’s engine is burning oil.  The question is … Read more