2001 Dodge Dakota: grinding or squealing brakes

Filed May 14, 2010 · Suspension · 90,000 miles · MD

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 dodge dakota. The contact stated that he previously had repairs performed on the vehicle under the federal safety agency campaign id number 04v596000 (suspension, front control arm, upper ball joint). He was experiencing an abnormally loud squeaking and clanking sound while he was driving various speeds. The contact stated that the identical failure recurred after the recall repairs were made. The failure mileage was 90,000 and the current mileage was 94,000.

Filed Sep 27, 2004 · Transmission · 42,500 miles · MA

Noticed a squeaking noise coming from the rear wheels of my 2001 dodge dakota. Dealer stated that both rear u joints failed. The truck has only 42000 miles on it and should not have this kind of failure. *ak in addition, I was informed that the extended warranty that I had purchased was no longer valid because that particular warranty company had gone out of business. I had to pay for the cost of the repair out of pocket!

Filed Sep 14, 2004 · Suspension · 4,000 miles · MD

When turning in either direction front end produced a cracking and squeaking noise. Dealers stated upper ball joints broke.

Filed Sep 6, 2004 · Suspension · NY

Noticeable grinding and stress sound especially when making a sharp turn over an uneven surface, such as turning into driveway while traversing a shallow curb. While getting vehicle inspected, I was informed that my upper ball joint was in need of replacement before total failure. This seems rather a premature failure of such a part seeing as how the truck is a 2001 with then around 55,000 miles on it.

Filed Jun 25, 2004 · Suspension, Transmission · 42,000 miles · GA

At 42,000 miles the front wheel hub assembly failed. As a result, while driving driver's side tire bounced up and down. Also, a grinding noise was produced at slow speeds. The dealer stated tire loosened on the axle.

Filed Apr 20, 2004 · Suspension · NM

While driving 55 MPH, a clanking noise was heard coming front both sides of the vehicle. The driver was able to drive the vehicle to the dealer for inspection. The mechanic determined the passenger side upper ball joint needed replacing due to worn out parts. *ak the sway bar squeaked. The broken seal caused the ball joints to dry. *sc

Filed Jan 13, 2004 · Suspension · 37,256 miles · TX

Squeaking noises heard eminating from front suspension at 35000 miles, unable to lubricate suspension because components lack service/grease fittings. During follow-up inspection and tire rotation, identified premature wear to right side upper ball joint causing misalignment, unusual wear to front tires and wear to left wheel bearing. Dealer replaced left wheel bearing and right side upper ball joint at 37336 miles. Dealer also recommended the replacement of most of the other suspension components before they failed. Dodge was helpful in picking up the cost of failed parts, not recommended repairs. My cost $100.00, for going over the warrantee milage and not being able to maintain a maintenance free system. Plus, I get to pay for a re-alignment after the current repairs and most likely the cost of any other premature failure of these maintenance free parts in the near future.

Filed Jan 7, 2004 · Suspension · 5,000 miles · FL

I have a 2001 dodge dakota 2wd and I have a very loud popping noise coming from my left front suspension system that seems to be coming from the ball joint area. It happens when I turn sharp and hit a bump also. I understand from many people who own these vehicles that this is the first sign of a common problem with ball joints grinding and coming apart. This is a safety related issue that needs to be addressed.

Filed Jan 7, 2004 · Suspension · 36,000 miles · 00

While driving consumer heard a squeaking noise coming from the front of the vehicle. The front left upper ball joint was replaced by an independent mechanic.

Filed Dec 22, 2003 · Suspension · 34 miles · IN

Left/driver side ball joint replacement.the front was making a squeaking noise. The ball joint was found to be bad with only 34000 miles on truck.

Filed Nov 27, 2003 · Suspension · 54,000 miles · MA

I am very concerned with the national news report regarding the upper ball joints severing off the vehicle without warning. I have very recently as of 11/25/03 had the sway bar bushings replaced. I had an annoying problem with the front end squeaking very loudly. Replacing the bushings has alleviated that problem for now. I have little or no confidence in the vehicle at this time a safety issue of this magnitude should not be taken lightly, ultimately people's lives are at stake and the manufacturer should take action immediately. Thank you.

Filed Nov 13, 2003 · Suspension · 38,102 miles · GA

I have a 2001 dodge dakota 2x4 with 38,000 miles. Both upper ball joints are bad. This is the same ball joint that is in the durango. I work at a small family owned tire store. I have replaced many, many, many sets of dodge durango/dakota upper ball joints over the last year. 90% of them go bad before the vehicle reaches 100,000 miles. I have been disappointing several times over the last few weeks with chrysler's customer service. All distributors are back ordered on the parts so I can not even get the parts to repair my own dakota. I have heard through our parts distributors that there is an investigation underway. These ball joints are not safe! They develop extensive play in the socket part of the joint in a short period of time. The only saving grace is that they usually start to make a lot of noise (a popping or squeaking sound when the suspension flexes) before they fall out. The sound usually scares people into have it checked. I believe this is the only reason that they have not had more fall apart and cause a wreak. Wes campbell.