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2001 Dodge Dakota brakes complaints

Page 3 of 5: complaints 41 to 70 of 130, newest first, as owners wrote them.

See the summary of 2001 Dodge Dakota brakes problems: which part fails, at what mileage and related recalls.

Filed Dec 8, 2004 · Airbags, Brakes · 47,000 miles · NY · crash · 2 injuries

The consumer's vehicle rear ended an oil tanker while driving at 45 MPH. Upon impact, none of the frontal air bags deployed. The driver sustained knee injuries, and the passenger sustained a hair line fracture to left foot, angle, and ribs. She also suffered from back pains. This was the second collision where the air bags didn't deploy. *ak *tc the consumer's husband applied the brakes, but the vehicle failed to slow down. The brakes felt like they were slipping. *sc

Filed Nov 26, 2004 · Brakes · 30,000 miles · PA

Brake pedal pulsated when applying brakes at various speeds. Vehicle had been to the dealer on three separate occasions to have the rotors turned. However, the problem recurred. Consumer was concerned that the front rotors were wearing out prematurely.

Filed Nov 25, 2004 · Brakes · PA

I purchased my 2001 dodge dakota club cab back in feb. 2002 as a demo vehicle with 5000 miles on it. Since then I have had the brake pads replaced twice and have had the drums and rotors replaced 4 times due to warping. About every three thousand miles my drums and rotors need to be turned or replaced.my truck has 70,000 miles on it and it is used primarily on the highway.

Filed Oct 14, 2004 · Brakes · 35,561 miles · CA

When the consumer attempted to apply the brakes, they did not respond. As a result the consumer ran into the bushes. Provide further details.

Filed Oct 11, 2004 · Brakes · 12,000 miles · NY

Factory rotors are defective. Rotors warp at low mileage causing partial brake failure. Daimler chrysler is aware of defect and chooses not to address.

Filed Oct 5, 2004 · Brakes · 14,000 miles · NY

Vehicle vibrated when brake were being applied at any speed. Consumer believed the problem was causes by warped rotors.

Filed Oct 5, 2004 · Brakes, Suspension · 43,500 miles · PA

I would like to know why dodge has not recalled the dodge dakotas for defective ball joints and disc rotors. I have scanned the internet and found a large number of people who have had the same problem as I. My 2001 dakota was purchased in december. Of 01 and has 44,000 miles . I am 54 years old and this was my first new vehicle. Unfortunately it was a dodge. I will never own another dodge product,and if asked my opinion will not recommend dodge to anyone !!!!!!!!! Please send this to the dodge corp.

Filed Sep 29, 2004 · Brakes · CA

2001 dodge dakota quad cab - faulty front and rear brake design I am a mechanical engineer by training. The front rotors and rear disc brakes are of poor design and function. They overheat, warp and begin to pulse. This occurs as a result of small brakes coupled with the large diameter tires and heavy weight of the vehicle. I have had to replace all brakes twice within 3 years (60,000 miles) as a result. These breaks do not brake well and are extremely soft. I have had numerous close calls as a result of these brakes. I would also like to point out that when coupled with this ABS system most vehicles continue to "lock-up" and slide creating a potential for serious accidents.

Filed Sep 28, 2004 · Brakes, Visibility · 5,000 miles · TX

Main concern is brakes. The front calipers are sticking and the rotors are warping which is causing the truck to pull one way or the other when stopping. On slick roads the truck will turn sideways on a fast stop and now they have to be pushed almost to the floor board to get them to work. I told them something was wrong the day I bought it after about 20 miles of ownership it took many phone calls and 8 months to get them to fix it and the day I picked it up we drove it and still was not right so they kept it 2 more days and late it is not working again. Windshield wiper on right side at very end does not touch window on all of the dakota trucks which when in use it skips across the window. It makes a loud noise when using and can not see out that side of front window because of the skipping. There are many other things wrong with this truck but the brakes, wiper and drivetrain ( more so on the brakes ) is a lot of peoples problems. With the brakes like they are it makes for a very unsafe truck. I could get rid of it but could not live with myself knowing how unsafe the brakes are on this truck. I think I got a lemon and wish they would just take this truck back. If I knew how to do it I would. I am disable and can't trust this truck. I can show you on the web where many people are having brake and other problems. The fix they came up with is quality aftermarket brake parts. I did not buy a 20k truck to fix myself. It should at least last a year. I have another dodge truck with none of this kind of problem and its a 1994 with over 100000. Also the back brakes don't even feel like they are working. I have anti lock on the back but not the front and when they tried to fix the front I was told they put anti lock pads on it and that's not what I have. *ak

Filed Aug 30, 2004 · Brakes · 18,000 miles · OH

The brakes on my dakota have been causing problems since there was approximately 7,000 miles on the truck. The truck now has about 20,000 miles and the rotors need turned down and new brakes. There seems to be something wrong with the brake system that would cause them to go bad so quickly.

Filed Aug 22, 2004 · Brakes · MA

I'm a little disturbed at this page...."number of deaths"? Does somebody have to die before consumers are protected? My complaint is for the brakes on my 2001 dodge dakota quad cab. I no longer expect my brakes to stop me when I need them which means to avoid an accident, I had better always be looking for a way to steer around an obstacle! On two occasions I can remember, I had to steer around a stopped vehicle because my truck would just not stop in time. I've done some research on my own and there is enough evidence on the internet that proves there is a real defect in the braking system used on dodge dakota trucks from 1999 to 2002 from what I've read. When you read of one person complaining about warped rotor's and having no brakes when you need them, that's one thing. But when you read countless complaints of these same things..what has to be done? How many people have to die? Obviously it's about money...you don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure that out. Chrysler would rather ignore problems and take a hit on a couple law suits every year after someone dies. It must be cheaper for them to operate this way because otherwise they wouldn't be doing it. Now it's your job to promote safety...is it not? If it is, then you should make our highway's safer by removing dangers from them..such as dangerous vehicles with brakes that fail.

Filed Aug 15, 2004 · Brakes, Steering · 11,000 miles · CT

I own a dodge dakota quad cab 2001 5.9 v8 the brakes have always sucked. The front rotors warped over and over again I'm forced in buying a bigger kit that will cost me $3,000. The rear end leaks and the dealer says its natural. These two problems have been with me for 6 months after purchase. I will not buy another dodge again. I think the transmission is going now and the steering pump is going too. The truck has 66,000 miles now. It looks nice but hp , brakes and over all performance sucks. If I was in the creative end working for dodge I could improve their vehicles greatly.

Filed Aug 12, 2004 · Brakes, Suspension · 47,390 miles · WI

Pe 03-032 , front susp. Upper ball joint:the vehicle was taken in for an oil change and the consumer found that the upper ball joints were worn. *jb the vehicle's rotors were also warped.

Filed Jul 27, 2004 · Acceleration, Brakes · 40,687 miles · MD

I own a 2001 dodge dakota quad cab 4x4 sle that we purchased new. In the last 6 months, and with only 49000 miles on the truck currently, the following failures have occurred: (1) (from february 2004 to present) the factory-installed external wiring harness (for towing a trailer) melted from the inside out, shorting out the electrical system. (2) brakes would pulsate anytime brakes were applied. Dealer attributed this to warping of rotors and replaced pads and turned the rotors. Dealer noted a spring on driver-side caliper was missing and replaced it as well. (3) the heater/AC controls failed. (4) went for state inspection and inspector failed truck due to failure of upper ball joints and brakes. The same brakes I just had fixed in february. Premature failure of ball joints attributed to "typical problem for dakotas/durangos". Well if it's typical, why isn't there a recall?? The dealer had no answers. Failure was a result of calipers not releasing properly causing the rotors and brake pads to "glaze". Dealer opted to pick up the tab for the new rotors and the new pads, only at my request. The new calipers and brake lines still cost me $800. Again I'm wondering why I'm paying for so much on a truck that is only 3 years old with only 49000 miles. (5) unknown problem at startup when engine is cold. Pressing the accelerator causes the engine to sputter. Problem exists until engine is warm then goes away. Two dodge dealerships and neither can figure out the problem as there is no computer error code coming up. All items mentioned were paid for by me unless otherwise specified. Had any of these issues been a result of negligence, or lots of mileage, or had the dodge dealership(s) opted to pay for items that were the obvious result of poor craftsmanship, I wouldn't complain. But, the failures relating to the brakes could quite possibly have resulted in an accident which risks my life and that of my wife, and dodge doesn't seem to care.

Filed Jun 29, 2004 · Brakes · 21,000 miles · IL

While applying the brakes, the vehicle jerked uncontrollably. Consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle, and took it to the dealer for inspection. Mechanic determined that the rotors needed to be replaced due to corrosion. *ak two weeks before talking to the dealer, the consumer was informed that the front rotors were coming apart and could not be turned. (defective steel, big chunks of metal missing, laminated steel) the dealer stated that it seemed like pockets were in the rotors. *sc

Filed Jun 28, 2004 · Brakes · 29,289 miles · NC

Rotors warped at 25000 miles. Had dealer replace rotors with brembo rotors and pads with raybestos ceramic pads. Received from dealer after replacement- brakes dragged. Took back to dealer twice- finally, dealer discovered that ABS system is non-functional. Dc paid for the parts to repair system- labor was my expense ( I had timed out of warranty). Dealer says that new pads are cracked from damage done after repair. Have to replace pads.

Filed Jun 25, 2004 · Brakes · 50 miles · MN

I have a 2001 dodge dakota quad cab and while approaching a stop sign, stepped on the brake pedal which went completely to the floor, and nearly caused me to rear end another vehicle. When I brought it to the dealer they stated to me that the the brake pad was sheared off by the rivets, causing a metal to metal contact with the rotor.

Filed Jun 14, 2004 · Brakes, Suspension · DC

2001 dodge dakota had many problems with the drive train and brakes.*mr the consumer heard a clunking noise when shifting from park to drive, reverse, etc. The rear tire on the right side stuck out from the vehicle. The driveshaft seemed to have alot o slack in it. There was a popping noise in the front end when making sharp slow turns. There was a whining noise in the steering and rear end when turning. The vehicle was taken tot he dealer but they were unable to duplicate the problems. The brake, rotors, calipers had to be replaced between 55-8000 miles.

Filed May 6, 2004 · Brakes · OH

Brake rotors warping on 2001 dodge dakota. Cause uneven where on brake rotor and eventual replacement less than 10k.

Filed May 3, 2004 · Brakes · HI

While applying the brakes they locked up. Vehicle was towed to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the calipers needed to be replaced, and replaced them five times. However, problem recurred.

Filed Apr 29, 2004 · Brakes, Locks · 15,400 miles · MI

Dodge dakota rotor warps. I have less than 16,000 miles and the car began shaking upon applying brakes. Increase stopping distance. Took vehicle to dealer and was told my rotors were warped. Offered to turn at my expense. No other solutions offered. Researched problem and found to be widespread. Taking vehicle back to dealer. Also liftgate improperly latches unless slammed hard. A/c blower motor went out in winter and was unable to clear windows.

Filed Mar 15, 2004 · Brakes · 13,000 miles · MD

Front rotors "warped" at 13k. Rotors turned. Problem persisted and had to be turned again at 31k. 61k had front rotors and brake pads replaced. Brake assembly fell apart in mechanics hands. 72k problem still persists and dealer suggest having rotors turned every 3k miles. Huh??

Filed Mar 12, 2004 · Brakes, Transmission · 57,987 miles · NJ

I have a problem with my fwd. I had replaced module/contrlo, anti-lock brake,trasfer case gear and the modulefor the transfer case.and the shift motor (vacuum). And also the propeller shaft, with universal joints replaced also. And to top it off my fwd service light is on again,also I have no low gear in fwd light is blinking.and front end still makes noise. I have a 2001 dodge dakota quad cab.

Filed Mar 5, 2004 · Brakes · 3 miles · AL

Consumer complained about a brake problem. While driving at any speed brakes locked up. Vehicle had been to dealer on 4 separate occasions. Dealer replaced rotors, booster power unit, calipers, master cylinder and pads. Vehicle was still having the same problem.

Filed Feb 3, 2004 · Brakes · 42,780 miles · MA

While driving, a strong odor of burning brakes was smelled. There was a large plume of smoke coming from the front left wheel well, and the vehicle was pulling to the right. The truck had to be stopped for fear of fire or injury. Dodge states that the front left caliper seized, causing damage to the relatively new front rotors and pads I purchased. Last july, approximately 7 months ago, the truck's right front brake caliper seized, causing a similar situation only on the opposite side of the vehicle. Dodge refuses to admit fault in supplying faulty parts to customers. Brake calipers should not fail under normal driving conditions after 36,000-42,000 miles. After numerous other mechanical problems with this vehicle I have lost complete confidence in it, and believe it to be a safety hazard for myself and others on the road.

Filed Jan 26, 2004 · Brakes · CO · crash

My 2001 dodge dakota 4x4 4w antilock brakes don't provide adequate braking. Vehicle does not brake adequately during "panic" stopping. The antilock feature releases the brakes long before it should. Abs engages but allows too much "free-wheeling" which allows vehicle too much travel. I have several close calls. The last time this has caused a rear end crash in my truck and both air bags deployed and cost 11,000.00. Replacing the air bags cost 8,500.00. I have taken the truck to 3 local dealers and they said the ABS is working as designed. The last dealer I took it to I talked to the tech. He said it is a bad design. He also said the master cylinder vacuum chamber is to small. This is very dangerous and all 2001 and newer trucks should be recalled. I have had antilock brakes on several of my previous vehicles but this truck has the worst brakes ever. We need a class action law suit to force dodge to fix defect!!

Filed Jan 8, 2004 · Brakes · 9,765 miles · CA

While driving at any speed when the brake pedal was depressed, the vehicle did not slow down. When the pedal was depressed, most of the time there was a loud sound. The dealer had tried to repair the problem at least 5 times with no success. The master cylinder/rotors and calipers were replaced. *ak when the antilock brake system disengaged, the problem was not present. The problem returned when the ABS re engaged.the dealer and manufacturer refused to repair under warranty. A repair attempt was made 8 times.

Filed Jan 6, 2004 · Brakes · 30,000 miles · OH

While braking front disc brake rotors would cause the vehicle to pulsate. Dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem.

Filed Nov 18, 2003 · Brakes · 23,500 miles · MA

I currently own a 2001 dodge dakota 4x4. When applying the brakes, the truck would vibrate violently. The dealer told me that the rotors were rotting from the inside out. I believe this is a defective component.

Filed Nov 12, 2003 · Brakes · VA

Warping of brake rotors on dodge dakotas. I've owned 2 dakotas - both had problems with the front rotors warping at low mileage with light use.

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