2006 DODGE Dakota

2006 dodge doakta st

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating:

I have 189,000 on my truck, it's an ok truck over all, the tranny went at 170,000 and the pcm went at 180,000 other than that it's an ok truck. It has the v6 3.7l And lacks power, exspcally when going up hills, it's good for long drives due to the comfort, rides like a car, overall it's a good truck.

'06 V8 Has 92k No Rattles or Squeaks

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this truck used with 88k about 6 months ago. I did replace a front wheel bearing, but otherwise this truck performs like a champ! It has the smaller V8 and 6sp manual, a great combo for having fun and hauling a utility trailer. MPG is right a t 20 on the highway and 16-17 in the city. For an engine nearing 100k, that's right on the EPA mark. Interior is a bit bland, but everything is easy to read and easy to use. Power windows! Heated mirrors! I think those are my only options. The 4x4 system is older but highly effective. Braking is very adequate, very little fade even with rear drums and front discs. For 10g's, this was a really good buy.

Disappointed

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Owned the 4.7 V8 Magnum version of this vehicle for three years. During that time, we poured $8000 in repairs alone into it. We should have bailed ship at the first sign of trouble. Money pit. Rust issues and strange structural issues galore. Other than that, it was a great truck for hauling around nearly a ton of stuff and a daily commuter. Comfortable, simple clean design interior with nice Alpine stereo. 4x4 really came in handy during winter and extreme rains. V8 was responsive and sturdy. Took a massive loss with this vehicle though. Wouldn't recommend this particular year for the issues associated with it. Check owner forums to determine a good year to buy.

A good reliable truck.

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I have 130K miles on my 4x4, V6, 6 speed, 2006 Dakota. So far, (knock on wood), no problems. On road it drives like a car. Off-road, it does it's job well. It handles central Oregon snow great. It also crawls up central Oregon buttes with ease despite it's lower ground clearance. Not sure where the 20 MPG comes into play, but mine gets more like 15-17MPG, city/hwy respectively. My V6 feels under powered while accelerating to hwy speeds. I could rev it up to or past 3K rpms, but that cost money in fuel.

just bought my third dakota.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

great truck. i just traded in my 02 dakota sport quad cab 4x4 v8. for a 2006 dakota slt quad cab 4x4 v8. be for that a had a 95 sport 2wd. these trucks are tough. they can really take a beating. i live in wisconsin. we have rough winters. really wet rainy seasons. this truck can haddle any thing. i loved off roading in my 02. best 4x4 i have ever ownd. i pulled out some chevys. and a couple fords. this deer season. i highly recomend this truck if you do alot of out door activitys. or just want a good/safe winter vehical. very fun. very reliable. very powerfull. very best deal. none of the other compair. not even half of the full size trucks

does not honor warranty

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I own a 06 Dodge Dakota 4x4 with the 3.7 v6. I am overall satisfied with the truck, but not with Dodge itself. I bought my truck in Feb 07, important date: the transmission went out the other day so I looked up dodge warranty and found out that an extended warranty for the 06 dakota powertrain was provided if you bought your truck on or after July 07. 4 months from the day I bought mine Feb 07. So dodge eventhough it's the same year and all will not honor my warranty due to the 4 month difference on day of purchase. DODGE/CHRYSLER, I HAVE BOUGHT MY LAST VEHICLE FROM YOU AND WILL RECOMMEND TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY THE SAME. MAYBE THAT'S WHY THE JAPANESE ARE AHEAD OF US IN CUSTOMER SERVIC

2006 Dakota 4.7 V8 Q-Cab 4WD SLT w/upgrd

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I just purchased a 2006 Dakota with 21,000 miles on it in great condition. I needed something that can tow in the future, but not a big truck. It only had 4-5,000 miles per year prior to purchase. It rides much better than I thought and has plenty of room inside. I prefer the plastic look everyone seems to hate, but its easier to clean. I recently got 24 mpg highway and get about 18 city. This is great for a truck. I am very happy I got a Dakota with 21,000 and not a Frontier or Tacoma with 100,000. They are priced too high. Tailgate is not heavy like others say, better get back to the gym.

Bought Used at 38K Miles

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

All of you that complain about power on the 6cyl have Automatics? I have the 6 sp manual, and it has great power. Uphill, on the freeway, 65 mph in 5th gear, and still accelerating uphill. 6th gear is great for cruising on flat land, as an OD should be. Plenty of power in the V6 3.7 L here! Great Acceleration from a stop, and when you need it to really romp, taking it up to 3000RMP before shifting seems to do the trick for 1st through 3rd. I get on the freeway every morning and am holding it back by the end of the ramp, where I was still flooring my old rig! Just went through my first tank of gas. 50% town, 50% Freeway - 18 MPG. Great for a pickup, and better than most small trucks for average!

We call it Shake Rattle and Roll

Performance: 2 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

This truck shakes. It vibrates. Took it back to the dealership 5 times in 5 months. Finally had to call Chrysler when the dealership became very rude with me. They didn't know what to do with it. It was still under the manufacturers warranty but they kept telling me it was brake issues and tire issues. Had all that replaced. Truck was still vibrating. They repaired some kind of axle shaft. Still vibrating. Put 4 new tires on it and turned the front rotors. Didn't vibrate for about 3 months. Now it's vibrating again. It's a piece of crap just because of this vibration that no one can make permanently go away.

Loved my 2006 Dakota

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I recently lost my 2006 Dodge Dakota 8- cylinder quad cab 2WD due to a weather related accident. But in the 3 1/2 years I owned my Dakota, I absolutely loved driving it every time I got behind the wheel; and had zero problems with it in the time I owned it. As I was so completely satisfied with my 2006 Dakota in the time I owned it, I wanted to post a post-ownership review for the benefit of those who are considering purchasing one. The only bit of advice I would have is to opt for the 4-wheel drive version, though, since the 2-wheel drive version is real-wheel drive.

impressive mpg

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

i dont know why other people are complaining this truck has a v8 4x4 add acts like it... it has a lot better mpg than my 2000 ranger 4x4 3.o v6 (never got above 18 mpg) dakota never gets below 19.3 mpg v8 highway.... its a truck you will never get 30 mpg so stop complaining it has excellent gas mileage for a truck...

Strong truck

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Solid truck all around, small ebough to drive everywhere, but as strong as full sized trucks. High output V8 has loads ow towing power. Gas mileage is average for a V8

Gas Hog

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

All I can say is this vehicle gets 12 MPG on mostly highway while keeping it below 2,000 rpms. The window sticker is far from accurate. Buyer beware.

nice truck

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

bought truck new with 18 miles on it has 4.7L with towing setup I pull a 28 foot travel trailer 6300 lbs (loaded) w/no problem. Fuel mileage 15/19 city/hw,9/11 pulling trailer rear differential gasket replaced under warrenty @ 23000m, front bumper loose when purchased missing bolts , dependable truck for the money,unfortunatlly wife has taken it over she loves it

Built Farm Tough

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought this truck new in 2006, a great truck with around 180,000 miles on it. Had to have right tie rod replaced at 10,000 miles. This truck is a heavy off-road vehicle and a moderate highway driver. It is used to pull daily, with trailer loads up to 8500 lbs. This truck has taken a beating and yet still runs strong. It flooded over the 2008 summer and it sat halfway under water for 2 weeks. This is a true farm truck

never again

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I have owned this truck for nearly 4 years. Belt tensioner went out under warranty. After warranty expired, water pump replaced TWICE, trans rebuilt at 79k miles, trans control module replaced 2 months later, engine replaced at 86k (leakage on three cylinders...very rough idle), terrible gas mileage, "clunking" sound coming from driveshaft when taking off or stopping (Dealer says common problem and cannot be fixed). Changing the oil is easy, but messy (oil hits cross member and splatters everywhere). Engine is sluggish, and tranny shifts at entirely the wrong time. I hate this truck with a passion and will never buy another Chrysler product. I can see why they went bankrupt.

OK

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought my truck new. I must say at first I loved it, but 3 months after having it, it was in the dealership 3 times on warrenty. Then about a year later in the shop again. First 2 things were with the gaskets for exhaust manafold, 3rd thing was air conditioning, 4th thing Camshaft Position Sensor wnet out at 36,000 miles, 5th thing sensor went out again at 49,000. No warrenty, thank god my husband is a wrench otherwise it would cost me $500. Truck is a piece. Think about giving it back and take my loses.

Best small truck for the money

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

For the money you cannot buy a better small truck. When you compare that you get a v6 with good towing and full truck size for the same money as a single cab tacoma, ranger, colorado, or frontier that only come stock with 4 cylinders, there is no comparison. I bought a full size truck in my eyes for the price of a compact truck. Also the manual transmission is INCREDIBLE. In 6th gear I can run 85 at 2600 rpm which is unheard of with modern cars. So if you want a full size truck for half size money get one, if you want a small truck with fuel economy go buy a tacoma or ranger.

The jury's still out...

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought a used '06 in '08. I wanted a V-6 for milage (traded in a Jeep Wrangler) but the V-6 is a dog. It won't get out of it's own way. The rear end is super light and on rain slicked roads you really need to watch the break away factor. That could also be because of the crappy Good Year tires the truck came with. I'll be upgrading the tires to Michelins very soon. Suspension is extremely soft and bouncy, almost like driving a '70's era Cadillac. The bed could be a few inches longer but it works for what I need. I can put my Suzuki RM in the back straight on with the gate down. The mpg is decent, not great, not bad. So far, I haven't had any mechanical issues.

Not a bad truck...

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 4

This truck wasn't bad. The v6 was great until pulling. The ford 4.2 v6 seems a bit more powerfull. I put 26k on without a problem and went on a couple road trips and stayed comfortable. I only traded it because I needed more room for a growing family, back to Ford!

Great Truck, Quad w/ V8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought used, came off a lease, w/ 19000 miles. Preformance Dodge in Omaha went over the vehicle completely before it went off warranty and replaced some things that were going bad - they really treated me well - they take care of our Jeep Patriot too - great service dept. I really like the Dakota and it gets 16-18 mpg around town depending how much I use the a/c. The only thing you must do is get rid of the OEM shocks and replace w/ Rancho 5000's - they really settle it down - OEM are just to soft and cause some bounce, that I have seen others complain about. I've owned a lot of Jeeps (and if they made a truck I would have got that)my first Dodge - It's a keeper.

BUY A V8 !

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

If you bought a V6 don't complian about power . You bought a v6 duh. The V8 screams and the only problem i have is getting traction to break inertia,

Good old all American work truck.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

At 50k I replaced: tires the brake pads I’ve installed K&N air filter and Bosch Platinum 4 spark plugs. About a month ago the cam shaft and the crank shaft sensors vent bad 400$, #2ingnition coil replacement was 35$. Belt replacement coming too. Paint is very sensitive. Body dents very easy. Factory speakers sounds like you have a bucket on them later upgraded with Infinity speakers now the whole door panel rattles.I have broken the parking brake release 18$ and once I have slammed the glove compartment door and the opening mechanism broke inside 50$. Idles a little rough. And the tranny are slow.I may going to have some problems with my differential. Highway I do 20mpg city about 15-16mpg.

Irmas Dakota

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

3 years old, only the plastic parking brake pull inside clip broke. glued on a metal L, drilled hole to match and good to go. ZERO problems. Running syntheic oil, getting 18-24 mpg from around town to 70-75 on open road. 3.7 OK, not same power as my 318 Ram Van but does well vs milage improvement. Love the truck, especially around town. Would get another in a minute. Wife will not let it go, loves 17" wheels for traffic and trailer towing package and posi-tracking make a big difference. Corners flat without a lean. Spend the little more then just standard, worth it. Dynamite sound system. Three part folding back cover is recommended for mpg and the Dodge heavy duty bed mat keeps back quiet

Overall great vehicle

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

Have had my Dakota since new. The V8 is good but could have more power. 3xs back to the dealer for turn signle problems. Could use better suspension. Tires are terrible. Dodge, put a truck tire on a truck please. Surprisingly not as a cheaply built as I would think from a domestic vehicle. I prefer buying Deomestic but quality is going to drive that decision for people, including myself in the future. I love my Dakota. Thinking about adding some aftermarket improvement as I have no plans on getting rid of it. First vehicle I have had in a long time, domestic made, that I am really really happy with.

Bad transmissions

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

At 42k miles my transmission fluid is black when i replaced it 3 months ago. Of course they tell me i need a new transmission and of course it's 6k out of warranty. Eventually i get a hold of someone at dodge who agree to help, yet they only decided to pay 50% of 2,800 to get a new one. 02-05 come with 7 yr 70k powertrain warranty and late 06 to now come with a lifetime powertrain of course i got an early 06 so i'm screwed with a 3 yr 36k bumper to bumper. When i turn the wheel lock to lock it squeals, fluid seems fine, mystery illness. Terrible gas mileage, center console latch stuck and couldn't get it open after awhile. The whole center console is cheaply made.Overall bad choice on my part

Great Truck!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my Dakota since it was new, and I love it. I've also customized it so that makes it more fun to drive. Subs, 20" wheels, cold air, flowmaster, you know the whole package. I go big, LOL. I always get compliments on the looks and it drives well. Power can be added though. Even with cold air intake and flowmaster, still have issues. Nonetheless, great truck!

The size is right

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I like the size of the Dakota. Full size trucks are too large for what I need and compact trucks are just too small. Good power from the 4.7 L V8. Knew better than to get the V6, little if any better fuel economy with no power. Back seats are OK for the little kids but should have gotten quad cab for more room. Had problems with vibrations at 50-65 mph. Dealer finally found & replaced 3 defective tires (Goodyears). Only real gripe is the extremely soft front suspension. Dips and bumps in the road make for a bouncy white knuckle ride. Very unnerving when the front end is bouncing up & down & up & down nearly bottoming out over a small dip on the highway.

Go V-8 for the power

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Pretty good truck overall. Average 19- 20 mpg with no load and city/hwy mix. With load drops to 17-18 mpg. Has a good ride but wind noise has picked up over time. Ignition module went out at 40000 just over warranty ($400). I really enjoy the truck overall. I was at the dealer and talked about trade for kicks. The V-8 is undesirable over the V-6 even though you only gain 1-2 mpg with the V-6. The V-8 has the power to haul and get you on the road as the V-6 was a dog to me.

Great Truck

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my 2006 Club Cab about 19 months ago. I currently have 31,800 miles on it. Few complaints or problems. I love the large center arm rest. Very comfortable driving position. The 3.7 liter v-6 is adequate, but could use a little more power. My only complaint is that when you hit a bump, the front suspension rattles & sounds loose. Also, the blind spots are rather large which makes it difficult when pulling out of certain types of intersections. I like the styling and the interior is basic but it works well, after all it is a truck. I would recommend a Dakota to anyone who needs a truck. It's a great compromise between the smaller compact trucks & the full size gas guzzlers.

Bad Trans

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I always like the Dodge Dakota so i bought this one Brand New. Since I have had this, it has been in the shop 5 times now. This time for the transmission that just went out @ 44,000 miles, and NO this year did not come with the extended Powertrain warranty. So I get to eat the cost of it this time. Other times it was in the shop for.. 1. Computer went out 2. Windshield Wiper motor 3. Bad Speakers 4. Ignition Switch

Can't wait to get rid of

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

Wow this truck is a total dog. I have no clue why i bought it, I liked the looks of it and the factory sound system. Other than that, the truck has no power and it's the HO 4.7. Fuel mileage is terrible, usually around 12 overall. Best I've seen is 16 and that was on cruise on the highway. The ride is like riding in a semi. Any bump you hit about throws you out of the vehicle. I can't wait to get rid of this truck!! GMC Sierra here I come!!

Good truck for the money...4.7liter v-8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this vehicle used with 17,000 miles on it when I purchased it. At 19,000 the fuel pump went out, but the truck was covered under warranty, and they fixed it right away. For all around performance and features I can say it exceeded my expectations. The only gripe I have is the city driving w/ the 4.7 liter fuel mileage isn't all that great, but highway mileage is awesome! I'm fortunate to get 14 mpg city. Power is awesome and there's no lack at all in that category. I have over 30,000 miles on it now, and it has done well for me. I did experience a small problem w/ the door open sensor but they fixed it right away, I can only say good things about the dealership I purchased it from.

Don't Bother

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

This is by far the worst truck I've ever driven. The 4.7 V-8 is a joke, it has no power and gets horrible mpg. The best mileage I've seen is 15 mpg highway empty, if I tow even a small trailer it gets 9 mpg. Toyota and Nissans V-6 have better power and mpg. Not to mention that it's been in the shop 6 times in less than 2 years, 4 times for tranny issues, radio problems and cracked exhaust manifold. Stay as far away as possible from Dodge products they are complete garbage across the board.I should know I rent them daily basis or should I say send them to the shop daily. Thankfully this is a company truck and I don't have to keep it for much longer.

Not The Greatest

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I just bought this truck a little over a year ago and it has been pretty reliable for me. It seems to be put together pretty solid. The 3.7 L is very quiet, smooth, and feels refined. I have noticed that the truck seems to pull to the right some on the highway despite having a recent alignment, rotation, and balance done. Also the brakes are already squeaking some when coming to a stop which may or may not be because of the grime and buildup from driving it through Iowa winter. All around though it has been a good truck but if you are looking for something as your daily commuter buy a higher trim level with more options and get 4 wheel drive it makes your vehicle worth that much more.

average at best

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 3

had a problem with the radio as soon as i drove it off the lot. then afte a month of driving, as i was doing an oil change i noticed tranny fluid leaking. the seals had gone bad and i had to have a new torque converter installed. the vehicle had 6,000 miles on it at the time. fortunately it was covered under the warranty, but this has me concerned as to what else will go wrong in the near future. going over bumps, the truck looses grip of the road.

Love the Looks

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This was the truck I had been waiting for. Hated the nose design of the 1996-2005 [my prev. was a 1995 Dakota SLT]. This design is bold and clean. Interior is almost quiet, space is good, comfort is very good.. Fit & finish are great except for the body panels. Fenders to molded bumpers gap lets dirt, salt, mud flow thru. Got a cap on back and bed is fine & secure for most loads.

Dakota

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

A good sturdy truck. I was impressed when I towed an 6 yd tandem dumping trailer. I hauled topsoil for a couple of days with this rig. Most people put tonneau covers on their trucks and they become cars with poor mileage. Use your Dodge for what it was made for and you will be impressed.

Back on the Road

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

After driving for 3600 miles I was hit by a Peterbuilt truck in rush hour last June 19th. Just got back yesterday afyet numerous repairs from accident. This truck saved my life as If I was hit in my car I would be dead. Only frame damage was left rear rail which was pulled back on fram machine. Outstanding crash protection. I walked away with no injury.

Comfortable Ride

Performance: 2 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My 2000 Tundra was falling apart, and I wanted to buy a small new truck. The interior room is great for hauling the kids around. We have also taken a couple of 500 miles trips and the highway mileage and comfort are great. But, the get up and go is non-existent. I don't get in a hurry with this one. Also, it is hard to get aftermarket parts/mods for the truck. Overall, a good ride, but I wish I had looked a bit more.

Great truck

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My experience was great getting my truck. It was my first car that I have actually bought new. Truck handles like a dream around corners. I’d like to see a Chevy do that.

Confused

Performance: 2 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 4

I took over the lease on a crew cab Dakota 4x4 to help out a friend, and I hate it so much that it sits in the driveway. My other truck is an '05 Frontier SE crew cab, and there is no comparison between the Nissan and the Dodge. If the Dakota was $10,000 less expensive (instead of just cheaper) I'd give it some cred for offering a decent work truck to someone with a more modest income. If it sounded good and was fun to drive, I'd give it credit for power and handling, even lacking refinement as it does. But for the price, and knowing what Nissan and Toyota are offering, there's no way I'd buy this junk heap.Worst money I've ever spent on anything. Editor's Most Wanted?

Don't buy a Dodge!

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

I originally bought this truck due to it being the best truck for the money compared to the others. Now, I have constant problems with it. The power steering pump constantly screams as if it is low on fluid even though it is full. I have had difficulty getting the truck to start on 4 occasions, but the dealer can't duplicate the problem to diagnose it. The door is now sagging due to it not being tightened down all the way at the factory, and the body lean even at low speeds is excessive. I have taken the truck in to 3 different dealers for repair, and have had similar negative results with all. This truck is affordable initially, but is more expensive in the long run.

Incentives to buy for a reason

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 2

Need something to pull the neighbor out of the ditch with look no futher. But don't try to pass a filling station because you may not make the next. Fuel economy is worst than my 1991 V8 Dakota with 220,000 miles on it. Try to turn up the volume with gloves on and you shut it off over 80% of the time and remember to watch out for the shifter lever which is in the way to get to the stereo. Window controls are not usable except without gloves and don't try to unbuckle with gloves it don't work. Plow through snow to get to the highway and the alternator belt slips. The armrest is so hard and it shows dirt instantly. Incentives to buy for a reason. Buy the Toyota

Nice Truck except for the Problems

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I downsized from a Ram to a Dakota for better gas mileage. Stuck with Dodge due to the reliability of my old Ram. Unfortunately, my Dakota has been in the shop ten times over the last year. Three for wheel vibrations that appear to be fixed for now, and seven for belt problems that still are not resolved. Belt tensioner broke at 4000 miles. Since then it has been through three additional belts and in-and-out of the shop for belt squeel when making tight turns in parking lots. Should have contacted a Lemon-Law attorney before it went out of waranty as a friend has the same truck and has never experienced this problem. Other than that, it's a pleasure to drive, and looks great too.

Dodge Dakota - Drive the best!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned Dodge Dakotas since 1991. I have seen the evolution of this truck. I now have the latest 2006 Quad Cab Sport SLT 4.7 high output. What stands out - Heavy duty truck! Very strong and stiff frame, solid sturdy cab and body. Braking is good. Great styling, very comfortable interior. Ram wheels bolt on for instant 20" look. What it lacks - fuel economy, H.O. 4.7 lacks power (compared to the old 5.2 & 5.9 & some V6's) yet has plenty of grunt with bolt on upgrades. Trans is slow to downshift. Body roll on higher speed cornering. Changing oil is messy. The oil drains onto the trans x-member and creates a 15 inch cascading mess. None-the-less, a very impressive truck. Solid.

Great quality and design!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Dakota has been a wonderful vehicle for my family. From the comfortable seating for a family of four, to accountability. It was by far very affordable, with all of the extra equipment, compared to other makes!

Pretty good Ride

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I drive this truck every day. My only complaint is that the gas mileage is significantly less than advertised.

Buy one, you will love it

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drive mostly highway and I am getting about 20-21 MPG on the highway. I love this truck, It's the first truck I have ever owned. I only wish I would have gotten the V8. I like the V6. I would go out and buy another Dodge and not think twice about it. I have not had one problem with it and I have 12,300 mile on it.