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Dodge Dakota Auto Tranny Problems

hd_lowriderhd_lowrider Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Dodge
I have a 1997 Dodge Dakota Sport 4x4 Extended Cab
with the small V8 and auto transmission with only
14k miles on it. In the last 2,000 miles the local
Dodge dealer has overhauled the tranny once and
then replaced it. Unfortunatly the new tranny is
having the same problem (Slipping between 1st and
2nd when warmed up). Two colleagues at work with
the same truck are going through the same
experience. Does anybody know what Dodge's problem
with transmissions are? I understand Neons and
Mini-vans like to eat trannies also.
«134

Comments

  • ggosselinggosselin Member Posts: 22
    They don't eat the trannies, they are just pieces of [non-permissible content removed] to start with. I went through the same problem with my ram that I finally lemon lawed after its third transmission. And by the way, that was the same trans. you have in your Dak.
    Called the A-727, it is put in all chrysler and dodge trucks, including the ones with the monster cummins engine. Makes sense, doesn't it?
  • ggosselinggosselin Member Posts: 22
    They don't eat the trannies, they are just pieces of [non-permissible content removed] to start with. I went through the same problem with my ram that I finally lemon lawed after its third transmission. And by the way, that was the same trans. you have in your Dak.
    Called the A-727, it is put in all chrysler and dodge trucks, including the ones with the monster cummins engine. Makes sense, doesn't it?
  • richram123richram123 Member Posts: 35
    GGosslein

    You are wrong about the trannies. My 98 Ram1500 has a 46RE auto tranny The 98 and 99 have this tranny. I agree that the older tranny (A-727) did have some problems. My tranny is fine at 15,000 miles. I also tow a boat once a week.


    Rich
  • wolffwolff Member Posts: 2
    I have been a Dodge man for many years and with the exception of the 89/90 4 speeds, Chrysler auto trannys are the best in the business. Quite frankly, if I were you post #1 I would change dealers. Chyrsler's weak link, and they know it is the dealers and their piss poor quality in their service departments. Chrysler is trying to do something about the dealers but is having a fight.
    I also have a 97 Dak with the 318 and 4 speed, I beat the crap out of it and have had no problems with anything in it.
    One more thing, if you think a Ford or GM would be any better, check out their reps for automatic transmissions. They are always in the shop. Fords are notorious for "morning sickness" and GM, well, I have yet to see a GM that lasts period.
    Getting back to the original point, try a different dealer, find one that will actually try to fix things rather than just go through the motions.
  • fastdodgedfastdodged Member Posts: 1
    As a owner of a 98 Dodge Dakota 3.9 V6 with 22,800 miles on it the tranny is crap. Slips in and out of 2nd gear at 15,000 miles, take it in (problem: bad seal?????sure) get service report hard part failures all around. Dealer tells me they re-seal the tranny and the mechanic tells me else wise. Same thing has happened 3 more times trying to get a hold of someone at Daimler-Chrysler before i bring my lawyer.
  • mayemsmayems Member Posts: 2
    Count me in. '98 with 5.2L @49,000 miles. Hunts like hound dog on 1-2 shift. Go fast in 1st to get right to 3rd. Just started month ago. Going to dealer shop on July 14th. Should I get ready for the big one???
  • ggosselinggosselin Member Posts: 22
    richram123- You are correct about the trans.
    The 46RE is now used in all Chrysler rwd vehicles.
    It is mechanically identical to the old A-727, the only difference is that it is electronically controlled by the VCM. You're also right about Chevy trannies- they are just as bad. I own a '97 S-10 SS with the 4L60E auto which, by the way is the same scneario as the dodge- trans used to be called the 700R4, but is now electronically conrolled and called the 4L60E; it literally exploded while I was driving. Pan fell off while doing 85 on I-75 in Tampa, Fl. The rest is history. Dealer fixed under warranty- cost Chevy $2800. I can't say anything about Fords, I've never owned one.
  • lunkerlunker Member Posts: 1
    Considering a remaining 99 or upcoming 2000 Dakota SLT 4x4. Rave design and comfort reviews from friends and dealers....duh.....but have heard ghost stories and rumors about likely tranny probs down the road...or around the next bend...any input or comparative suggestions as opposed to other compacts? Want to tow a tent trailer or small fishing boat...thanks GV
  • spkirkspkirk Member Posts: 10
    M father-in-law has a 1999 Dakota extended cab SLT with the v-6 and the automatic transmission is doing fine after 5500 miles! Not a problem at all.
  • tpeters1tpeters1 Member Posts: 11
    I love my Dakota '98 w/5.2L engine auto, not even back to the dealer in the 18 months I have owned it. I owned a Chevy 1500 before this one not only did it leak oil from every gasket in the engine , I had drive shaft problems and plastic parts from inside the cab would continuly crack from the heat. The Chevy dealer was terrible and so was GM. I switched to Dodge and so far I'm a happy Dakota owner.
  • stagehandstagehand Member Posts: 3
    looking to purchase a 99 dakota cc with v-6,auto trans. i seem to be reading some real horror stories about these tranny's. i want to get one before the current rebate expires.Can anyone out there ease my anxiety before i drop $19000? any responses good or bad will be appreciated.
  • ericgericg Member Posts: 38
    Stagehand,
    If I were you I would wait for the 2000 dakotas. they are putting the jeep's 4.7L V8 in it. The tranny was designed along with the engine, so there are no problems. It will get better gas mileage and has more hp and torque. I wanted to order one but now I think i am going to get the ram.
  • darlen1darlen1 Member Posts: 1
    Have a 99 Dodge Dakota, V8 Engine. THE THING IS A PIECE OF JUNK! I currently have 8,000 miles on it and the truck is starting to fall apart. Broke down twice within the month. SMoke coming out of the hood, all gauges on dash went to zero, suddenly had extreme heat on my gas pedal and on the floorboard, air conditioner shut completely down, and my transmission was howling. Was told it was the OIL SENDING UNIT. Sent back on the road with all these conditions still existing and was told that it runs like a champ again. NOT! 1 1/2 days later, all the same problems re-occured. This time, they replaced the fan clutch, re-routed the wire harness for my gauges,and couldn't explain the heat on the floorboard although they witnessed it and were as suprised as I was that that amount of heat was there. So, instead of finding a factory authorized repair or contacting the engineers at Chrsyler, they decided to be creative (their words exactly) and wrap my exhaust manifold that sits directly against the firewall of the engine and my floorboard, with insullation. When asked if the factory approved this, they said NO! So, basically..... who knows what is wrong with the truck. All the problems still exist after having it in their service dept for 13 days. Makes you wonder huh? It is not to say that the trucks aren't great, others may disagree, but I certainly have got a LEMON and am finding out that these problems exist with a lot of the Dodge products. Just some info if interested.
  • ppoulinppoulin Member Posts: 7
    I've read on other posts that B&M makes a shift kit that corrects the problems with this transmission. I don't know how you can take this approach through a dealer, though.
  • chumbuschumbus Member Posts: 1
    I was looking to buy a yr 2000 Dakota Club Cab. I am not too sure about the transmission now that I have read these postings. I originally was concerned about the 4 cyl engine since Mitsubishi no longer made this one. So, I thought the 6 cyl would be great. Is the 4 cyl any good? or is the 6 cyl better? Now, should I just go with the manual 5spd transmission and save myself alot of heartache? Someone please respond, I need to make a decision fast.
  • sbreensbreen Member Posts: 14
    I test drove a 2K V6 5 speed and the Auto, the 5 speed has a good feel to it, decent acceleration. Do NOT get the 4 cyl, too big of a vehicle for that, IMO. I liked the dakota enough to consider getting one with a manual tranny and avoid the auto tranny blues, but in the end just didn't want to take the chance. I still like them, and talk to folks who own them and love their trucks.
  • cpariseaucpariseau Member Posts: 3
    I am considering purchasing a 1999 Dodge Dakota
    to use and pull a 5000 lb boat. After reading these reveiws and comments about the tranny, I wonder if it is worth the investment. I know the horror stories I read here but the reviews don't support these horror stories...what about the Dakotas that are still running fine...should i pass on the Dakota???
  • tbalontbalon Member Posts: 2
    I purchased a 1999 Dakota SLT, V8, Auto, 4x4 a few months ago. About 3,000 miles with no transmission problems. The trans does shift a little hard a part throttle. Had the vehicle into the dealer three times to fix the evaporative control solenoid. We finally got some rain this weekend, about 24 hours worth, and I came out to find about 1" of standing water in my drivers footwell. Pulled the interior trim and determined with a hose that the windshield is not installed correctly. Some of the sheetmetal under the dash is starting to rust. Not sure how this is going to work out but am forwarding this along as an FYI.
  • sprmansprman Member Posts: 1
    had the truck for only 3months and the trans has been replased twice i trade it in its junk.
  • fjb1fjb1 Member Posts: 2
    I have a 1998 slt club cab with 3.9l and AT. exactly two years old and 28.5K miles. only problems are light switch came off and had to be replaced and the gear shift knob came off and was reglued. transmission has been fine. hope it stays that way.
  • jag79jag79 Member Posts: 1
    Hmmm, it does seem difficult to call - given various postings I've seen. Drove one this evening (std. cab 2WD R/T)... really liked it.
    Power & torque could easily be a bad suprise in the hands of an amateur or unaware driver. But a hell of a lot of fun to drive in able hands!
    Because at the time - you could'nt get a Dodge CC Full size - I owned two Ford F350 Crew Cabs (used to tow my Dodge drag cars ), first was an 89 Diesel Dually Automatic, second was 94 Turbo diesel automatic...both had a dictionary of expensive problems not covered by warranty. Unless Volvo starts building 'em - I will NEVER own a Ford truck again.
    Every Dodge I have ever owned has been awesome - so I am having a hard time getting "turned-off" due to some folks less than favorable experiences. These days, cars are like houses or almost any thing you can think of - if you get one good to begin with, you'll have a good one, if it's a lemon to start with - that's what you have. Problem is, you don't know which you've got till after you buy. Any thoughts on the R/T Dakota will be much appreciated. Sincerest thanks! :)
  • pdcpdc Member Posts: 6
    I bought a 99 RT reg. cab last October fresh out of dealership. Have logged just over 12000 miles and, other than a cable adjustment on the trans to alleviate a 1st to 2nd shift that previously did not occur under low rev until 30 MPH, I have not had a drip of problem. The vehicle gets around 15 MPG around town and is a rocket. I'm nearing 50 and don't enjoy the true performance potential of the truck. I'm looking to unload it in the near future. If anyone's interested, I need $20,000--about 5 grand off sticker.
  • andy_jordanandy_jordan Member Posts: 764
    OK you guys, anyone who knows their way around the Dodge topics at Edmunds must have known I would offer my few cents worth eventually (hey they're Canadian cents so what the hell).

    In response to various issues raised here:

    Auto trannys - yes they have had problems, yes so does everyone elses. Dodge's problem is that their trannys seem to fail somewhat more quickly and / or dramatically. The new V8 from Jeep brings the new Jeep tranny and DaimlerChrysler has set up a specialist team to address the transmission issues - they are due to come up with their first report this month. The team is headed by the Senior VP in charge of powertrains - they are taking this seriously. The decision has already been taken to build a brand new auto box for the redesigned Ram - that is new from the ground up, not based on anything currently available.

    4 cylinder engines - forget it they aren't available in 2000.

    Dakota R/T. Great truck, but not if you want to tow. Dodge made a major error with tow capacities. They claimed 6,000 pounds for 98 & 99 R/Ts, true figure is 2,000 pounds.

    Just my thoughts for what its worth.
  • doubled3doubled3 Member Posts: 1
    Does anyone have any information on the 5 speed manual transmissions for the 2000 models? I want to trade in my 99 Dakota for a 4WD version after seeing those little front wheel drive cars drive past me in the sand while I was spinning my wheels.
  • andy_jordanandy_jordan Member Posts: 764
    Sorry the 4 cyl is still available - but forget it anyway, just not up to the job.

    DoubleD, far as I understand it there are no major changes for the stick shift in 2000. I am sure some tweaks were necessary to strap it onto the new motor, but my understanding is it is essentially the same box - if mine ever turns up I'll let you know.
  • andy_jordanandy_jordan Member Posts: 764
    OK, just found out that for the crew cab (probably the same for others) the NV3500 standard box will be used with both the 3.9 liter V6 and the 4.7 liter V8. This is the same box that was used on the 99 5.2, but is not the same as was used for the 99 3.9.
  • cstappcstapp Member Posts: 2
    Looking to buy a 2000 Dakota Club SLT 4x4, w4.7L V8 and 4-speed Auto Trans with all the extras. Wondering when the dealer's invoice prices will be public before I go shopping. Hope (doesn't sound like it) these tranny problems don't apply in 2000 models.
  • 95slt95slt Member Posts: 1
    I have a 95 Dodge Dakota w/the 5.2
    When the overdrive kicks in it makes a loud clapping noise. Has anybody ever heard this before. It shifts into overdrive fine, just w/the noise attached.
  • ralexanderralexander Member Posts: 1
    Any Information on headers and exhaust upgrade (dual w/cross over) with correct oxygen sensor setup for '97 318 4x4 extended cab would be greatly appreciated.

    Thanks, Rich.
  • etagetag Member Posts: 14
    Hi Andy and everyone
    my opinion is that everyone elses auto transmissions DO NOT have problems.
    Try a toyota or a nissan

    RP
  • eddieo1eddieo1 Member Posts: 2
    I AM THINKING OF BUYING A 1997 DAKOTA PICKUP V6
    AUTOMATIC TRANS ANY INFO IT HAS 17000 MILES
    HE WANTS 10,900
  • barbarajobarbarajo Member Posts: 27
    I have a 1997 Dakota SLT+ Club Cab 4x2 with the 5.2L engine and Auto Transmission with 40k miles on it. Everything has been great with this truck, except for the Goodyear Wrangler R/T's being out of round (a known problem). No transmission problems at all.

    (By the way, if anyone's interested, it's for sale ... see www.cowspot.com for details)
  • rd8rd8 Member Posts: 2
    I really like Dodge trucks. Unfortunately I'm jumping ship over the on-going problems with automatic
    transmissions. My Ram Charger just died due to its
    3rd transmission failure. The first one went out
    while the truck was still under warranty. The
    second time, it cost nearly 2K to fix it and it
    lasted for about 20K miles. The third time I
    decided it was down for the count. As much as I hate
    to agree with the suggestion that Dodge's auto
    transmissions are inherently defective, my own
    experience is that it's true.

    I'm looking at Toyotas now. They cost too
    much but they don't break like most American cars.
    I had a Toyota years ago, drove it places I
    wouldn't drive a tank, and it still ran like a champ until an elderly lady hit me head on and totaled it.
  • arcolaarcola Member Posts: 1
    I've got a '93 Dakota, 4x4 V6 with 120k miles on it. The original transmission went out at 70,500 and the dealer was good enough to cover it under my 70k warranty. The dealer couldn't get one so he ordered the components and built it up in the shop. Now 50k miles later there is a rumbling/clattering when cold, in gear and foot on the brake. I am taking it in today. I'm looking at a new Dakota, thinking about a '99 but maybe should opt for the 2000. Except for the transmission, I have had great luck with the truck. Just wish I could get the 8' box on the 4x4 chassis again.
  • arussellarussell Member Posts: 6
    Looking to buy a 2000 Dakota with 4.7L/5-speed tranny. Are these problems only with the automatic? Is anyone aware of any problems with the 5-speed paired with this motor. Has anyone had problems/issues with the motor itself. I've looked all through the Jeep site & see the same tranny problems & only praise for the motor. Any thoughts?
  • sack16sack16 Member Posts: 2
    Bought a 95 club cab V8 AT. With 37000 miles the tranny went. When I went to the dealer they said the warranty was out. Shame on me for not getting the extended warranty. I contacted Dodge Corp. when I asked them if they were going to stand by their product they offered to pay half of the bill (rebuilt or new) Now 20000 miles later when I shift from park to drive or reverse I engages real hard, it almost sound like someone is hitting the tranny with a hammer. Does this happen to anyone else? I afraid that the tranny is going to go again? Any suggestions?
  • rivadogrivadog Member Posts: 1
    I have a 93 4 By 318 with 120000 miles and the only problem I had is the computer croked at 60000 miles. Never a whisper from the trans. I clunks now when I put it in gear, but it is the U joints.

    Anyone know about the new 4.7Liter. I'm thinking real hard about buying one. I figure I should get rid of the old truck while I can still get a few grand on trade in.
  • squiishysquiishy Member Posts: 1
    I'm currently looking at 2 different Dakotas. Both are 4x4 ext. cab 5.2 L.. The only difference is the tranny and the distance. The auto is about the right price, and is 10 mi. up the road at the local bank. The 5 speed is 1400 mi. away in Phoenix, also at a good price. Comments, suggestions, recommendations? All will be greatly appreciated. Thanks
  • harryg1harryg1 Member Posts: 2
    I get kick out of listening to all of these tranny
    problems....I have a '93 3.9 4x4 ext. cab (85,000 miles)and have never had an once of problems with the trans. It does, however, make a
    clunk when it goes from 2nd to 3rd. It's made this noise for the past 15,000 miles.
    You all make me think about dumping this great,
    loyal truck before it gets into some big$$$.
    This truck has been the most dependable thing
    I have ever owned. Should I sink or swim with this truck????? Help
  • blakemore1blakemore1 Member Posts: 1
    I JUST BOUGHT A 2000 DODGE DAKOTA 4.7 LITRE CLUB CAB. RUNS EXCELLENT, VERY QUIET, THE TRANSMISSION DOES SHIFT A LITTLE ROUGH. OVERALL GREAT VEHICLE. THE COLOR IS AWESOME. FLAME RED
  • scm23scm23 Member Posts: 1
    I just ordered a 2000 Dakota 4X4 Sport with Auto trans. I'm not obligated to buy it so I want to make sure the auto trans is going to hold up. Is the manual better, same or worse? I haven't seen too many comments on the manual so far, just one from my dealer saying that they were worse but I think he has other interests in mind (like his take on the deal) What do ya think?
  • mck3mck3 Member Posts: 6
    3 kids makes me look t'ward Dakota for room. A test ride proved height makes it hard to lift the kids in and out. The ride had me involuntarily in and exhaling. And worst of all, after 15 min. the lumbar and over contoured seat left me with a sore back. I don't have a bad back, but find myself taking the for sale sign off my ranger until I can figure out how to pad the seat so I can live with it. I don't see any lighter suspension available and if it's even available, smaller tires seem like the only adjustment in height on a 4x4. I love this truck, any ideas on tweaking it?......mck3
  • jwm2jwm2 Member Posts: 43
    scm23. I just picked up an ordered 2000 Dakota Sport with the 5sp. trans. Only 117 miles on it so far. For me I like the 5 sp. Shifts great and I feel that the seats are very comfortable, much more that the Chevy S10 which I was considering. This is a 4x4 with the 10x31 tires. Ride is very good and on the interstate the truck has no wind or tire noise. I know they don't sell a lot of em with the 5 sp but if you don't mind shifting and get a little sportier feel, I would go that route. Then you don't have to worry about fixing a exspensive transmisson problem down the road.??
    The 4.7L motor is a good running motor but it's to early to really give a good report on it yet. Starts everytime and runs hard off the line if I punch it a little. I like it.
    Mck3 I'm not sure if this is a family type truck. Unfortunately they don't have a 3rd door and room in the back of the cab isn't the roomiest. Only thing I can think of is to add running boards or nerf bars for ease of getting in and out of a 4x4.
    Jim
  • rlholmrlholm Member Posts: 37
    If you have 3 kids, don't be cruel--get the quad cab version with 4 doors.
  • mck3mck3 Member Posts: 6
    rlholm, already considered a quad but I need the box length. Am dissapointed Dodge didnt do a club 4 dr.. Kids,ages 3,7,and 9, love the back seat compaired to ranger.{also have an econoline} Full size wont fit in garage so Dakota fits the bill. Cant believe I'm saying this but I'm going to sewing supply and see if my seamstress wife can sew me up seat pads. mck3
  • andy_jordanandy_jordan Member Posts: 764
    Sorry if this isn't relevant - but have you driven both seat combos? I have the bucket seats and love them, but it sounds from your post as if this might have been what caused the problems. If so what about the front bench? (Or vice versa if you drove the bench).
  • dakotaeddakotaed Member Posts: 1
    I bought a 99 Dakota 5.2 ,4x4, ext cab ,auto with all the "goodies", back in April. I have 6k miles on it and am waiting and listening. The trans. is just fine right now but I am having a problem with engine "spark knock" on acceleration.Its in the shop as I write. I was told there's a TSB on this problem but I guess thats ANOTHER topic. Hope I don't regret not buying the Tacoma!
  • andy_jordanandy_jordan Member Posts: 764
    Now that's funny!!
  • rlholmrlholm Member Posts: 37
    mck3, I'm not sure why Dodge didn't do 4 doors on the Club Cab. Maybe they will do it later but wanted to hit the Quad cab market first. I have a 1982 datsun pickup with a 6' bed I use for hauling stuff. 9 inches less isn't significant for me since plywood and 2X4s hang off the back anyway. I need to be able to combine trips hauling adults comfortably and stuff in the bed but in a compact form factor. It's a compromise. If you don't want to compromise, there's the full size market. Incidentally I rode in the back of that same datsun to school everyday when I was a kid, climbing over the seat, and triping over the seatbelt. It shouldn't surprise you I recommend the quad cab. Also last night I drove the Club Cab 4X4 V8 with the bench seat. My back instantly complains about bad seats. I found the seats very comfortable and the ride smooth. The ride was smoother than my Nissan Maxima (admittedly with performance suspension). Sorry your experience was not the same. Maybe the one you drove had the higher payload option.
  • mck3mck3 Member Posts: 6
    rlholm, It did have the 1800lb payload option. I was told by a couple of dealers I would'nt notice the difference. I tend to doubt their expertise as they cant seem to answer a lot of questions....
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