Sorry if this makes anyone Still waiting for their truck feel bad but.... My dealer called me yesterday late afternoon and said that the truck is complete and has been sent to the shipping company to deliver it. 4.7L V8 Automatic 4x4. I haven't heard of any shipping delays. So far they were only off by 3 days on the scheduled ship date.
Glad you are getting your truck, but 3 days off on shipping - I was given a shipping date just a week after i was given the date - sounds like they aren't even going to make that.
dkloss - not sure about this engine / tranny problem, haven't read of too many Grand Cherokees dropping engines or transmissions on the road, and that is what they're using to all intents and purposes.
Have a 99 R/T and just got my letter apologizing for not telling me about the 2000 lb towing restriction, which I suppose is due to the suspension package. (I had the same restriction on my 96 Ranger with the sport suspension).
The options I have with the letter are attractive: free 5yr/60,000 mile service contract; $500 worth of MOPAR accessories (which I have already spent and is retroactive); REPURCHASE of the vehicle (does that include all the dealer goodies and my $795 ARE aftermarket tonneau?); assistance (whatever that is) in replacing my Dakota with another MOPAR vehicle.
What are the rest of you thinking?? What is Mercedes - strike that - "DiamlerChrysler" thinking? Seems a bit extreme to me - is someone holding a gun to their corporate head?
Maybe I should get $48,000,000 since I can't haul my 6400lb horse trailer around. I don't have it yet, and, come to think of it, I guess I don't have any horses either, but maybe I'll get some one day.......
As I posted some time ago (at the time it happened), DC certainly do have a gun to their head. A case has been filed in California for a class action on behalf of Dakota owners like yourself.
The case stems around the fact that not all owners were offered the same deal - some people had buyback offers months ago. My guess is that DC are now making sure that everyone gets the offer now.
You want them to buy back the LSII, you funny man, real funny.
It sounds like towing isn't that big a deal to you, so probably worth taking up one of the options, maybe see if you can negotiate the assistance bit until you are ready to trade the vehicle - if you want to stick with DC of course.
I guess you could try and join the class action, but that would have to be your decision, you aren't getting any advice from me on that one - I like my butt bulletproof thank you.
I really like Dodge trucks. Unfortunately, I'm jumping ship over the on-going problems with 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. This the same transmission used in the Dakota!! 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 don't want to rain on anyone's parade, but as for myself, I'm looking at Toyotas. 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 until one day when an elderly lady hit me and totaled it.
I just went to my Dodge dealer today. They told me my 4x4, V8, 5speed SLT has been given a status of "UNBUILDABLE". They said if I would like to switch to the automatic, lose the limited slip rear, change out the wheels then they may be able to fill my order. I said thank you, please refund my deposit because I'm bailing!! I have been waiting since April for this ??? I left and went directly across the street to Toyota. Drove the Tacoma and then the Tundra. The Tundra is an UNBELIEVEABLE truck. It rides like a Lincoln, handles like a Honda (Rack & Pinion on the 4x4) and is quiet as a Lexus. This truck is phenominal. They don't offer the V8 with a stick but I drove the 24V V6 with a stick and it almost as responsive as the Dakota V8. You can actually sit in the back and it has 4 doors. I can comfortably sit in the back. The dealer let me take it home and putz around for a couple hours. I'm in Love... It's a bit more than the Dakota but they're not in the same league. I tried to give the American manufacturer(Dodge) some cash but they can't deliver. All you 4x4, V8, 5speeders out there, get your [non-permissible content removed] down to Dodge and tell them to fess up. The shows over...Sorry to bring bad news but I feel you all deserve to know what I now know. I will be checking out the Tundra Forums and wish you all the best...
Well I have just purchased my first Chrysler product in more than 28 years, a Dakota Sport CC with almost every option available. I'm hopeful the 4.7 with cooresponding transmission stands up to what little stress a 50 yr old, ex drag racer, can put it under. Best part, it was on the lot and got it for $50 over invoice. Nice Truck! I only hope to be able to post positive remarks two years from now.
Just about to buy a 2000 Dakota. 4.7L with 5-speed tranny. My dealer says he's got one in "C" status, which means it's a frame, motor and tranny waiting on options. He says he can get it for me. You guys with this problem may want to inquire about doing the same thing.
Anyways, are these tranny problems central to the automatic? Has anyone experienced any problems with the 5-speed mated with the V8?
Does anyone have any complaints/issues about the motor itself?
I have researched this on the Jeep page, as the motor is Jeep's & have seen nothing but praise for the motor. For more info, you may want to check out the Jeep page of Edmunds, as it is the same motor, same tranny (I believe) & same problems. The problems are documented much more frequently on their page.
Any cons that are an issue on the motor/5-speed would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Can't give you personal experiences because as you have probably read I don't have my truck yet (should be shipped today). I haven't read the jeep postings, but I haven't heard any stories of problems.
The Dodge tranny problems have been centred around the automatics, and should be eased by the new jeep engine / tranny combinations. I heard some rumors about problems mating the transmission to the engine (can't remember whether it was stick or auto), but I don't put too much faith in the rumor because the combination has been used so successfully in Grand Cherokee.
Sounds like the truck you refer to is a dealer truck scheduled to hit a forecourt for the official launch of the model year. If you can get what you want on it then it sounds like a good buy, but negotiate a good deal because your dealer hasn't got to carry the cost of having the truck on his forecourt. Because of the way that dealers and DC operate your dealer will still make a profit on such a truck by selling to you at invoice.
Thanks Andy. The motor/auto configuration was not used so successfully in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Check out the forum for Jeep. There are just shy of 300 entries, most from owners with complete transmission failures. Some have gone through three in under 10K! - not happy people.
I'm not too concerned about the 5-speed. If Dodge can screw up a 5-speed, then they won't be in business too much longer. I'm more concerned about getting a truck with a relatively new motor. Jeep put it in the 99 Grand Cherokee, but all the problems I can find are with the auto tranny, which I believe is the same as the Dodge.
As far as I can tell, the motor with a 5-speed should be a good combo - supposedly stronge than the 5.2 of old (which wasn't bad). I'm taking one on an extended test drive today in the Rockies. I've got a 2500 lb. boat to pull. I might even hook it up if I can get away with it.
Has anyone heard the buyback price yet on the R/T's? I called the hotline but they don't know their f*c#ing [non-permissible content removed] from their elbow! I'm gonna sell mine back (99 loaded) if I'm not gonna get beat on the price. This is a load of BS.
They'll probably want to charge owners per mile on the trucks as if they were leased!
******If anyone has info on the class action suit please post it or e-mail it to me, there should definitely be some compensation for people who waited for these trucks, or got stuck with a trailer or boat they couldn't pull, or were getting ready to purchase something they would have to tow. P.S. - anyone looking to buy an R/T should wait, there's gonna be alot of barely used ones on the lot soon...
According to James Bragg ("Car Buyer's and Leaser's Negotiating Bible"), this is a legitimate charge levied on the dealer at a per vehicle rate, according to region of the country. Check out his web site, www.fightingchance.com. BTW, I'm faxing about 14 dealers tomorrow with a Request for Quote on a 99 SLT 4x4. $300 over invoice sounds like a decent price for a 2000.
According to James Bragg ("Car Buyer's and Leaser's Negotiating Bible"), this is a legitimate charge levied on the dealer at a per vehicle rate, according to region of the country. Check out his web site, www.fightingchance.com. BTW, I'm faxing about 14 dealers tomorrow with a Request for Quote on a 99 SLT 4x4. $300 over invoice sounds like a decent price for a 2000.
You mentioned the truck getting squirrely, just wondering if it had the tire and handling package or the limited slip diff., or both. I have ordered a similar truck with both but haven't gotten to drive one. Thanks.
With all the different charges, it becomes $709 over invoice. Don't recall paying but $100 flatout when I bought a Jeep 4 1/2 years ago. I am going to contact as many dealers as possible. Where did you get all the fax #'s? Thanks for the website...
Going to drive the handling pkg. & limited slip diff. soon.
Go back and read posting #57 for an idea of what a Dakota can be purchased for. I offered $50 over invoice right off the bat and the dealer accepted it. Wonder what kind of response I would have had for an "at invoice" offer. Try it..what do you have to loose ? All they can say is no.. but they WILL negotiate. Happy Motoring. P.S. I had the same trouble at first with the console but after one day I can open it one handed, just need to learn the technique. P.S.S. If they won't sell at $50 above invoice come to Indianapolis, the dealer here will.
Actually from Indy & will be back in two weeks. Not a bad idea...
I haven't even really gotten to grind them down at all. They know I did my homework, as I was at the lot every day for about two weeks. Some time ago, I told the salesman that I planned on shopping around for the best deal. They've left themselves some room.
Two things: I just got a Dakota for $100 over invoice in upstate NY, with no trouble. Dealer did not even bat an eye. So, not as good as jbauer, but it shows they will negotiate.
The advertising charge is legitimate, but it is also negotiable. The charge here was about 1% of MSRP, which is considered adequate. Of course different markets have different advertising costs, so it could be a bit higher out west.
I was "amused" by the charger for gas. I guess you only get a free tank if you have the standard size, my truck has the 22-gal tank, therefor the extra charge. I was even more amused by the $20 Owner Communication Program. I understand it is to cover all the mostly junk mail that Daimler will now be sending me...
Arussel In order for me to get a Dakota with the 5 sp built I had to go to a 3:92 rear. So it's my understanding you can't get one built with a 3:55. One question for everyone else on making their deals at the dealerships. Why are you offering anything over invoice for a starting point? Heck I started below invoice knowing full well what the dealer would say. Ha! "We can't sell below our cost". So knowing I couldn't go down anymore I offered invoice price. What happened after that did surprise me. They accepted the offer. Of course big deal. I still don't have a date yet for when it's supposed to get built. Dealer said I should be finding out any day now. Boy I sure hope so. I've had my order in since 7/21. Also I have mentioned this some time before but just incase you don't know make sure you sign up as a Farm Buerue (sp)member. For a $40.00 membership you get a $500.00 bill for your new Dakota. But you need to be a member for 30 days. Andy, is your truck built already? Hope all works out ok for you.
I knew that it wouldn't last. Not only did my truck get shipped yesterday (I'm being optimistic), I had a call from the accessories store to say he had already got:
ARE LSII tonneau (he said the colour was great (Patriot Blue)) Step protectors SS Nerf Bars 3 part bug deflector
This meant that all he had left was to paint the bug deflector and order the SS grille guard.
Then it went wrong
He phoned back 10 minutes later to say that no manufacturer had approved their SS grilles guards for 2000 models, and probably wouldn't be in a position to do so for around a month.
I think I'll just go into a dark, quiet corner and cry.
I didn't offer anything to them. As much research as they know I've done, coupled with daily visits to the dealer to look at the truck (don't know how many times I said, please just let me look. No, I'm not ready to talk price & no, I don't have any questions), I wanted to see what the salesman is made of. I used to work for a used dealership (very crooked at that) in high school & know most of the tricks. I'm also a salesman, so I've got'em loaded when I get to the point of talking price.
This dealership is in my town. The one I really want to deal with is in a rural area with gravel lots with mostly trucks on them. I've found that these guys are about as honest as a dealer can be. That's what happens when you sell to your neighbors & acquaintences. I'm going to see him today and see what he will do. If I have to pay these advertising expenses, etc, etc, I'm not paying over invoice on the truck. I'll flat out tell this guy that.
Some have remarked about the advertising fee for Dakotas. While this is a legit fee, it can (and should)be eaten by the dealer. After all, he is receiving "payback" for his advertising costs through my purchasing a vehicle. Don't forget, of course, about the 3% dealer hold back. This is money they receive from Chrysler for each auto sold. It's 3% of the MSRP. So, technically, they can sell under the invoice and still make a nice profit. But $50-$100 over invoice isn't bad. I was offered a 2000 Dakota 4WD Club for $199 over invoice (Northern VA)but refuse to pay $440 for his advertising costs. And I never had to pay for gas for any new vehicle I ever bought. What genius at Chrysler thought that one up?
Took delivery last night, go a valve train noise from the right side that I can here from behind the wheel; annoying kind of sound that I am sure no service manager can hear. Anyone else got the same kind of buzz going on; if I put it in neutral the sound goes away; you can hear it in the cab at freeway speeds but it's almost like a piece of trim buzzing in the wind. Help. JOHN HOUTS
I'm thinking about buying a 2000 Dakota 4x4 ext cab v-6 auto trans,but I'm starting to worry about all the tranny problems.Anyone got one yet,and how do you like it?I won't be towing anything,just need to get to work during blizzards.
jethro for what it's worth i have had 2 dakotas. i had a 94 that i traded for my new 99. the 94 had 90,000 miles with no trouble what so ever. the 99 only has 7000 miles. also, with no trouble... my brother in law is an ase mechanic at a local dodge dealer. he said that in his 5 years with the dealership he has not seen ANY tranny problems in any of the trucks.
Thanks for the info., billman.I already changed my mind to the 4.7 V-8 AUTO.Once again,anyone got one and how do you like it?I want to order my dakota this week.
Got some good news today. Salesman told me he has a build date of 10-6-99. I didn't think it was going to actually happen for awhile. The 5sp. trans. was the last holdup for some reason. I believe it possably was the emissions. Andy Jordan and Arussell. Have you recieved your Dakota's yet? How are they running? Any problems?
Has anyone heard the 0-60 time for a 2000 4X4 Sport with the 4.7l engine, 4 sp auto and 3.55 gear ratio? I am ordering mine next week and want to make the right choice on gear ratios. Also can you just get the 3.92 axle without the full time transfer case or the limited slip rear end? Please help, I need to make a decision. Thanks. Shawn
Sorry for ducking off the face of the earth for a couple of weeks, but am back now.
Picked up my Dakota on Monday - couldn't be happier.
4.7 V8, Standard, SLT+, 4x4, Patriot Blue club cab. I have had a Penda drop in liner and A.R.E. LSII tonneau installed along with stainless steel nerf bars. Should have had a bug deflector too, but the paint shop screwed up on the color matching so its gone back. Should have it installed in a week or so. Then just waiting for stainless steel grille guards - no manufacturer has yet approved them for installation on a 2000 model.
Only just got the truck run in (750 km), but so far everything is great, nice smooth ride, great handling and awesome power. The new 4.7 engine is incredible. The handbook advises 'brief periods of full throttle acceleration' to assist with running in. Well I just had to try that. Got to about 80kmh (50mph) in 4th and put my foot down. A few seconds later 130kmh (81mph), still in 4th, still accelerating at a great rate and the engine is purring along at 3400rpm.
Andy Jordan Glad to hear you like the truck and it's working out so well. Are the bed insert and tonneau cover mopar parts or are they after market parts?
I got quotes for Mopar and had a good laugh - about $4,500 Canadian for tonneau, nerf bars, liner & grille guards.
Went to a local dealer who quoted less than $3,000 Canadian and his price was including tax and upgrading nerf bars / grille guards from chromed to stainless steel. He also threw in the bug deflector and some door sill protectors and gave me a break on the price for buying everything.
Anyway to come back to your question, the drop in liner is by Penda, this is virtually identical to the Mopar (Penda makes them for Dodge). The only difference is that on the front of the bed the word Dodge is replaced by the word Custom. It even has the cup holders in the tailgate portion that Mopar claim are exclusive to them.
I went A.R.E. for the tonneau because I like the look and fit - A.R.E. match the design to the hood of the truck for which it is made. I also like the fact that A.R.E. use a steel hinge in addition to the gas strut which reduces stress on the truck bed.
I've been in the market for a new vehicle and have narrowed down the field to the Dakota and the Chevy Blazer. One of the things I've noticed is there are much fewer horror stories associated with the Dakota. However, I have a few questions I'm hoping some current Dakota owners might answer:
1) I'm considering some combo of the sport package with 2WD and the 6 cylinder engine. Given my planned use (some occasional light hauling but no real towing), this should be enough juice under the hood. Is there anyone out there who is disappointed in the 6 and wishes they had gotten the 8 instead?
2) When researching the Dakota, did anyone have any concerns regarding quality?
3) I'm considering the club cab (the extended cab, not the 4-door). It's definitely the biggest cab of the small trucks, but how is the ride in the back for the occasional adult?
4) For those that might have had some warranty work done, how has Dodge been responding to your needs?
Thanks in advance for any answers you can provide.
Some of you may recognize me as the Sedans Conference Host. As of last Monday, I'm a Dakota owner. How I got from a 6-speed Legend coupe to a Dakota is something of a mystery to me.
Let's just say that I've entertained the idea of getting a truck in the past for their utility. I'm also purchasing a house in the near future. My Legend needed tires, a couple rust spots touched up and a few odds and ends. The local dealer advertised a slightly used (9K) 99' 4x4 CC Dakota with a V8 and a 5-speed. My wife has had her Neon serviced there and they have been spectacular in dealing with her. As an ex-13.1-second Mustang 5.0 owner, I have a hankerin' for those old V8's. Don't get me wrong; I thoroughly enjoyed my Integra GS-R. The performance aftermarket for the 318 is fully matured. We stopped by, just to check it out and they appraised my Legend at about $1,000 over what I had previously determined as a fair offer. A little negotiation dropped the price of the truck. The price, not having to deal with near-future costly maintenance and the fact that my wife absolutely loved the truck sealed the deal. Which, brings me to my next question...
I told my wife that we could get the truck (I'm a car guy.) if... I get to have some fun tinkering with it. So... I've shopped around a bit and the header/cat-back exhaust combo seems to be JBA's and Gibson for the price/performance. I had JBA's for the Mustang and was very pleased; The DC fitment, I'm assuming, works just as well? Have any of you installed these mods? What about intakes and heads? Any recommendations?
If the 50 in your name indicates your age I'm right there with you. I just purchased a 2000 Sport, cc, 4.7 auto. The V-6 is only figured to get one (1)mpg better mileage. It's not worth the difference in H.P., which I test quite frequently. My truck runs EXTREMELY good, the truck has great low end torque and will set you back in the seat! The resale on the V-8 will be better than the V-6. Go for the V-8, you're only getting older and when you get too old a 4 cylinder may have too much pep! I've only had my truck for three weeks, 1200 miles on it now and I have not noticed any problems, rattles, leaks, squeeks, nothing. Really like the truck and bought it for $50 over invoice. (No trade in) If your not concerned with the resale value and your not interested in "Smokin the Tires" then the V-6 will do fine. But if you want some of your youth back...go for the 4.7. Hope you enjoy your decision.
Just picked up my 2000 Dakota Sport with the 4.7L motor and a 5sp trans. I think I just put 47 miles on it tonight. It sure was worth the wait. What a great truck. Has a great ride put the windows up going down the interstate tonight. Real quiet inside. Better than the wifes Aurora for quietness. And of course I really can't qualify the power yet it's still moves very well. I'll have to break it in a little more before I can tell you much about the power it has. Can't say yet either about the service but the salesman that helped me was very informative and helpful. Was surprised that for a lot of the accessarries he was acutally telling of other shops to buy some of the equipment for it as apposed to the dealer mopar parts. Yep I'm every bit of 50 myself and a little; but tonight we just got back a few good years. :-)
I noticed that no one had responded to your comments about the rear seats so let me try. I wasn't too worried about rear room because the usual rear occupant will be a dog, but I had my sister visiting right after I got the truck and we did a 400km (250mi) round trip the day after I picked the truck up.
Now I should point out that she is on thay tall (only 5'2"), but she sat behind my wife who had her (bucket) seat nearer the back of the range than the front. My sister sid that she had no problems, and indeed she seemed comfortable. Not sure that I would fancy the trip with large guys in the back, but the bench certainly seems manageable if necessary.
Andy Jordan We must have simular ideas for the back seat. That's where my lab will be sitting come pheasant season and anyother ocursion that I will have her tagging along with me. I agree it's not the best for a 6' person but ok for smaller people and my dog of course probably won't complain to much however long the trip may be.
I have to toss in my $0.02. The back of my 2000 Dakota has been great for both dog and 4-year old; together or one-at-a-time. My daughter loves the fact that she has a "cozy" spot that is mostly all her own, and the dog loves the sliding rear window. My wife gave the back a "test drive" and said it would be ok for short trips, but people will probably want to draw straws for any long trips!
I'm 5 foot and my Husband was sitting in the front passenger seat of the 2000 extended cab. It is not too comfortable. I have short legs but this was pushing it for me (and we only went about 2 miles). You sit straight up and the leg room really stinks. OK for kids and dogs(of course another Lab!) but HU-MANS...NOT! We can't wait until Nov..I'll be getting a QUAD and my Husband, a 4x4 extended cab. Have fun everybody!
We are contemplating buying a Dakota for use with a telescoping, slide-in camper from 4Wheel Campers. Has anyone had any experience with this type of camper on a Dakota? We are concerned about the payload. The camper weighs about 1150 pounds. The stated payload is 1450, so that leaves just enough poundage for my husband and me! What if we want to bring along food? ;-> Anyone familiar with actual payload figures? Towing capacity is not of concern.
You do have an option for an 1800 payload rating. Check out Microsoft's carpoint pricing guide.Has all the options to choose from with prices. (http://carpoint.msn.com/)
Those Campers are mainly for full size P/U's. The mid-size trucks, (DAKOTA) don't really do them justice. Besides you can eat up 1800 lbs real quick when you load in equipment!
My truck came in yesterday and I picked it up last night. Don't think I have stopped smiling since then. It is even nicer than I was expecting. It's a 2wd Club Cab v8 5spd in driftwood. It has the SLT+, 4wheel abs, and limited slip differential. Without a doubt it can get up and move. Have one question. The oil gauge is running on the high end of normal and wanted to know if this was typical or not. Thanks.
Brian, I have a 4.7L CC 4x4 with a 5 sp. And as she is getting broke in now with a little over 400miles it does seem to be running better. My oil presure is running on the high side also. I have just assumed for the time being that would be normal. It would be best to bring that to the attention of your dealer soon so they can at least make a note of that issue during your warrenty period.
Jim & Brian: I also have a new 4.7 and the oil pressure gauge is on the high side. That is good! When bearings wear, cam bearings especially, seals get hard and things just aren't as new and tight as they used to be you will see a decrease in oil pressure. But for now be :-) A new engine will and should carry high oil pressure. When I was drag racing it wasn't at all uncommon for the big block chevy to carry 70-80 lbs. of oil pressure, although we were running 50w oil. Regardless, your engines are just fine. Enjoy your new ride.
My 4.7 l Dak came in a few days ago- 6 weeks after I ordered it.I was not able to get the Deep Garnet Red; was told it was "on restriction", so I got the flame red instead.Makes a 52 year old feel like a kid again. Good power in the 4.7.BTW, you should refer to Edmund's for info on what price to pay for a vehicle.DON'T pay the holdback or other manufacturer's rebates/incentives.
Good luck on not paying the dealer holdback. Actually I thought holdback was paid to the dealer from the manufacturer. Most dealers will not let you tap their holdback.
Just got our new Dakota SLT 4.7, 5 speed and do I love it. I'm also a 50 something guy that wanted to be rejuvenated a little and I think this truck will help do just that. It has the limited slip differential, and the 2000 lbs payload package. I'll send in more data once I've had a chance to run this baby a little. I'm as happy as all the other guys I've read about for so long with their new trucks. Happy driving.
Comments
My dealer called me yesterday late afternoon and said that the truck is complete and has been sent to the shipping company to deliver it. 4.7L V8 Automatic 4x4. I haven't heard of any shipping delays. So far they were only off by 3 days on the scheduled ship date.
Shut up, Shut up, Shut up.
Glad you are getting your truck, but 3 days off on shipping - I was given a shipping date just a week after i was given the date - sounds like they aren't even going to make that.
dkloss - not sure about this engine / tranny problem, haven't read of too many Grand Cherokees dropping engines or transmissions on the road, and that is what they're using to all intents and purposes.
The options I have with the letter are attractive: free 5yr/60,000 mile service contract; $500 worth of MOPAR accessories (which I have already spent and is retroactive); REPURCHASE of the vehicle (does that include all the dealer goodies and my $795 ARE aftermarket tonneau?); assistance (whatever that is) in replacing my Dakota with another MOPAR vehicle.
What are the rest of you thinking?? What is Mercedes - strike that - "DiamlerChrysler" thinking? Seems a bit extreme to me - is someone holding a gun to their corporate head?
Maybe I should get $48,000,000 since I can't haul my 6400lb horse trailer around. I don't have it yet, and, come to think of it, I guess I don't have any horses either, but maybe I'll get some one day.......
The case stems around the fact that not all owners were offered the same deal - some people had buyback offers months ago. My guess is that DC are now making sure that everyone gets the offer now.
You want them to buy back the LSII, you funny man, real funny.
It sounds like towing isn't that big a deal to you, so probably worth taking up one of the options, maybe see if you can negotiate the assistance bit until you are ready to trade the vehicle - if you want to stick with DC of course.
I guess you could try and join the class action, but that would have to be your decision, you aren't getting any advice from me on that one - I like my butt bulletproof thank you.
I don't want to rain on anyone's parade, but as for myself, I'm looking at Toyotas. 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 until one day when an elderly lady hit me and totaled it.
Anyways, are these tranny problems central to the automatic? Has anyone experienced any problems with the 5-speed mated with the V8?
Does anyone have any complaints/issues about the motor itself?
I have researched this on the Jeep page, as the motor is Jeep's & have seen nothing but praise for the motor. For more info, you may want to check out the Jeep page of Edmunds, as it is the same motor, same tranny (I believe) & same problems. The problems are documented much more frequently on their page.
Any cons that are an issue on the motor/5-speed would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
The Dodge tranny problems have been centred around the automatics, and should be eased by the new jeep engine / tranny combinations. I heard some rumors about problems mating the transmission to the engine (can't remember whether it was stick or auto), but I don't put too much faith in the rumor because the combination has been used so successfully in Grand Cherokee.
Sounds like the truck you refer to is a dealer truck scheduled to hit a forecourt for the official launch of the model year. If you can get what you want on it then it sounds like a good buy, but negotiate a good deal because your dealer hasn't got to carry the cost of having the truck on his forecourt. Because of the way that dealers and DC operate your dealer will still make a profit on such a truck by selling to you at invoice.
I'm not too concerned about the 5-speed. If Dodge can screw up a 5-speed, then they won't be in business too much longer. I'm more concerned about getting a truck with a relatively new motor. Jeep put it in the 99 Grand Cherokee, but all the problems I can find are with the auto tranny, which I believe is the same as the Dodge.
As far as I can tell, the motor with a 5-speed should be a good combo - supposedly stronge than the 5.2 of old (which wasn't bad). I'm taking one on an extended test drive today in the Rockies. I've got a 2500 lb. boat to pull. I might even hook it up if I can get away with it.
I'm gonna sell mine back (99 loaded) if I'm not gonna get beat on the price. This is a load of BS.
They'll probably want to charge owners per mile on the trucks as if they were leased!
******If anyone has info on the class action suit please post it or e-mail it to me, there should definitely be some compensation for people who waited for these trucks, or got stuck with a trailer or boat they couldn't pull, or were getting ready to purchase something they would have to tow.
P.S. - anyone looking to buy an R/T should wait, there's gonna be alot of barely used ones on the lot soon...
Going to drive the handling pkg. & limited slip diff. soon.
I haven't even really gotten to grind them down at all. They know I did my homework, as I was at the lot every day for about two weeks. Some time ago, I told the salesman that I planned on shopping around for the best deal. They've left themselves some room.
Two things: I just got a Dakota for $100 over invoice in upstate NY, with no trouble. Dealer did not even bat an eye. So, not as good as jbauer, but it shows they will negotiate.
The advertising charge is legitimate, but it is also negotiable. The charge here was about 1% of MSRP, which is considered adequate. Of course different markets have different advertising costs, so it could be a bit higher out west.
I was "amused" by the charger for gas. I guess you only get a free tank if you have the standard size, my truck has the 22-gal tank, therefor the extra charge. I was even more amused by the $20 Owner Communication Program. I understand it is to cover all the mostly junk mail that Daimler will now be sending me...
One question for everyone else on making their deals at the dealerships. Why are you offering anything over invoice for a starting point? Heck I started below invoice knowing full well what the dealer would say. Ha! "We can't sell below our cost". So knowing I couldn't go down anymore I offered invoice price. What happened after that did surprise me. They accepted the offer.
Of course big deal. I still don't have a date yet for when it's supposed to get built. Dealer said I should be finding out any day now. Boy I sure hope so. I've had my order in since 7/21.
Also I have mentioned this some time before but just incase you don't know make sure you sign up as a Farm Buerue (sp)member. For a $40.00 membership you get a $500.00 bill for your new Dakota. But you need to be a member for 30 days.
Andy, is your truck built already? Hope all works out ok for you.
Course I'm not holding my breath.
ARE LSII tonneau (he said the colour was great (Patriot Blue))
Step protectors
SS Nerf Bars
3 part bug deflector
This meant that all he had left was to paint the bug deflector and order the SS grille guard.
Then it went wrong
He phoned back 10 minutes later to say that no manufacturer had approved their SS grilles guards for 2000 models, and probably wouldn't be in a position to do so for around a month.
I think I'll just go into a dark, quiet corner and cry.
Anyone know when the 2001s are out?
This dealership is in my town. The one I really want to deal with is in a rural area with gravel lots with mostly trucks on them. I've found that these guys are about as honest as a dealer can be. That's what happens when you sell to your neighbors & acquaintences. I'm going to see him today and see what he will do. If I have to pay these advertising expenses, etc, etc, I'm not paying over invoice on the truck. I'll flat out tell this guy that.
Andy Jordan and Arussell. Have you recieved your Dakota's yet? How are they running? Any problems?
Picked up my Dakota on Monday - couldn't be happier.
4.7 V8, Standard, SLT+, 4x4, Patriot Blue club cab. I have had a Penda drop in liner and A.R.E. LSII tonneau installed along with stainless steel nerf bars. Should have had a bug deflector too, but the paint shop screwed up on the color matching so its gone back. Should have it installed in a week or so. Then just waiting for stainless steel grille guards - no manufacturer has yet approved them for installation on a 2000 model.
Only just got the truck run in (750 km), but so far everything is great, nice smooth ride, great handling and awesome power. The new 4.7 engine is incredible. The handbook advises 'brief periods of full throttle acceleration' to assist with running in. Well I just had to try that. Got to about 80kmh (50mph) in 4th and put my foot down. A few seconds later 130kmh (81mph), still in 4th, still accelerating at a great rate and the engine is purring along at 3400rpm.
God I love this truck!!!!!!
Glad to hear you like the truck and it's working out so well. Are the bed insert and tonneau cover mopar parts or are they after market parts?
I got quotes for Mopar and had a good laugh - about $4,500 Canadian for tonneau, nerf bars, liner & grille guards.
Went to a local dealer who quoted less than $3,000 Canadian and his price was including tax and upgrading nerf bars / grille guards from chromed to stainless steel. He also threw in the bug deflector and some door sill protectors and gave me a break on the price for buying everything.
Anyway to come back to your question, the drop in liner is by Penda, this is virtually identical to the Mopar (Penda makes them for Dodge). The only difference is that on the front of the bed the word Dodge is replaced by the word Custom. It even has the cup holders in the tailgate portion that Mopar claim are exclusive to them.
I went A.R.E. for the tonneau because I like the look and fit - A.R.E. match the design to the hood of the truck for which it is made. I also like the fact that A.R.E. use a steel hinge in addition to the gas strut which reduces stress on the truck bed.
1) I'm considering some combo of the sport package with 2WD and the 6 cylinder engine. Given my planned use (some occasional light hauling but no real towing), this should be enough juice under the hood. Is there anyone out there who is disappointed in the 6 and wishes they had gotten the 8 instead?
2) When researching the Dakota, did anyone have any concerns regarding quality?
3) I'm considering the club cab (the extended cab, not the 4-door). It's definitely the biggest cab of the small trucks, but how is the ride in the back for the occasional adult?
4) For those that might have had some warranty work done, how has Dodge been responding to your needs?
Thanks in advance for any answers you can provide.
Let's just say that I've entertained the idea of getting a truck in the past for their utility. I'm also purchasing a house in the near future. My Legend needed tires, a couple rust spots touched up and a few odds and ends. The local dealer advertised a slightly used (9K) 99' 4x4 CC Dakota with a V8 and a 5-speed. My wife has had her Neon serviced there and they have been spectacular in dealing with her. As an ex-13.1-second Mustang 5.0 owner, I have a hankerin' for those old V8's. Don't get me wrong; I thoroughly enjoyed my Integra GS-R. The performance aftermarket for the 318 is fully matured. We stopped by, just to check it out and they appraised my Legend at about $1,000 over what I had previously determined as a fair offer. A little negotiation dropped the price of the truck. The price, not having to deal with near-future costly maintenance and the fact that my wife absolutely loved the truck sealed the deal. Which, brings me to my next question...
I told my wife that we could get the truck (I'm a car guy.) if... I get to have some fun tinkering with it. So... I've shopped around a bit and the header/cat-back exhaust combo seems to be JBA's and Gibson for the price/performance. I had JBA's for the Mustang and was very pleased; The DC fitment, I'm assuming, works just as well? Have any of you installed these mods? What about intakes and heads? Any recommendations?
Later,
Aaron
Can't say yet either about the service but the salesman that helped me was very informative and helpful. Was surprised that for a lot of the accessarries he was acutally telling of other shops to buy some of the equipment for it as apposed to the dealer mopar parts.
Yep I'm every bit of 50 myself and a little; but tonight we just got back a few good years. :-)
Now I should point out that she is on thay tall (only 5'2"), but she sat behind my wife who had her (bucket) seat nearer the back of the range than the front. My sister sid that she had no problems, and indeed she seemed comfortable. Not sure that I would fancy the trip with large guys in the back, but the bench certainly seems manageable if necessary.
We must have simular ideas for the back seat. That's where my lab will be sitting come pheasant season and anyother ocursion that I will have her tagging along with me.
I agree it's not the best for a 6' person but ok for smaller people and my dog of course probably won't complain to much however long the trip may be.
Jim
Bruce
Thanks.
Judie
Besides you can eat up 1800 lbs real quick when you load in equipment!
ladyblue
Community Leader/SUV Conference
Brian
I have a 4.7L CC 4x4 with a 5 sp. And as she is getting broke in now with a little over 400miles it does seem to be running better.
My oil presure is running on the high side also. I have just assumed for the time being that would be normal. It would be best to bring that to the attention of your dealer soon so they can at least make a note of that issue during your warrenty period.
Jim
you should refer to Edmund's for info on what price to pay for a vehicle.DON'T pay the holdback or other manufacturer's rebates/incentives.