Thought I would "buy american" and get the Dodge Dakota 4 dr crew. Love its style, comforts, more power than I need (4.7L V8) 2wd has no traction in snow or ice. Very easy to drive and comfortable 6ft.2 220lbs.(2 trips NJ to calif.) gas mileage stinks...13-18mpg, no loads. Brake rotors replaced 28K, left top ball joint worn (no recall yet)A/C needed charging, right front hub and bearings replaced 49K, rear leaf spring noisy, transmission hesitation occasionally. Great truck to drive and haul but reliability really in question with only 49K. Probably back to Nissan or Toyota.

- Manahawkin, NJ, USA

DaimlerChrysler motor corporation P.O. Box 21-8004 auburn hills, mi 48321-8004 attention: Quality assurance my Dodge presently has 49,200 miles. It has been serviced at recommended and required intervals at manahawkin Dodge approximately every 3,000 miles. Early into my ownership I had intermittent trouble with the air conditioner and they tried to assess the problem. They did a recharge of the system and corrected the problem. I was told at 28998 miles that the "pulsing" when my brakes were applied was due to "hot spots" on my front rotors. When I inquired as to how this could happen to a relatively new truck that is used as a personal transportation vehicle I was told they really "did not know but have had to replace others." It is noted that I never had to replace rotors on my previous Nissan. That ended up costing me $393. I began hearing a noise in the transmission and intermittent delayed shifting into gear resulting in the transmission being serviced which included changing filters, lubricant, etc. I was also told that my upper ball joint was worn and replaced one side only. This I subsequently learned has been a problem for some Dodge vehicles and I have since received a letter from DaimlerChrysler regarding an extended warranty on the part. Today I was told that I had play in the right front ball bearing and the hub needed a total replacement. Along with that a strut had to be replaced and an alignment once it was completed. When I asked how axle bearing could go bad with this low a mileage I was told that the hub is sealed and no way to lubricate and that it should not have gone bad. In addition, I have a noisy left leaf spring that needs a part. The cost for the front hub is over $600. I rarely get over 16 miles per gallon even I the best driving conditions. Sincerely, charles w. stauffer cc: NHTSA NJ division Consumer Affairs file

- Manahawkin, NJ, USA

Rear leaf springs deteriorated. Consumer was concerned that while driving the leaf spring could fall apart, and the rear end will lose control. Dealer stated there was no solution at this time.

- Seaside Heights, NJ, USA