I was looking at the "Recalls & TSBs" for my 2001 Durango 4X4 and they show 2 of them that I was concerned about. One is the upper ball joint issue that I have heard so many horror stories about (04V596000). The second is dealing with the trans lever linkage (01V077000). I called the number for Dodge and they ran my VIN and said I was not effected even though my D was manufactured during the stated period. Can anyone tell me why I wouldn't be effected? Does that sound normal?

 

I would imagine it may have been built in a different factory than the ones that had the problem. If you are still worried about the upper ball joint just keep an eye on how your wheels wear. Mine wore out on the inside edge after I got my truck used and didn't think to check for recalls.

 

Could be that also the recall was on 4wd and not 2wd. I forget if it included all models.

 

Read the top stickied post by redriderbob. I think it is still there concerning the ball joint recall for all models durangos and dakotas from 2000-2003. I think this is what I remember but you can read that thread to be sure.

All 4x4 models are mandatory recalls. All 2WD are inspected and replaced if needed.

 

Here is the message posted by DodgeMech from that recall message thread;

Here is a copy of the recall, our dealer has parts now.
 Copyright 2004, DaimlerChrysler Corporation, All Rights Reserved
December 2004
Dealer Service Instructions for:
Safety Recall D47 - Upper Ball Joint Joints
2000 - 2003 (AN) Dodge Dakota 4x4 Pick-Up Truck
2000 - 2003 (DN) Dodge Durango 4x4
NOTE: This notification applies only to the above vehicles built through
December 31, 2002 (MDH 1231XX).
Water may enter into the front suspension upper ball joints on about 600,000 of the
above vehicles and cause corrosion. Over an extended period of time, a “clunking�
noise can develop in the front suspension due to progressive ball joint wear. If this
noise is ignored, the front wheel assembly could separate from the vehicle.
Both front suspension upper ball joints must be replaced.
Models
IMPORTANT: Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer used vehicle
inventory. Dealers should complete this repair on these vehicles before retail
delivery. Dealers should also perform this repair on vehicles in for service.
Involved vehicles can be determined by using the VIP inquiry process.