I just past 200K miles on my 2000 truck. A little review - no problems - only some small leaks
- steering - Lucas Stop power steering stop leak works

Other then that only usual maintenance.

Mileage like new - I use Lucas oil stabilizer now
suburban - 16 mpg
highway - 20 mpg
Towing 3,000lb trailer - 13-14 mpg.

I may trade it in if I get a bigger travel trailer in a couple of years.
Dodge Dakota,2000 Quad Cab 4X4-Sport, 3.9L V-6 Automatic, Sports Plus Package 31X10.5 tires, Limited Slip, 4.10 Gears, Trailer Tow Group, HD Package, LineX Spray in bed liner

 

I have a used 2003 Dakota with the 3.9 at 70,000 miles. Had it about 9 months now. Did all the usual catch up maintenance, seems to be running well. This included having a dodge dealer change the transmission fluid - it was brown.


So my question is - how long did or is your trans still working as original? If not when did you have it rebuilt. I have the 4 speed auto - if I missed your transmission type sorry.


Mike

 

I have an 02 Quad with the 4.7. 185,000 miles on it. Bought it new. Regular service of everything almost to the book. Four sets of rotors on the front. The last set were about $400 with the pads. I installed them myself. Tired of the cheap crap I was getting and bought some good stuff. Several U-Joints. Complete bearing in rear end at about 170k miles. Swap bar links. Third set of shocks. Second muffler. No motor issues. KNOCK WOOD.

Probably about $5500 in repairs since new not including normal wear and tear. Crappy gas mileage, about 13 average.

Would I buy another one? Nope. Had three Dakotas since 1998 and all had stupid a$$ problems that cost to much.

 

2003 Dak with 264K. 545RFE transmission. My tranny is shifting perfectly, no issues whatsoever. I have changed the filters and installed an aftermarket drain plug. I drain and fill every 20-25K with Walmart Supertech ATF+4.

 

I think we have the same transmission. Mine is the original no rebuild.

I'd suggest a few things for longevity.

1 - switch to synthetic oil - the 3.9 tends to sluge - and change it regularly. I also put in some Lucas Oil stabilizer.

2 - put in some Lucas Transmission Fix even if you don't think you need it. You will notice a change. You don't have to drain any fluid out - read the directions.

3. put in a drain plug in your transmission pan and change the fluid yourself if you have a garage.

4. Change your rear gear oil.

5 Change your transfer case fluid

6. Get some good fuel injector cleaners - and use them regularly.