i havent had mine long enough to really know or have any problems...most of what i see on this page is how to performance stuff and questions like that. but from what i have read on this site, alot of people have problems with cats and o2 sensors, that seems to be a common thing on this page...as you will probably do, and like i did, tune it up and change all the fluids whether it needs it or not. i kind of fix and cleanthings as i go along, but no problems yet...as with any used car, i think they will nickel and dime you now and then, but if you get a decent one i wouldnt be afraid to go for it

 

I just remimbered Upper Ball Joints are a big problem on 2nd gen dakota's but i do not know if it is a problem on an 04 because i believe they changed the front suspention on 03.

 

13~15 mpg. I get 13's but I drive it, dont baby it.

 

I too drive like an old man, so I usually get 15.5-16.5 MPG. I'm easy on the truck because, I have other things that I like to throw money at. I follow maintenance schedule B as close as possible.
I've never dipped below 14 MPG. I calculate my average just about every fill-up.

My Dakota is a 4x4 as well. The truck has the 3.55 gears with LSD.

 

here are consumer guide automotives "trouble spots" and "recall history" on 97-04 dakotas...

http://consumerguideauto.howstuffwor...e-dakota-2.htm

 

also try this link for more...

https://dodgeforum.com/recalls-and-tsbs/browse.htm

 

the sludge in a 4.7 is a common thing. It is cause by the fact that the filler tube is so far from the block, that it doesn't warm up enough and the coolness of the tube causes the condensation. One way to help but not eliminate the problem , is to go to a hotter thermostat. As far as I can tell no one has had any problems from the sludge. Just make sure you wipe it out once and a while and it should be ok. That's all I have been doing. PS dont' let the fools at your local oil change place convince you that you need a flush, it's a waste of money.