Hey,
I have 2001 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab SLT 4x4 with the V8, I was driving normally when the " Service 4x4" light came on. I looked at my switch and the light wasnt on (ussually a green led showing its in 2wd). I stopped and restarted, then my headlights and interior lights stopped working...... Checked all the fuses inside and under the hood all seem good?? Checked agian and agian, all good.... Im thinking both the turn style swithes for lights and the 4x4 went bad?, but within 5 min? Need a little help here guys and gals. Appreciate your help.

Diller

 

I once had a similar problem, I once left my truck parked for a week and a half, then when I started it up, none of the interior lights, on the dash or the radio would work, it turned out that a mouse or somthing had chewed on my under hood lamp wires and had caused a short. that had blown the 7.5 amp under the hood was blown, double check that fuse under the hood.
I guess it could have been just a coincidence that both of you switches went bad

 

hey,
i have the same truck as you, and i can't get 4x4 to engage, if you here any suggestions, let me know

 

I have a 2002 dodge dakota and i have the same problem, were you guys able to fix yours? if so any suggestions... thanks!!

 

If you dont have 4x4, then your solenoid for it on the front axle is probably out.

 

I'm pretty sure there isn't a solenoid on the front axle of the dakota.

Guys, the problem is a widespread problem, as you can tell by the number of people experiencing it. Yeah, your transfer case is the one that goes out. But it's just the electronic control module on the t-case. I've read two different 4x4 mags with conflicting reports on converting it to a manual lever. You can look into that if you want, but I don't think it's an easy fix. IIRC the parts were about $300 to replace the control module on the t-case. I was fortunate enough to have mine fail 1 month after buying my truck (used), and it was covered under warranty.