Next week I pickup my 2000 ext 2wd 4.7 auto/trailor pkg dakota with 40k origonal kms from the dealer. What can I expect for breakdowns during the life of my truck? Purchased a Toyota used veacle warranty for 2yrs to protect me from power train issues. Is there anything I should keep and eye out for and what can I do to get the most longegivity from my truck?

DC

 

I have approximately 46,000 miles on my 2004 Dakota QC so I am no longevity expert with it but I don't treat it any different than any of my other vehicles as far as maintainence is concerned.

I believe that quality oil is at the front of the maintainence routine. I use Amsoil and will sing it's praises all day long.

I also do more maintainence than prescribed on the moving parts, i.e. the axels and transmission.

Two things I have done that have made a tremendous difference are a cold air intake from Air Raid and changing the plugs and putting in NGK Iridium.

FWIW my Dakota runs all day long without a hiccup and tows anything I have hooked up to it and is comfortable and fun while doing it.

 

My dad bought his brand new in 2001 and when he traded it off we had put over 80k on it. As long as you maintain it like you are supposed to you will have a good running truck. That thing was powerful, I loved it.

 

Thought I’d start my first post with a boast. Current mileage shows 163,347. This is a 2001 4.7 QC purchased in Sept 2001. Aside from the usual oil changes, filter changes, plugs & wire replacements, I’ve had no problems. I’m even on my 2nd set of tires. The original Goodyear Wranglers from the factory lasted me over 100,000 miles. Just for the record, I changed them out with still 3/32 left on them. Obviously I replaced them with the identical brand & type.

My only problems to date (knock on wood):
1. The left rear door lock solenoid had to be replaced.
2. 1 battery
3. Front rotors replaced along with the brake pads
4. Replaced the windshield wipers once
5. Replaced windshield

Still have the original rear brakes & drums, serpentine belt etc. Honestly, I’ve only replaced what I’ve listed.

Last compression test about 20,000 miles ago showed 147-150 across all cylinders. (keep in mind this is at 5000’ above sea level)

This is my daily driver. (45 miles RT every day to/from work.) For years I’ve towed my racecar to/from tracks, and now my boat. I live in Colorado and have many trips dragging the boat over the mountains to Long Beach and back. Aside from getting 9 mpg when towing, and having to downshift to make it up some of the passes while towing the boat to California, I absolutely have not one complaint.

---Harrison