'05 Dakota - good buy and what to look for?
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 452
Likes: 0
From: South Texas
Thanks for the input! I went back and looked some more, it has some bubbling of the paint in a couple of spots too where the rust is coming through. I don't think it was abused, but I don't think it was well-maintained either. I was hesitant, and I've not seen the truck for a few days anyhow. I'll keep looking.
BTW, as for the VIN #. I got that "invalid" on one of the codes when I checked too. I don't know why, as I've double checked and that's the correct VIN.
BTW, as for the VIN #. I got that "invalid" on one of the codes when I checked too. I don't know why, as I've double checked and that's the correct VIN.
The vin didn't show correctly for me either. The 9th diget is likley a "c" instead of a "zero".
Professional
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 221
Likes: 0
From: Canada
Chrysler had a high failure rate with their front wheel drive transmissions, specifically the overdrives, but the 545RFE is so far proving to be a solid transmission. You will always get the odd one that has problems as in anything; the 545RFE has been known to need the occasional solenoid pack, but nothing of epidemic proportions.
As a matter of fact, historically, Chrysler has had a great reputation with transmissions back with the 904 and 727. The 727 in particular was damn near indestructible. The 404 and 413 FWD design was similar internally to either the 904 or 727 (can't remember exactly it's been a while). The 413's were weak in the diff section and would toss carrier pins busting the case. I think the carrier bearings were weak as well. Then the A604 continued with problems and ruined Chrysler rep with trannys.
Having talked to some friends who I worked with in the transmission repair business and still keep contact with stated that they have hardly seen any 545RFE's come through their shop. They also claim that this transmission is built very simple and rugged which I personally find comforting.
I would say if you're buying a FWD Dodge with OD, worry about the transmission, but with the Dakota, concern yourself more with steering and suspension.
As a matter of fact, historically, Chrysler has had a great reputation with transmissions back with the 904 and 727. The 727 in particular was damn near indestructible. The 404 and 413 FWD design was similar internally to either the 904 or 727 (can't remember exactly it's been a while). The 413's were weak in the diff section and would toss carrier pins busting the case. I think the carrier bearings were weak as well. Then the A604 continued with problems and ruined Chrysler rep with trannys.
Having talked to some friends who I worked with in the transmission repair business and still keep contact with stated that they have hardly seen any 545RFE's come through their shop. They also claim that this transmission is built very simple and rugged which I personally find comforting.
I would say if you're buying a FWD Dodge with OD, worry about the transmission, but with the Dakota, concern yourself more with steering and suspension.
Last edited by Robk1971; Aug 19, 2011 at 06:54 PM. Reason: Add
Still came back invalid.
