Sorry to hear about your truck issues, but I haven't had any of the issues you described.

The only nagging issue I have is the same issue graythang is having with a loose drivers seat back.

 

i have an issue with the warped exhaust manifolds, but my truck is out of warrenty

 

With that much going wrong in that amount of time it really sounds like you might have a lemon. As far as the overheating, how many miles are on it and have you flushed the coolant?

 

I have 28k no probelms. I drive my truck like i stole it and beat it to death wheeling still no problems

 

Mine's still running like a champ at 27,000 mi. But if you still want to keep it, I'm pretty sure these guys will help any way they can. Welcome on.

 

I am also sorry to hear about your problems, me and alot of dakota owners i know have not had that problem. I also heard crazy things about my caravan and i have not had any of those problems.

 

ouch... I thought mine was bad.

12000 miles
2 wheel bearings
brakes all round
O2 sensor
1 switch module
1 tie rod
hood latch

 

55,000 miles. aside from the rough idle, no problems...i'm still on my honeymoon with her....

 

I'm very sorry for your problems, as I've had some as well, though not to the extent that you have.
I'll share by mileage what I've been through since the discussion is somewhat down this path:
Warranty:
15K-replace Front Control Module (FCM/instrument cluster) due to truck refusing recall solution. Took four trips to dealer to accomplish

18K-mobilizer in steering column went out, stranding my son and I at the bank until a tow truck came to take us to the dealer.

No Warranty:
40K-replace intermediate shaft, original wore out resulting in loose steering. $456 and change.

47K-replace turn signal lever assembly, original just quit. $200 and change.

Add to the fact that I've replace coolant ($70) and rear diff fluid ($160), I've sunk a bit of money into my truck this year. I do tow a 3800 pound camper with my Dakota, but I do feel the things that have happened to it are a bit excessive. I do take care of my vehicles, both cleaning and maintenance wise. I know there are a lot of do-it-yourselfers on here, but I'm not one. I don't have the time, tools, or facilities to perform this stuff. What little freetime I have is spent getting other chores done and spending time with my family (which includes camping!) If it's financially possible, I'd consider replacing the truck, with the brand up to you. Good Luck!

 

I feel as though I too should document my issues for anyone doing their homework and buying one used.

2005 Dakota Club Cab
4.7 v8
4x4

Issues:
Ball Joints
Tie Rod Ends
Wheel Bearings
Sway bar Ends
A/C intermittently goes out and the fix is to disconnect the battery
Struts