I'm new to the forum and getting ready to buy a 2005 4x4 Dakota. It has 36,000 miles and look to be in good condition. What should I look for,or be consern about.


Thank you.

 

Front end issues are the biggest problems on these trucks. Make sure you look under it or take it to a mechanic to look at it. Ball joints and tie rods are your biggest concern.

Other than that, see if you get any shakes from the rear end when braking; thats one of the issues that some Dakotas have and some dont.

And lastly, if you want to do anything performance wise make sure you get the 4.7l V8. The gas mileage isnt that much better in the 3.7l regardless. But even for the V8s, performance parts are limited and what we do have can get pricey.

Good luck with the buy and welcome to the forum!

 

Welcome to the forum. Rengnath nailed it. Not much else to say, other than get the V8 if you can. A 2005 with only 36k miles??? Man, thats great! I thought I was getting a deal with my 2005 that had only 50k when I got it this year.

 

My 05 has 112k on it!

Still going strong!

 

I'll be there soon as much as I drive....wish i didn't like it so much sometimes....then i wouldn't drive it as much, take the wifes car more often....lol

 

Thanks for all the advice. The truck has a V8. What would be the warranty?,and if it has front end problems,will it be covered?



Joe

 

Joe,
I also purchased a 2005 v8 4x4 crew cab with about 35k earlier this year, my truck is solid so far. it occasional idles rough but supposedly their is a pcm flash that will take care of that problem, for the 7 year 70k mile power train warranty take it to a dodge dealership and pay the $150 transfer fee and you should be good to go

 

if you plan on towing try and find out what gear ratio the axles are...either 3.55 or 3.92.

 

I'm trading in a 2008 Kia Sorento. Runs good, but I don't see the down the road as something dependable.

Joe

 

he speaks the truth! the truck is solid, but understand you are buying a 5-6 year old vehicle.. and the 05 is the first year of the new (3rd gen) body style...so there are some things that they (Chrysler) has improved...i have an 05 with 60k now....i dont know how i drove another truck at this point....pay attention on this forum...if you EVER have any problems...and you are somewhat good at fixing things....there is nothing we can't fix here....who needs a warranty when you have df?