I'm a newb to this forum but i am about to get a new truck and i have my eye on a 2006 Dakota. I have a few questions for the pros first though. I have looked on line for awhile and from what i have gathered most of the "pros" have rated the 2004-2006 dakotas pretty low as far as reliability. Have any of you guys had any real issues with your trucks? It seems alot of transmission problems are reported and a general lack of power out of the 3.7 v6's is also reported. I am looking at a club cab 4x4 with a 3.7 v6 in it, so i am interested in it's off road ability. I do alot of hunting, so i drive back in the woods alot and drive down alot of less than developed roads. My major hang up with the o6 dakotas is from my view point they seem like they sit real low and dont look like they would do that great off of roads. So if you guys could drop some knowledge on me i would appreciate it.

 

you answer most of your question by your self!!!
stay away from 3.7 v6
transmission problem you only swap a filter in the tranny and its solved.
and the 1997-2004 dakota haves better offroad ability and parts support
and about 2006 offroad ability...the fuel tank hang very low...i am 5.5'' lifted and using 33'' tires and i am still dragging the fuel tank while i hunt ant offroading.

do you want to invest in a lift??? 2,5 leveling kit 200$
3'' bodylift 400$
4 285 75 16 (33'') 800$
you can use stock wheels with 1'' thick spacer

 

front shocks, front tie rod, front sway bars link are junk...the rest of the truck i am satisfied...it olds up since 3 years...