Dakota for first car?
the 05-07 have a different body style than the 08 and up, but all are called 3rd generation on this forum. The 05-07 are prone to premature front end parts failure (ball joints, tie rods, sway bar end links and struts). I'm not sure if they beefed these parts up on the 08 and up models but I think they all have their problems. If not already done, be prepared to have to replace these parts. Struts especially. There are only so many choices for aftermnarket parts for these trucks, not a lot of aftermarket support. The 08- up's have more power from the 4.7. Mileage for either engine (3.7L V6 or 4.7L V8) is not that great. 14-18 average, some get more, some get less. If your looking for mileage, I'd say stay away from the Dakota simply because you are not going to get good mileage no matter what you do. Speaking from experience, I have done everything but get into the internals and still average the same as when it was completely stock. (16 mpg). But, if you are looking for a truck that is fun to drive, roomy and different (not a lot of the around) go for it. I love mine and would do it all over again if I could.
Champion
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 3,053
Likes: 28
From: Mopar HQ
Hey guys, im pretty new here and I'm considering a Dakota for a first car. Im in high school and can get a car the next school year. The only thing holding me back is my parents. They they Dodge vehicles are totally unreliable and fall apart. Is there anything to convince them otherwise? Also, is a Dakota (2005-2008) a good first car? Thanks!
Ram,
If you find one you like, PM me the VIN and I will check for recalls and warranty restrictions for you.
My 1st Gen, the best I would get was 16 with the 3.9L
[QUOTE=EliteTempleton;2649602]I drove a 1st Gen Dak around in H.S. - worked well for me. Till I totaled it...
What state/province are you in?
If gas mileage is a concern I'd point you toward 2nd gen Dakota's, they're less thirsty. I drove one of those around for most of the last decade. If I were looking at 2nd Gen's I'd personally narrow my search to the 545RFE Transmission which means 2003-2004.[/QUOTE]
the 2000 daks had the 45rfe too. jeeps, rams they all use the 45rfe
What state/province are you in?
If gas mileage is a concern I'd point you toward 2nd gen Dakota's, they're less thirsty. I drove one of those around for most of the last decade. If I were looking at 2nd Gen's I'd personally narrow my search to the 545RFE Transmission which means 2003-2004.[/QUOTE]
the 2000 daks had the 45rfe too. jeeps, rams they all use the 45rfe
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 459
Likes: 0
From: North Vernon, Indiana
Mine is around yours too. It really doesn't "guzzle" gas.
Professional
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 166
Likes: 0
I have a 2007 Dakota ST, the absolute bare-bones model with no features; 2WD, 6-speed stick, 3.7L V6. I pretty much always get around 18MPG and I drive 32 to and from work, all highway. I wouldn't say it guzzles gas but I think such a basic truck should be over 20 MPG on the highway.
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 279
Likes: 0
From: Michigan
My favorite part is that it's harder for my toddler to kick the back of my seat repeatedly...
I just have to get over the shorter bed by getting a hauler rack and I'll be all set!
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 279
Likes: 0
From: Michigan
i drove a 1st gen dak around in h.s. - worked well for me. Till i totaled it...
What state/province are you in?
If gas mileage is a concern i'd point you toward 2nd gen dakota's, they're less thirsty. I drove one of those around for most of the last decade. If i were looking at 2nd gen's i'd personally narrow my search to the 545rfe transmission which means 2003-2004.
What state/province are you in?
If gas mileage is a concern i'd point you toward 2nd gen dakota's, they're less thirsty. I drove one of those around for most of the last decade. If i were looking at 2nd gen's i'd personally narrow my search to the 545rfe transmission which means 2003-2004.
Originally Posted by Wikipedia
Applications:
45RFE
2000–2002 Dodge Dakota (4.7L)
545RFE
2003–2011 Dodge Dakota (4.7L, 4.7L H.O.)
45RFE
2000–2002 Dodge Dakota (4.7L)
545RFE
2003–2011 Dodge Dakota (4.7L, 4.7L H.O.)
But of course your comment made me question it, and knowing that Wikipedia is an open community environment I kept digging until I found a better explanation:
Originally Posted by allpar.com
2003 Dodge Dakota Changes
For 2003, the 545RFE five-speed automatic was finally available with the 4.7, for better passing acceleration and an overall superior driving experience. It was optional on the Sport, Sport Plus, SLT, and SLT Plus.
For 2003, the 545RFE five-speed automatic was finally available with the 4.7, for better passing acceleration and an overall superior driving experience. It was optional on the Sport, Sport Plus, SLT, and SLT Plus.
Originally Posted by allpar.com
The 2005 and later Dodge Dakota in detail, with specifications and engines
TRANSMISSIONS
GETRAG 238 - MANUAL 6-SPEED OVERDRIVE
Availability: Std. – 3.7 and 4.7 standard output
Description: Synchronized in all gears
42RLE - AUTOMATIC, 4-SPEED OVERDRIVE
Availability: Available with 3.7L engine
Description: Clutch-selected planetary gear sets full electronic control, electronically controlled torque converter clutch
545RFE, AUTOMATIC FIVE-SPEED OVERDRIVE
Availability: 4.7L engines
Description: Clutch-selected planetary gear sets full electronic control, electronically controlled torque converter clutch
TRANSMISSIONS
GETRAG 238 - MANUAL 6-SPEED OVERDRIVE
Availability: Std. – 3.7 and 4.7 standard output
Description: Synchronized in all gears
42RLE - AUTOMATIC, 4-SPEED OVERDRIVE
Availability: Available with 3.7L engine
Description: Clutch-selected planetary gear sets full electronic control, electronically controlled torque converter clutch
545RFE, AUTOMATIC FIVE-SPEED OVERDRIVE
Availability: 4.7L engines
Description: Clutch-selected planetary gear sets full electronic control, electronically controlled torque converter clutch
whenever I looked up my transmission a few months ago I only concerned myself with 3rd gen 4.7 Automatics, being that's what I have. Which, according to the internet, only came with 545RFE's. 
Sorry for any confusion.