I have a 2000 dodge dakota 2-wheel drive, 4 -cyl., standard cab. It has a shimmy at 15-30 miles per how (steering wheel jerks back and forth ~ 1/2 inch) and drifts to the right. I took it to the dealer for a diagnosis, and they said I need a new clutch. I asked how does a bad clutch causes a shimmy in a rear wheel drive. The response was throw-out bearing causing vibration. I have not replaced the clutch. On the way home at 20 mph, I push in the clutch, and the shimmy stayed the same. Is the dealer's diagnosis reasonable of should I get a second opinion?

 

sounds like a slipped belt in one of the front tires. Try rotating front to back and see if the problem followes the tires. If it is in the tires the shimmy will feel like the dr. seat is shaking instead of the sterring wheel

 

A clutch problem? O ya a clutch repair is alot more profitable.And then give you a free tire rotation. Then wait for you to come back for that vibration in the rear. As blue flame said I would swap the tires to the rear first .If that doesn't do it check your tierod ends.

 

Thanks for the advice. My tires were pretty worn. I went ahead and replaced the tires, asked to have best rims put on front. The new tires fixed the problem as both of you suggested. Now all I need to do is get the diagnostic fee back from the dealer - how likely is that? (just a rhetorical question). Thanks again