2006 Dodge Dakota Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2006 Dodge Dakota Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know | Au7o

All 4 Known Issues

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200 owners

On the 2000-2007 Dodge Dakota 4.7L V8, the timing chain tensioner and guides wear prematurely, especially when incorrect oil weight is used (5W-30 instead of the required 5W-20). Causes rattling on startup, performance deterioration, and can lead to engine destruction if chain jumps.

This issue also affects: Citroën C3, Citroën DS3, Hyundai Santa Fe

Common Symptoms

Rattling noise on startup
Engine performance deterioration
Check engine light with timing codes
Misfires
Complete engine failure if chain jumps

How to Fix

Replace timing chain, tensioner, and guides as a complete set. Use ONLY 5W-20 oil as specified - incorrect oil weight accelerates tensioner wear significantly.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 200+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteUse ONLY 5W-20 oil - using 5W-30 accelerates timing chain tensioner wear significantly. This is the most common cause of premature failure
TipReplace chain, tensioner, and all guides as a complete set. Rattling on startup is the early warning sign - address immediately
UpgradeComplete timing chain kit includes chains, guides, and tensioners (Cloyes Timing Chain Kit)
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UpgradeHigh-quality engine oil is critical after timing service (Castrol Edge Full Synthetic Motor Oil)
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Typical repair cost:$1,000 - $2,500

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Community Reported

High Confidence200 reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 1997-2011 Dodge Dakota, the 42RE (4-speed) and 45RFE/545RFE (5-speed) automatic transmissions in the Dakota suffer from overdrive solenoid failures. The overdrive solenoid sticks or fails electrically, preventing the transmission from engaging overdrive or causing it to drop out of overdrive unexpectedly. This increases highway fuel consumption and engine RPM. The issue is exacerbated by old, contaminated transmission fluid.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Mitsubishi Outlander, Acura ILX

Common Symptoms

Transmission will not shift into overdrive
Overdrive drops out at highway speeds
Higher than normal RPM at highway cruising speed
Check engine light with overdrive codes
Increased fuel consumption on highway

How to Fix

Replace the overdrive solenoid and governor pressure solenoid as a pair — they are accessed by dropping the transmission pan and valve body. Use Mopar ATF+4 (68218058AC) exclusively. For the 42RE, the solenoid pack is inexpensive ($40-$80) but labor is 2-3 hours. For the 45RFE/545RFE, replace the entire solenoid block assembly. Regular fluid changes every 30,000 miles help prevent recurrence.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipAlways replace the governor pressure solenoid and sensor at the same time as the overdrive solenoid — they fail around the same mileage and the pan is already off.
NoteUse ONLY Mopar ATF+4 in these transmissions. Generic Dex/Merc fluid causes shift quality issues and accelerates solenoid wear.
UpgradeReplacement shift solenoid to restore proper gear engagement (Dorman Transmission Shift Solenoid)
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UpgradeTransmission filter kit with gasket for fluid service after solenoid replacement (ATP Transmission Filter Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$200 - $800

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2000-2011 Dodge Dakota, the NP231 and NP242 transfer cases in 4WD Dakotas develop leaks at the rear output shaft seal and front output shaft seal. The seals dry out and crack from heat exposure and age, allowing ATF to leak onto the exhaust crossover pipe, creating a burning fluid smell. Low fluid levels from undetected leaks can cause transfer case chain wear and eventual failure.

Common Symptoms

Fluid dripping from center of vehicle under transfer case
Burning fluid smell from under the vehicle
Low transfer case fluid level
Grinding noise when engaging 4WD
Transfer case whine or rumble at highway speeds

How to Fix

Replace the leaking output shaft seal(s). The rear output seal can often be done in-vehicle by removing the rear driveshaft and prying out the old seal. The front output seal requires more disassembly. Use genuine Mopar seals or National Oil Seals equivalents. Refill the transfer case with Mopar ATF+4. Check fluid level every oil change to catch leaks early. Seal replacement runs $150-$400.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipCheck your transfer case fluid level at every oil change. These seals often weep slowly for months before becoming a noticeable leak, and low fluid kills the chain and sprockets.
TipWhen replacing the rear output seal, inspect the output shaft surface for grooves. If grooved, install a Speedi-Sleeve repair sleeve before the new seal to prevent immediate re-leaking.
UpgradeMobil 1 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for differential and transfer case (Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Oil 75W-90)
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UpgradeFel-Pro gasket kit for drivetrain service (Fel-Pro Gasket Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$150 - $400

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2000-2011 Dodge Dakota, the rear window defroster grid lines crack and break, leaving sections of the window uncleared. The adhesive-bonded heating elements separate from the glass due to thermal cycling and UV degradation. On crew cab models, the flex in the rear window area accelerates the grid line failures. Some owners report the defroster working on only half the window or in random stripes.

Common Symptoms

Rear defroster clears only portions of the window
Visible breaks in the defroster grid lines
Defroster light comes on but window does not clear
Foggy or icy stripes across rear window in winter
Defroster stops working entirely

How to Fix

For minor grid line breaks, use a rear defroster repair kit (Permatex 09117 or Loctite 21351) to bridge small gaps in the conductive grid. Clean the area with alcohol, apply the conductive paint following the grid line, and allow 24 hours to cure. For extensive damage across multiple grid lines, the rear window must be replaced ($300-$600 for the glass plus $150-$250 labor). Aftermarket glass is available at lower cost than OEM.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

TipPermatex 09117 rear defroster repair kit works well for 1-3 broken grid lines. Use a magnifying glass to find the exact break point and test with a voltmeter to confirm the repair.
NoteNever scrape ice off the inside of the rear window or use a razor blade near the grid lines — this is the most common cause of grid line damage.
UpgradeDirect-fit window regulator assembly with motor for easy installation (Dorman Power Window Regulator and Motor Assembly)
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Typical repair cost:$15 - $850

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

⚠️NHTSA Recalls9 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, Ram 4500/5500, 2010-2011 Dodge Dakota, 2010-2014 Dodge Challenger, 2010-2015 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, and 2010-2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.

Campaign #19V01800015/01/2019

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger vehicles, and 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Chrysler is recalling certain 2009-2010 RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Chrysler is also recalling certain 2009 RAM 3500, RAM 2500, RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Campaign #18V02100009/01/2018

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant. With this change, Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Chrysler is also recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.C., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Chrysler is recalling certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or registered, in AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.

Campaign #16V35200024/05/2016

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Campaign #15V31300027/05/2015

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

NBC Truck Equipment, Inc. (NBC) is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 and model year 2010-2011 trucks equipped with Sure Power battery separator devices, due to overheating.

Campaign #12V42000028/08/2012

+ 4 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Dodge Dakota problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 200+ owner reports, the 2006-2006 Dodge Dakota has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 4.7L V8 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure, Transmission Overdrive Solenoid Failure (42RE/45RFE), Transfer Case Output Seal Leak (NP231/NP242). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Dodge Dakota reliable?

The 2006-2006 Dodge Dakota has 4 known issues documented across 200+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: 4.7L V8 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Dakota problems?

Repair costs for known Dodge Dakota issues range from $15 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 4.7L V8 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure, typically costs $1,000-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2000-2007 Dodge Dakota 4.7L V8 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure?

The timing chain tensioner and guides wear prematurely, especially when incorrect oil weight is used (5W-30 instead of the required 5W-20). Causes rattling on startup, performance deterioration, and can lead to engine destruction if chain jumps. Repairs typically run $1,000-$2,500. Severity: high.

What is the 1997-2011 Dodge Dakota Transmission Overdrive Solenoid Failure (42RE/45RFE)?

The 42RE (4-speed) and 45RFE/545RFE (5-speed) automatic transmissions in the Dakota suffer from overdrive solenoid failures. The overdrive solenoid sticks or fails electrically, preventing the transmission from engaging overdrive or causing it to drop out of overdrive unexpectedl… Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2000-2011 Dodge Dakota Transfer Case Output Seal Leak (NP231/NP242)?

The NP231 and NP242 transfer cases in 4WD Dakotas develop leaks at the rear output shaft seal and front output shaft seal. The seals dry out and crack from heat exposure and age, allowing ATF to leak onto the exhaust crossover pipe, creating a burning fluid smell. Low fluid level… Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: medium.

What is the 2000-2011 Dodge Dakota Rear Window Defroster Element Grid Cracking and Failure?

The rear window defroster grid lines crack and break, leaving sections of the window uncleared. The adhesive-bonded heating elements separate from the glass due to thermal cycling and UV degradation. On crew cab models, the flex in the rear window area accelerates the grid line f… Repairs typically run $15-$850. Severity: low.

2006 Dodge Dakota Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 4 Known Issues

2000-2007 Dodge Dakota: 4.7L V8 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

1997-2011 Dodge Dakota: Transmission Overdrive Solenoid Failure (42RE/45RFE)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2000-2011 Dodge Dakota: Transfer Case Output Seal Leak (NP231/NP242)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2000-2011 Dodge Dakota: Rear Window Defroster Element Grid Cracking and Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Dodge Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Dodge Dakota problems?

Is the Dodge Dakota reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Dakota problems?

What is the 2000-2007 Dodge Dakota 4.7L V8 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure?

What is the 1997-2011 Dodge Dakota Transmission Overdrive Solenoid Failure (42RE/45RFE)?

What is the 2000-2011 Dodge Dakota Transfer Case Output Seal Leak (NP231/NP242)?

What is the 2000-2011 Dodge Dakota Rear Window Defroster Element Grid Cracking and Failure?