: the contact stated while having the vehicle serviced, the dealer noticed the brake pads and rotors were worn and needed to be replaced. Also, upon starting the vehicle, the key would not turn the ignition switch. The dealer determined the switch needed to be replaced. The contact removed the switch and cleaned it with no further problems. Updated 11/30/2006 - the check engine light was illuminated constantly. The dealer determined there was a vacuum leak. The wheel cylinder locked up.

- Gratis, OH, USA

I purchased my 2001 Dodge Dakota club cab back in Feb. 2002 as a demo vehicle with 5000 miles on it. Since then I have had the brake pads replaced twice and have had the drums and rotors replaced 4 times due to warping. About every three thousand miles my drums and rotors need to be turned or replaced.my truck has 70,000 miles on it and it is used primarily on the highway.

- Slippery Rock, PA, USA

I own a 2001 Dodge Dakota quad cab 4X4 sle that we purchased new. In the last 6 months, and with only 49000 miles on the truck currently, the following failures have occurred: (1) (from February 2004 to present) the factory-installed external wiring harness (for towing a trailer) melted from the inside out, shorting out the electrical system. (2) brakes would pulsate anytime brakes were applied. Dealer attributed this to warping of rotors and replaced pads and turned the rotors. Dealer noted a spring on driver-side caliper was missing and replaced it as well. (3) the heater/ac controls failed. (4) went for state inspection and inspector failed truck due to failure of upper ball joints and brakes. The same brakes I just had fixed in February. Premature failure of ball joints attributed to "typical problem for Dakotas/durangos". well if it's typical, why isn't there a recall?? the dealer had no answers. Failure was a result of calipers not releasing properly causing the rotors and brake pads to "glaze". dealer opted to pick up the tab for the new rotors and the new pads, only at my request. The new calipers and brake lines still cost me $800. Again I'm wondering why I'm paying for so much on a truck that is only 3 years old with only 49000 miles. (5) unknown problem at startup when engine is cold. Pressing the accelerator causes the engine to sputter. Problem exists until engine is warm then goes away. Two Dodge dealerships and neither can figure out the problem as there is no computer error code coming up. All items mentioned were paid for by me unless otherwise specified. Had any of these issues been a result of negligence, or lots of mileage, or had the Dodge dealership(s) opted to pay for items that were the obvious result of poor craftsmanship, I wouldn't complain. But, the failures relating to the brakes could quite possibly have resulted in an accident which risks my life and that of my wife, and Dodge doesn't seem to care.

- Glenn Dale, MD, USA

Rotors warped at 25000 miles. Had dealer replace rotors with brembo rotors and pads with raybestos ceramic pads. Received from dealer after replacement- brakes dragged. Took back to dealer twice- finally, dealer discovered that ABS system is non-functional. DC paid for the parts to repair system- labor was my expense ( I had timed out of warranty). Dealer says that new pads are cracked from damage done after repair. Have to replace pads.

- Wendell, NC, USA

I have a 2001 Dodge Dakota quad cab and while approaching a stop sign, stepped on the brake pedal which went completely to the floor, and nearly caused me to rear end another vehicle. When I brought it to the dealer they stated to me that the the brake pad was sheared off by the rivets, causing a metal to metal contact with the rotor.

- Melrose, MN, USA

Consumer complained about a brake problem. While driving at any speed brakes locked up. Vehicle had been to dealer on 4 separate occasions. Dealer replaced rotors, booster power unit, calipers, master cylinder and pads. Vehicle was still having the same problem.

- Boaz, AL, USA

At 21000 miles, I noticed a clanking sound in the front of the vehicle. When the dealer checked it out, the brake pad clips had rusted away and one rotor had excessive wear. However, Chrysler refused to pay for repairs, which cost over $400.

- Tiverton, RI, USA

Metal on front brake pads is deteriorating. As a result there is a shimmy in the front end while driving.

- Manipowoc, WI, USA

When the brakes were applied, the pedal traveled to the floor, which caused extended stopping distance.. the consumer discovered the brake pad had delaminated from the backing plate and fallen out.

- Nottingham, NH, USA

Front brake grinding when hot and continual rear brake drum warpage. Dealer has turned the drums once and I have had it done independantly twice. Warpage continues within 5-7000 miles.

- Frederick, CO, USA