Recalls
| Campaign | Manufacturer | Manufacturing date | Type | # of units affected | Date Owner notified Mfg | Recall Initiated by | Manufacturers of recalled vehicles/products | Report Recieved Date | Record Creation Date | Regulation Part Number | FMVSS Number | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - CONTROL ARM - UPPER BALL JOINT | ||||||||||||||||
| 04V596000 | DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION | from 01/07/1999 to 12/31/2002 | V (Vehicle) | 592707 | 12/21/2004 | ODI | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 12/21/2004 | 12/21/2004 | |||||||
| Defect Summary | On certain sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks equipped with four-wheel drive (4x4), if moisture leaks into the front suspension upper ball joint, evacuation of the lubricant and corrosion of the joint may cause the joint to wear over an extended period of time. this could cause a clunking noise in the front suspension, which may not always be heard by the vehicle occupants. | |||||||||||||||
| Consequence Summary | Excessive wear in the upper ball joint may allow it to separate, which could result in loss of control of the vehicle. | |||||||||||||||
| Corrective Summary | Dealers will replace the front suspension upper ball joints. this safety improvement campaign began on december 21, 2004. owners can contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403. | |||||||||||||||
| Notes | This action is deemed a safety improvement campaign and is not being conducted under the safety act. | |||||||||||||||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - HUB | ||||||||||||||||
| 08E064000 | SKF USA, INC. | E (Equipment) | 2805 | 11/05/2008 | MFR | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 10/20/2008 | 10/20/2008 | ||||||||
| Defect Summary | Skf is recalling 2,805 hub units, part no. br930361, sold as a service part for 1997-2004 dodge dakota vehicles and 1999-2003 dodge durango vehicles equipped with 2-wheel drive & rear axle abs. due to a specification error, the rotor pilot for the hub unit may be too long. this results in the wheel to not be seated fully against the hub flange face during mounting. | |||||||||||||||
| Consequence Summary | Improper seating of the wheel can result in excessive vibration, brake rotor noise, difficulty removing the wheel after installation and operation of the vehicle, and possibly wheel-end separation during vehicle operation. should wheel-end separation occur, the driver could loose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash. | |||||||||||||||
| Corrective Summary | Skf will notify owners and replace the defective hub units free of charge. the recall began on november 5, 2008. owners may contact skf vsm north america customer service at 1-800-644-8999. | |||||||||||||||
| Notes | Skf's recall no. skf pro 08-029us/ca.this recall only pertains to aftermarket skf hub units and has no relation to any original equipment installed on dodge dakota or durango vehicles manufactured by chrysler.customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov. | |||||||||||||||
Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUSPENSION | |||||
| 0201004 | 12/16/2004 | 10011940 | Upper ball joint extended warranty. *tt | 02/07/2005 | |
Investigations
| NHTSA ID | Manufacturer | Date open | Date close | Subject | Recall campaign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUSPENSION | ||||||
| EA03023 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 11/19/2003 | 02/11/2005 | UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION | 04V596000 | |
| Daimlerchrysler corporation (dcc) is recalling the target population of approximately 600,000 my 2000 through 2003 durango and dakota vehicles with four-wheel drive to replace the front suspension upper ball joints with redesigned parts that do not have the joint integrity concerns and have substantially improved joint retention capacity (nhtsa recall no. 04v-596).though dcc does not admit to a safety-defect in the subject components, odi believes that the facts in this investigation show otherwise.because of the low rates of separation incidents in the remaining subject vehicles, a safety-related defect has not been identified in those populations and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists in those vehicles.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.for additional information, see the attached closing report. | ||||||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT | ||||||
| EA03023 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 11/19/2003 | 02/11/2005 | UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION | 04V596000 | |
| Daimlerchrysler corporation (dcc) is recalling the target population of approximately 600,000 my 2000 through 2003 durango and dakota vehicles with four-wheel drive to replace the front suspension upper ball joints with redesigned parts that do not have the joint integrity concerns and have substantially improved joint retention capacity (nhtsa recall no. 04v-596).though dcc does not admit to a safety-defect in the subject components, odi believes that the facts in this investigation show otherwise.because of the low rates of separation incidents in the remaining subject vehicles, a safety-related defect has not been identified in those populations and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists in those vehicles.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.for additional information, see the attached closing report. | ||||||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - CONTROL ARM | ||||||
| EA03023 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 11/19/2003 | 02/11/2005 | UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION | 04V596000 | |
| Daimlerchrysler corporation (dcc) is recalling the target population of approximately 600,000 my 2000 through 2003 durango and dakota vehicles with four-wheel drive to replace the front suspension upper ball joints with redesigned parts that do not have the joint integrity concerns and have substantially improved joint retention capacity (nhtsa recall no. 04v-596).though dcc does not admit to a safety-defect in the subject components, odi believes that the facts in this investigation show otherwise.because of the low rates of separation incidents in the remaining subject vehicles, a safety-related defect has not been identified in those populations and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists in those vehicles.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.for additional information, see the attached closing report. | ||||||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - CONTROL ARM - UPPER ARM | ||||||
| EA03023 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 11/19/2003 | 02/11/2005 | UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION | 04V596000 | |
| Daimlerchrysler corporation (dcc) is recalling the target population of approximately 600,000 my 2000 through 2003 durango and dakota vehicles with four-wheel drive to replace the front suspension upper ball joints with redesigned parts that do not have the joint integrity concerns and have substantially improved joint retention capacity (nhtsa recall no. 04v-596).though dcc does not admit to a safety-defect in the subject components, odi believes that the facts in this investigation show otherwise.because of the low rates of separation incidents in the remaining subject vehicles, a safety-related defect has not been identified in those populations and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists in those vehicles.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.for additional information, see the attached closing report. | ||||||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - CONTROL ARM - UPPER BALL JOINT | ||||||
| EA03023 | CHRYSLER GROUP LLC | 11/19/2003 | 02/11/2005 | UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION | 04V596000 | |
| Daimlerchrysler corporation (dcc) is recalling the target population of approximately 600,000 my 2000 through 2003 durango and dakota vehicles with four-wheel drive to replace the front suspension upper ball joints with redesigned parts that do not have the joint integrity concerns and have substantially improved joint retention capacity (nhtsa recall no. 04v-596).though dcc does not admit to a safety-defect in the subject components, odi believes that the facts in this investigation show otherwise.because of the low rates of separation incidents in the remaining subject vehicles, a safety-related defect has not been identified in those populations and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists in those vehicles.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.for additional information, see the attached closing report. | ||||||
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUSPENSION | |||
| 07/24/2012 | 93400 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2003 dodge dakota. the contact stated that while parked, the front driver's side tire detached from the vehicle as a result of a fractured ball joint. the vehicle was towed to the contact's home and was not taken to dealer. the manufacturer was contacted and stated that were not familiar with the failure as described by the contact. no assistance was provided and the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 93,400. | |||
| 07/24/2012 | 93400 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 dodge dakota. the contact stated that while parked, the front driver's side tire detached from the vehicle as a result of a fractured ball joint. the vehicle was towed to the contact's home and was not taken to dealer. the manufacturer was contacted and stated that were not familiar with the failure as described by the contact. no assistance was provided and the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 93,400. kmj | |||
| 06/29/2012 | 63569 | ||
| I was told the ball joints are no good on my 2003 dakota 4x2 and need to be replaced. the warranty on the ball joints was given a 10 year extension on 4x2 and recalled on 4x4. i was told that even though the ball joints are clearly the faulty ones my manufacturing date was 20 days after the dec 31 2002 cut off for warranty extension. how is that my truck is not covered, despite being effected by the same recalled parts. it would seem 20 days is quite a small window to be completely excluded from the extension, and that there is a reasonable margin of area. | |||
| 09/01/2011 | 88500 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2003 dodge dakota. the contact stated that the front upper and lower ball joint failed while attempting a right turn. there was a loud noise coming from under the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the upper and lower ball joints needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was contacted and advised they were unable to assist because the vehicle was not included in the recall associated with nhtsa campaign id number: 04v596000 (suspension:front:control arm:upper ball joint). the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 88,500 and the current mileage was 89,000. | |||
| 09/01/2011 | 88500 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 dodge dakota. the contact stated that the front upper and lower ball joint failed while attempting a right turn. there was a loud noise coming from under the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the upper and lower ball joints needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was contacted and advised they were unable to assist because the vehicle was not included in the recall associated with nhtsa campaign id number: 04v596000 (suspension:front:control arm:upper ball joint). the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 88,500 and the current mileage was 89,000. kmj | |||
| 09/01/2011 | 88500 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2003 dodge dakota. the contact stated the front upper and lower ball joint failed. when making a right hand turn there was a loud noise coming from underneath the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated the upper and lower ball joint needed to be replaced at the owners expense. the manufacturer made the contact aware fo the nhtsa campaign id number: 04v596000 component: suspension:front:control arm:upper ball joint recall, but the vin was not included. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 88,500 and the current mileage was 89,000. nw | |||
| 12/14/2006 | 60000 | 1 | |
| 2003 dodge dakota, 2wd, 5 spd manual, v6. although a recall has been generated pertaining to the 4wd version only, my truck has the same issue. when i am driving at any speed and turning or going through a bump i hear a clunk which sounds like what is described on the existing recall for the 4wd only. i am concerned about this. *tr | |||
| 03/25/2008 | 65700 | 5 | |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 dodge dakota. while driving between 5-10 mph, the contact heard a loud thud coming from the axle area. the four wheel drive indicator light illuminated and the headlights, interior lights, and windshield wipers failed completely. eventually, the horn began to sound intermittently, the windshield wipers began wiping automatically, and the low fuel indicator light illuminated and continued to chime. the contact believes that all the failures were related to the central timer module. nhtsa campaign id number 02v322000 (exterior lighting:headlights switch) was referenced. the purchase date was unknown. the current mileage was 66,000 and failure mileage was 65,700. | |||
| 11/15/2006 | 48318 | 1 | 05/17/2005 |
| 2003 dodge dakota 4x4 4.7 automatic: steering/handling looseness, instability, skittishness on roadways worse at higher speeds, very pronounced over bumps. inconsistencies in roadways. vehicle walks sideways when going across road discontinuities. dealer service return for diagnosis: major safety component intermediate steering shaft defective/worn. *nm | |||
| 09/01/2004 | 12500 | 2 | |
| The vehicle's ball joint had to be replaced at 24,000 miles. *nm the rear limited slip differential fluid needed to be replaced. *sc *jb | |||
| 06/23/2003 | 6000 | 5 | 12/26/2002 |
| At 6,000 miles the upper ball joints failed. when riding over any size bump in the road the front end collapsed. *ak the vehicle pulled to the right when driving and when braking, the flapper door for the fuel filler neck was missing and or fell inside the tank, the transmission did not shift properly, the front and rear rotors were grooved, worn uneven and pitted. *scc *jb | |||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT | |||
| 05/25/2010 | 65500 | ||
| I have a 2003 dodge dakota club cab. according to the dealer the upper ball joint on both sides of the vehicle are blown. dealer states no recall for my year due to the fact mine is a 2wd. called corporate and have had no luck. dealer is charging me $400. my truck only has 65,000 miles. will not honor the 10 year or 100,000 miles extended warranty. | |||
| 03/01/2003 | 34900 | ||
| This is a 2003 dodge dakota pick-up with 2 wheel drive. upper ball joint and front hub bearing are both bad, and must be replaced . this vehicle has only 34,900 miles on it. started making a loud humming sound when making a turn and was taken to repair shop for inspection. we thought maybe it just needed a front end alignment. was told by the repair shop the alignment could not be done and the repairs were very much needed for our safety. reading on line i see many complaints about the same problem, but chrysler has only agreed to recall 4 wheel drive vehicles with this same problem. if dakota's with 2 wheel drive are having the same problem, why are they not included in the recall? | |||
| 12/14/2006 | 60000 | 1 | |
| 2003 dodge dakota, 2wd, 5 spd manual, v6. although a recall has been generated pertaining to the 4wd version only, my truck has the same issue. when i am driving at any speed and turning or going through a bump i hear a clunk which sounds like what is described on the existing recall for the 4wd only. i am concerned about this. *tr | |||
| 07/14/2008 | 56500 | 1 | |
| I was driving my truck over a speed hump going approx. ten mph when something sounded like it dropped, i put the truck into park and got out to find my right passenger side tire laying horizontal, but still attached to the truck. i had to have it towed and i was informed that my upper ball joint had broke along with the half shaft/cv joint. i called dodge because i was told there was a recall on the ball joints and they said they couldn't help me because my truck is no longer under warranty. i don't think i should be responsible for this repair. the truck only has 56,000 miles on it. *tr | |||
| 12/01/2006 | 19398 | 1 | 06/28/2003 |
| Popping noise in front end entering driveway or over speed bumps had dealer inspect and perform tsb. on upper ball joints per letter from chrysler corp. they did repair and told me the hub bearings were also bad not covered, 552.00 i replaced them myself i can't find a problem the hubs . the noise is still there ! *jb | |||
| 05/01/2004 | 35000 | 1 | 11/30/2002 |
| Front suspension popping when stopping and turning. *ak | |||
| 01/09/2004 | 1 | 06/07/2003 | |
| While driving on md rt 468 at approximately 7:10 am on january 9, 2004, the driver of my truck hit a small patch of ice at which time the truck went into a 360 degree spin. at some point during the spin the front wheel came off at which time the driver lost complete control of the vehicle and it ran off of the road and hit three trees. an inspection of the wheel, tire rod and ball joint revealed that the ball joint was rusted and snapped off. *jb | |||
| 11000 | 1 | 02/01/2003 | |
| While driving at a low speed, the consumer heard a loud metal banging coming from the front end of vehicle. the dealership serviced the vehicle, but could not resolve the problem. *ak the front upper ball joints were prematurely worn out and had to be replaced. dodge suggested that nothing was wrong with the vehicle. *sc | |||
| 12 | 1 | ||
| (front end suspension problem) the vehicle had been checked three times with no improvement because of the unstable balance of the vehicle. the dealership suggested that the consumer change the tires and shocks and place sand bags on in the vehicle to stabilize the balance. *ak *sc *jb | |||
| 10/26/2003 | 5000 | 1 | 11/30/2002 |
| While driving, the vehicle swerved to the left without warning and the vehicle to hit a tree and rolled over. the dealer believed that the cause was due to front end suspension failure, however the airbags deployed upon impact. *ak *scc | |||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - CONTROL ARM | |||
| 03/13/2003 | 1 | 08/22/2003 | |
| There has been a startling number of ball joint failures in the 1998-2003 dodge dakota and dodge durango vehicles. i own a 2003 dakota, and had an independent mechanic inspect mine. because my vehicle only had 8500 miles on it at the time, the ball joints checked out ok. it was his estimation that because of the greaseless fitting, however, i could expect the same problem so many other dakota owners have had in the near future. these parts should last 100,000 miles, but the ones on these dodge vehicles fail at about 25,000 to 30,000. i have voiced my concerns to dodge. the person i talked to at their recall center acknowledged the problem and that their was an investigation ongoing at this time, and told me to listen for clunking noises in the front end of the vehicle. of the reports i've seen of failure of the joint, few say there was any warning of this type, however.*ak | |||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - CONTROL ARM - LOWER BALL JOINT | |||
| 08/26/2004 | 50000 | 1 | |
| I have a 2003 dodge dakota sport quad cab 4 wheel drive vehicle. i've had an embarrassing squeak in my steering and front end for 4 years. after listening to it for a while after purchasing, i took it to trail dodge on 08/26/04 and complained. the service note said customer states there is a loud squeaking noise from right side suspension area while driving. inspected and road tested and could not duplicate customer's concerns, no noises heard at this time (wet out) did inspect front end all is tight. it took it in to fury motors, south st. paul, mn, at about 36,000 miles and the same. they could not find it at that time. noise persisted, till it's now embarrassing to drive the vehicle all together. today, may 12, 2008, i brought it back to fury motors, because of the sound, that has progressively gotten worse (now 50,000 miles), and they tell me i need both upper and both lower ball joints, to the tune of $1500!!!! then i get on line and find out there has been a recall (nhtsa action #ea03023). i called fury motors to let them know and they state my vin number is not included in the recall. it has been the same sound that was progressively getting worse and worse, and now i find out it could have been disastrous and i'm not covered??? please help! *tr | |||
| 01/15/2007 | 48318 | 2 | 05/20/2005 |
| 2003 dodge dakota 4x4 pickup 1d7h32n03s124289 loud clunking noises, front end, steering loosesness,skittishness, severe vibration and poor handling felt in front end section of vehicle. (purchased from mitchell simsbury,ct )brought to local dealer who diagnosed & replaced (2)bad /defective upper ball joints 17011019 but charged for parts/service. approx mileage:48,318 very premature for good product design & reliability. dangerous safety related defects. *nm | |||
| 04/21/2005 | 31600 | 1 | 07/01/2003 |
| The right front lower control arm ball joint separated causing my 2003 dodge dakota to run off the road and swerve to the right. the truck hit a parked car and both vehicles were totaled. there was no noise or indication of any problem prior to the incident. mileage was 31,600.*ak | |||
| 09/11/2004 | 28000 | 2 | 09/01/2003 |
| Squealing brakes, unusual front tire wear, grinding noise on left front wheel when turn hard left, worn outside walls on front tires and replacement and brake work done at midas . *ak | |||
| 12/10/2004 | 50600 | 1 | 08/21/2003 |
| While driving at 30 mph vehicle all of a sudden and without warning pulled to the right and lost steering control. it was towed to the dealer, who n informed the consumer that the entire upper and lower ball joints needed to be replaced. *ak | |||
| 12/01/2004 | 13000 | 1 | 10/13/2003 |
| I am posting this complaint due to recent problems i am having with my 2003 dodge dakota slt plus 4x4 pickup. my vehicle has approx. 13,000 miles and is already displaying considerable wear due to defective front end ball joints. the vehicle is making a popping noise when turns are made into my driveway and parking deck at work. the vehicle has been checked independently and confirmed that this is the issue. i urge the nhtsa to continue in their efforts to fight for a recall of these defective ball joints from the manufacturer, daimlerchrysler. please feel free to contact me if you would like any additional information.*ak | |||
| 07/10/2004 | 30000 | 1 | 11/09/2002 |
| Took vehicle in for a blower fan problem, and told the service manager of a squeak going around corners. found that the ball joints were worn and require replacing. only 32,000 miles on vehicle. *ak | |||
| 05/18/2004 | 29 | 1 | 05/20/2003 |
| Worn ball joints at less than 30000 miles. *ak | |||
| 1 | |||
| While driving 10 mph consumer heard a noise coming from the front of the vehicle. vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the upper and lower ball joints needed to be replaced. *ak | |||
| 03/13/2003 | 1 | 08/22/2003 | |
| There has been a startling number of ball joint failures in the 1998-2003 dodge dakota and dodge durango vehicles. i own a 2003 dakota, and had an independent mechanic inspect mine. because my vehicle only had 8500 miles on it at the time, the ball joints checked out ok. it was his estimation that because of the greaseless fitting, however, i could expect the same problem so many other dakota owners have had in the near future. these parts should last 100,000 miles, but the ones on these dodge vehicles fail at about 25,000 to 30,000. i have voiced my concerns to dodge. the person i talked to at their recall center acknowledged the problem and that their was an investigation ongoing at this time, and told me to listen for clunking noises in the front end of the vehicle. of the reports i've seen of failure of the joint, few say there was any warning of this type, however.*ak | |||
| 12/05/2003 | 33500 | 1 | 10/08/2003 |
| Ball joint replacement on 1998 dodge dakota | |||
| 01/16/2003 | 1 | 01/17/2003 | |
| 2003 dodge dakota with 19,000 miles. i have been told that the ball joints will need replacing very soon. *cb | |||
| 11/02/2003 | 5400 | 1 | 12/31/2002 |
| Driving down the road heard a bang lost control of the truck and hit a parked car. car was towed away and fixed body shop and front end shop said tie rod and ball joint snapped off clean this truck only has 5000 miles on it, also i have all the damaged parts if any body wants to test them. *la | |||
| 10/28/2003 | 14000 | 1 | |
| While driving at 55 mph on the highway consumer lost control of vehicle and crashed into the guard rail. the driver was injuried and transported by ambulance to the hospital.a police report was done. the vehicle was towed to the dealer for analysis. the mechanic detected that both frontal ball joints cracked. *ak | |||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - CONTROL ARM - UPPER ARM | |||
| 11/06/2003 | 3000 | 1 | |
| When hitting any size bump in the road the vehicle looses control. dealer states that upper control arm bolt malfunctioned. *ak | |||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - CONTROL ARM - UPPER BALL JOINT | |||
| 06/30/2008 | 104000 | 1 | 11/18/2003 |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 dodge dakota. while accelerating from a stop light, the front passenger side upper ball joint failed. the front tire became disconnected and detached from the vehicle. the vehicle was towed to a repair shop and the cause of the failure was confirmed. the manufacturer stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign id number 04v596000 (suspension:front:control arm:upper ball joint). the current and failure mileages were 104,000. updated 09/10/08 *bf updated 09/15/08 *jb | |||
| 08/26/2004 | 50000 | 1 | |
| I have a 2003 dodge dakota sport quad cab 4 wheel drive vehicle. i've had an embarrassing squeak in my steering and front end for 4 years. after listening to it for a while after purchasing, i took it to trail dodge on 08/26/04 and complained. the service note said customer states there is a loud squeaking noise from right side suspension area while driving. inspected and road tested and could not duplicate customer's concerns, no noises heard at this time (wet out) did inspect front end all is tight. it took it in to fury motors, south st. paul, mn, at about 36,000 miles and the same. they could not find it at that time. noise persisted, till it's now embarrassing to drive the vehicle all together. today, may 12, 2008, i brought it back to fury motors, because of the sound, that has progressively gotten worse (now 50,000 miles), and they tell me i need both upper and both lower ball joints, to the tune of $1500!!!! then i get on line and find out there has been a recall (nhtsa action #ea03023). i called fury motors to let them know and they state my vin number is not included in the recall. it has been the same sound that was progressively getting worse and worse, and now i find out it could have been disastrous and i'm not covered??? please help! *tr | |||
| 06/16/2007 | 23198 | 1 | 04/16/2003 |
| Tl*the contact owns a 2003 dodge dakota 4x2. the contact stated that the upper ball joints were corroded. the failure was noticed while driving 45 mph. a mechanic repaired the vehicle. the contact believes that the failure is a safety hazard. the current and failure mileages were 23,198. | |||
| 12/01/2006 | 19398 | 1 | 06/28/2003 |
| Popping noise in front end entering driveway or over speed bumps had dealer inspect and perform tsb. on upper ball joints per letter from chrysler corp. they did repair and told me the hub bearings were also bad not covered, 552.00 i replaced them myself i can't find a problem the hubs . the noise is still there ! *jb | |||
| 03/07/2006 | 48000 | 1 | 11/22/2002 |
| Experienced clunking noise in front suspension. ball joint subsequently failed causing front wheel to separate from the vehicle while operating. *nm | |||
| 01/01/1901 | 1 | ||
| 2003 dodge dakota experiencing problems with the ball joints as well as the welds of the truck bed at the upper part near the rear window.*mr a recall was issued for the upper ball joints (04v596000) but the dealer wanted the consumer to pay to diagnose the problem. there are plastic rivets on both side panels that attach to the rear panel truck bed. the rear panel truck bed is so weak that about five pounds of pressure bent the panel. the consumer believes the plastic bed liner is stronger than the rear truck bed panel *nm | |||
| 09/07/2005 | 1 | ||
| My husband took his 2003 dodge dakota to a dodge dealership for recall work to be done. a front ball joint had to be replaced (to keep the front end of the truck from falling apart while driving and killing everyone.) when he took it in it drove fine. after the work was done, it pulls to the right. i called another dodge service department to ask them about procedure, they said that an alignment is standard procedure when completing that type of work, but that the car owner is screwed when it comes to recall work. i then called the manufacturer who told me basically the same thing. that's not right!! i should not have to fork over money to have fixed what they screwed up! please fix this. *jb | |||
| 08/15/2004 | 6000 | 1 | 02/13/2003 |
| Dt: 2003 dodge dakota. the consumer received manufacturer's 35190558 concerning upper ball joints failure. consumer called the dealer, and the dealer urged the consumer to call the manufacturer. the consumer called the manufacturer, and they said to call the dealer back. the consumer complained, was getting the run around from both places. the dealership said there must be a certified mechanic to have the repairs done. the only certified mechanic was in anchorage, alaska . there were no roads to the village where consumer lived, could only get there by airplane. *ak | |||
| 12/01/2004 | 1 | 04/01/2003 | |
| Dt: the contact states there is a recall on 2003 dodge dakota concerning the upper ball joint. the contact feels the problem is going to continue because water runs down between where the door opens leading to the front suspension. the consumer has contacted two service dealers . the consumer has not contacted the manufacturer. *ak | |||
| 01/01/1901 | 1 | ||
| 2003 dodge dakota upper left ball joint had to be replaced.*mr the consumer requested that the dealer also replace the upper right ball joint but they refused stating that the manufacturer wouldn't cover the replacement until it failed. *nm | |||
| 12/22/2004 | 1 | ||
| The vehicle failed a required state inspection because the vehicle's upper ball joints were unsafe. *nm the consumer has since learned that there was a safety recall and warranty extension on the upper ball joints. he feels he should be reimbursed for the upper ball joint repair. *nm | |||
| 01/03/2005 | 1 | ||
| Nhtsa recall campaign 04v596000; daimler chrysler issued a front upper ball joint recall. this vehicle was not included in the recall, but the left front ball joint fell off.*ak | |||
| 05/19/2004 | 25835 | 1 | |
| I own a 2003 dodge dakota 4x4 has problem with ball joints. front end alignment pulling to the right. consumer wants to be reimbursed for time and labor. *bf the engine light illuminate. the dealer found that there was an evaporator leak which was caused by an aftermarket fuel cap. *jb | |||
| 09/11/2004 | 28000 | 2 | 09/01/2003 |
| Squealing brakes, unusual front tire wear, grinding noise on left front wheel when turn hard left, worn outside walls on front tires and replacement and brake work done at midas . *ak | |||
| 01/07/2005 | 1 | ||
| Nhtsa campaign 04v596000; daimler chrysler issued an upper ball joint recall. this vehicle is included in the recall, but there are no appointments available until march, which could be dangerous if vehicle is driven because the front wheels could fall off.*ak | |||
| 12/11/2004 | 60000 | 1 | |
| The truck was taken to the dealership to have the ball joints inspected because of the tv broadcast. upon inspection the dealership indicated that both the upper and lower ball joints were worn and needed replacement. only the upper ball joints were replaced. *jb | |||
| 12/10/2004 | 50600 | 1 | 08/21/2003 |
| While driving at 30 mph vehicle all of a sudden and without warning pulled to the right and lost steering control. it was towed to the dealer, who n informed the consumer that the entire upper and lower ball joints needed to be replaced. *ak | |||
| 12/01/2004 | 1 | ||
| Consumer hears a clicking noise coming from the upper ball joints. this is causing the vehicle to shake lightly especially when traveling at low speeds and making turns. consumer will wait to take vehicle to dealer for repairs.*ak | |||
| 12/01/2004 | 13000 | 1 | 10/13/2003 |
| I am posting this complaint due to recent problems i am having with my 2003 dodge dakota slt plus 4x4 pickup. my vehicle has approx. 13,000 miles and is already displaying considerable wear due to defective front end ball joints. the vehicle is making a popping noise when turns are made into my driveway and parking deck at work. the vehicle has been checked independently and confirmed that this is the issue. i urge the nhtsa to continue in their efforts to fight for a recall of these defective ball joints from the manufacturer, daimlerchrysler. please feel free to contact me if you would like any additional information.*ak | |||
| 11/01/2004 | 1 | ||
| 2003 dodge dakota ball joint failure at low miles. ball joints squeaking, noise was constant, replaced both upper joints. *bf the vehicle ball joints began to squeak at 20000 miles but the consumer didn't realize the severity of the noise. at 40000 mile the consumer inspected the joint because the squeak had turned into a clunk and was constant. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the consumer that both upper joints had to be replaced. *nm | |||
| 07/10/2004 | 30000 | 1 | 11/09/2002 |
| Took vehicle in for a blower fan problem, and told the service manager of a squeak going around corners. found that the ball joints were worn and require replacing. only 32,000 miles on vehicle. *ak | |||
| 06/02/2004 | 24775 | 1 | 11/09/2002 |
| At 24775 miles; the right upper ball joint failed on my 2003 dodge dakota 4x2. *ak | |||
| 05/18/2004 | 29 | 1 | 05/20/2003 |
| Worn ball joints at less than 30000 miles. *ak | |||
| 02/10/2004 | 11000 | 2 | 01/17/2003 |
| Consumer took vehicle to dealer for an annual inspection, and mechanic determined that upper ball joints needed to be replaced, and replaced them with new ball joints. several weeks later the driver's side wheel collapsed.*ak consumer is seeking chrysler to replace the vehicle. *la | |||
| 1 | |||
| While driving 10 mph consumer heard a noise coming from the front of the vehicle. vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the upper and lower ball joints needed to be replaced. *ak | |||
| 03/13/2003 | 1 | 08/22/2003 | |
| There has been a startling number of ball joint failures in the 1998-2003 dodge dakota and dodge durango vehicles. i own a 2003 dakota, and had an independent mechanic inspect mine. because my vehicle only had 8500 miles on it at the time, the ball joints checked out ok. it was his estimation that because of the greaseless fitting, however, i could expect the same problem so many other dakota owners have had in the near future. these parts should last 100,000 miles, but the ones on these dodge vehicles fail at about 25,000 to 30,000. i have voiced my concerns to dodge. the person i talked to at their recall center acknowledged the problem and that their was an investigation ongoing at this time, and told me to listen for clunking noises in the front end of the vehicle. of the reports i've seen of failure of the joint, few say there was any warning of this type, however.*ak | |||
| 01/29/2004 | 11186 | 1 | 02/27/2003 |
| Upperball joint premature failure 11,000 miles. *ak | |||
| 01/16/2003 | 1 | 01/17/2003 | |
| 2003 dodge dakota with 19,000 miles. i have been told that the ball joints will need replacing very soon. *cb | |||
| 07/04/2003 | 35000 | 1 | |
| Vehicle vibrated when it exceeded speeds of 45 mph. this was due to premature wear of the upper ball joints. this was a common problem, per the dealership. *ak | |||
| 12/02/2003 | 68500 | 2 | 10/05/2003 |
| While vehicle was getting a regular check up consumer found that the upper ball joints wore out, and the nut holding them together was stripped completely. *ak there was abnormal tire wear seven weeks earlier. the dealer checked the front end for noise and found no problem. *sc | |||
| 17000 | 1 | 01/15/2003 | |
| Consumer heard a noise coming from the front end of vehicle. dealer replaced the upper ball joints, but the noise continued. *ak | |||
| 12/19/2003 | 2869 | 4 | 03/11/2002 |
| I recently saw a cbs news story concerning the upper ball joints of dodge dakotas wearing out prematurely. my dakota is a 2002. i have taken in into my local dodge dealorship repeatedly because i heard a knocking sound when making a turn, especially on an incline. every time i have taken it in, they are never able to duplicate the problem. i have even taken the mechanic for a ride with me after they had it all morning and the noise, sure enough, can't be duplicated while he is in the truck. but sure enough, 3 or 4 days later the noise comes back. and the porcess repeats again. i take it, they can't find it, i take the mechanic and the noise is gone, 3 or 4 days letter - hello - its back! can you help me? fyi: for the incident date, i just put today's date. i took the truck in with the same complaint on 5/24/2002; 12/6/2002; & 9/3/2003 . *ak | |||
| 12/04/2003 | 58000 | 1 | 11/01/2002 |
| The front upper ball joints wore out prematurely. the consumer could hear loud noises coming from the steering column. the dealership was notified but was unable to resolve the problem. *ak the consumer contacted the manufacture but was refused any assistance for repairs. *nm | |||
| 11/25/2003 | 1 | 09/27/2003 | |
| Rh side - upper ball joint needs replacement at 15,700 miles. dealer found ball joint to be out of spec after an inspection was requested during routine service. *la | |||
| 11/02/2003 | 5400 | 1 | 12/31/2002 |
| Driving down the road heard a bang lost control of the truck and hit a parked car. car was towed away and fixed body shop and front end shop said tie rod and ball joint snapped off clean this truck only has 5000 miles on it, also i have all the damaged parts if any body wants to test them. *la | |||
| 10/28/2003 | 14000 | 1 | |
| While driving at 55 mph on the highway consumer lost control of vehicle and crashed into the guard rail. the driver was injuried and transported by ambulance to the hospital.a police report was done. the vehicle was towed to the dealer for analysis. the mechanic detected that both frontal ball joints cracked. *ak | |||
| SUSPENSION - FRONT - WHEEL BEARING | |||
| 04/21/2005 | 31600 | 07/15/2003 | |
| Consumer states: lower control arm ball joint right front separted and wheel and came off vehicle while in motion | |||
| SUSPENSION - REAR | |||
| 06/12/2003 | 700 | 1 | 05/31/2003 |
| While driving the rear of the vehicle vibrated and the tires bounced up and down. *ak *cb *nlm | |||