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Safety and Reliability Ratings > 2002 > Dodge > DAKOTA

2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT
Pickup
4 wheel drive


CARFAX has collected the industry's leading used car safety and reliability ratings into one, convenient report. With this report, you'll know the safety and reliability of your next used car. All information presented in this report is specific to the 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT. Please view the CARFAX Vehicle History Report for the detailed history of a specific used DODGE.

 

CARFAX Safety Section One  Safety:

This information will help you select a vehicle model that meets your expectations for safety and security.

CARFAX Safety Section Two  Reliability:

Use this information to check how reliable a vehicle model is before you buy.


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NHTSA Crash Test Results National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration
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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) did not test this vehicle model.

Frontal Crash: Rating:   NHTSA Five Star Legend
Driver Not tested by NHTSA
Passenger Not tested by NHTSA
Side Crash: Rating:
Front Seat Not tested by NHTSA
Rear Seat Not tested by NHTSA
Rollover Resistance: Rating:
Rollover Resistance Not tested by NHTSA

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides 3 different ratings - full-width frontal crash test , side impact crash test , and rollover resistance . The frontal crash test indicates how well the safety features and restraints will protect an occupant in a head-on collision. The side-impact test conveys the chance of a severe chest injury, while the rollover resistance rating estimates the risk of rolling over in a single vehicle crash.


IIHS Crash Test Results Highway Loss Data Institute
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Frontal Offset Crash Test Rating:   4 star legend
Overall Evaluation   P
Structure/Safety Cage   M
Injury Measures  
Head/Neck   P
Chest   G
Leg/foot, left   A
Leg/foot, right   A
Restraints/dummy kinematics   P
Important: Frontal crash test ratings can be compared only among vehicles of similar weight. <p>The Dodge Dakota was redesigned for the 1997 model year.</p> Dummy movement wasn't well controlled. There was far too much upward movement of the steering wheel and floor buckling tilted the driver seat forward and toward the door. After the dummy moved forward into the airbag, it rebounded toward the driver door, and its head hit the inside of the door above the armrest. Measures taken from the chest indicate low risk of injuries in this body region in a crash of this severity. A high head acceleration and high neck forces occurred when the dummy's head hit the steering wheel through the airbag, indicating that injuries to the head and neck would be likely. Forces on both tibias indicate that injuries to the lower legs would be possible. Head acceleration from the door hit was low. 1998 Dodge Dakota Sport (2wd regular cab) 3589 none 112 196 72 3.9 L V6 16 21

Crash Tested Vehicle: Details | Vehicle Specifications

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) uses frontal offset and side impact crash tests to estimate the crashworthiness of a vehicle. These results are good indicators of how a frontal and side impact can structurally impact a 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT . The crashworthiness data for this 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT was provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Learn more about these crash test results.



Low-Speed Damage Repair Highway Loss Data Institute
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Front Crash Description: Front Crash Cost:
Front into flat barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Front into angle barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Rear Crash Description: Rear Crash Cost:
Rear into flat barrier   Not tested by IIHS
Rear into pole   Not tested by IIHS
Average Damage Per Test   Not tested by IIHS

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducts four 5 mph crash tests to assess bumper performance. These results convey how well this 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT bumpers will protect the car body from damage in low-speed collisions. Low-speed damage repair costs are obtained from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute.


Injury, Collision, & Theft Indicators Highway Loss Data Institute
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Index: Score: Rating:
Injury Index 68 Substantially better than average
Collision Index 100 Average
Theft Index 79 Average


These scores are stated in relative terms, with 100 being the average for all cars in each category. Scores greater than 100 represent higher risk in each category. For example, an injury indicator score of 122 means that a passenger in this model is 22% more likely to be injured in an accident. The injury, collision, and theft indicators for this 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT are provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Learn more about these results.



Safety Recalls
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NHTSA Safety Recalls:
Important: The following recalls were issued for the 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA). To find out if a specific 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT still has open recalls that require repair, CARFAX recommends contacting an authorized dealership for more information.

Recall date: Not reported
Units potentially affected: 50,082
NHTSA campaign number: 03V389000
Defective part or component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Description: On certain pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions, the headlamp and dash wiring harness may be chafed by the actuation of the clutch pedal. This could result in abnormal operation of the wipers, turn signals, horn or lighting systems. This could affect driver visibility, could prevent a driver from sounding a warning by using the horn, and, when the turn signals are inoperative, the driver cannot use them to signal intent to turn, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will reroute the wire harness and repair the harness if necessary. Owner notification is expected to begin during November 2003. Owners should contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-992-1997.
Recall date: 03-01-2004
Units potentially affected: 35,692
NHTSA campaign number: 03V505000
Defective part or component: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Description: On certain minivans and 4x2 pickup trucks, the vehicle certification label may have gross axle weight ratings (GAWR) that exceed the maximum tire load capacity as defined in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, ""tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars."" Improperly loading your vehicle can cause tire failure and result in a crash. Owners will be provided with vehicle certification label overlays containing corrected information relative to vehicle GAWR and tire size. Owner notification began March 1, 2004. Owners should contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-992-1997.
Recall date: Not reported
Units potentially affected: 320,188
NHTSA campaign number: 04V216000
Defective part or component: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
Description: On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the windshield wiper module motor may be susceptible to water intrusion that could cause internal corrosion and result in partial or complete loss of front windshield wiping capability. Driver visibility could be reduced, which could result in a crash. Dealers will replace the front windshield wiper module. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign. Owners should contact DaimlerChrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Recall date: 12-21-2004
Units potentially affected: 592,707
NHTSA campaign number: 04V596000
Defective part or component: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:UPPER BALL JOINT
Description: 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. Excessive wear in the upper ball joint may allow it to separate, which could result in loss of control of the vehicle. 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.


This 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT safety recall information was provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Data Loss Institute and is derived from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration list of safety recalls. Please call the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236) to report safety defects or to obtain information on cars, trucks, child seats, and highway or traffic safety. CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by the National Highway Traffic and Saftey Administration, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



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J.D. Power Ratings
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Ownership: Rating:
Initial Ratings (up to 1 year)  
Overall Quality Rating 2.5 of 5
  Mechanical Quality Rating 2 of 5
  Feature and Accessory Quality Rating 3 of 5
  Body and Interior Quality Rating 3 of 5
Overall Appeal Rating 2.5 of 5
  Performance Rating 2.5 of 5
  Comfort Rating 3 of 5
  Feature and Instrument Panel Rating 2.5 of 5
  Style Rating 3 of 5
Midterm Ratings (1-3 Years)  
  Mechanical Reliability No data from source
  Feature and Accessory Reliability No data from source
  Body and Interior Reliability No data from source
Long Term Ratings (3-5 Years)  
Overall Dependability Rating 3 of 5
  Mechanical Dependability Rating 2 of 5
  Feature and Accessory Dependability Rating 3.5 of 5
  Body and Interior Dependability Rating 3.5 of 5

J.D. Power and Associates uses selected highlights from the firm's quality and customer satisfaction syndicated studies to create the Power Ratings at the model-level. These ratings and awards are based on model rankings within each vehicle segment, whereas Power Circle Ratings compare all models across segments.

All information provided by J.D. Power and Associates is proprietary information owned by J.D. Power and Associates and is protected by U.S. and international copyright law and conventions. Reproduction of this information, in whole or in part, by any means is prohibited without the express written consent of J.D. Power and Associates, other than printing copies of the JDPA content by site visitors for their personal use. J.D. Power and Associates® is a registered trademark of J.D. Power and Associates.



Identifix Reliability Ratings
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Category: Comments: Rating:
Engine Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Transmission & Driveline Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Steering & Suspension Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Brakes Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Heating & Air Conditioning Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Starting & Charging Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Accessories Infrequent problems reported, all with low repair costs Minimal Problems
Identifix Legend


This 2002 DODGE DAKOTA reliability information was provided by Identifix. Identifix is the nation's largest technical support service for the aftermarket auto repair industry. CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by Identifix, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Intellichoice Cost of Ownership & Value Rating Intellichoice
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Cost of Ownership (2002 - 2006):
Category:    Dakota SLT 4WD 2 Dr Regular Cab:
Depreciation $9,383
Financing $4,199
Insurance $6,300
State Fees $403
Fuel $5,914
Maintenance $1,618
Repairs $793
Total 5-Year Ownership Cost $28,610

Ownership costs are the costs to purchase and operate a vehicle over a period of time. Understanding these costs can save you money and help you make a wiser financial decision when it comes time to select a vehicle. Intellichoice is one of the leading providers of automotive information in the U.S.

Original Manufacturer Warranty
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Coverage: Years/Mileage:
Basic 3 years or 36,000 miles  
Drivetrain 3 years or 36,000 miles  
Emissions 2 years or 24,000 miles  
Corrosion 5 years or 100,000 miles  
Transferable All vehicles sold or leased from 11 years or 01/01 through 07/09/02 receive 7 years or 100,000 miles limited powertrain warranty, with a $100 deductible, that is not transferable unless transferred with CSC added care or maximum care for a $150 fee. miles  
Roadside Assistance Roadside assistance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles.  
Safety Belt & Inflatable Restraint No data from source  
Specific Components 8 years or 80,000  
Notes: Manufacturer covers emissions components under basic warranty. Emissions coverage may vary by state. Refer to owners manual for specific details. Transferable to second owner only. Transfer fee may apply based on build date. Corrosion coverage applies to outer panels. Inner panels are covered under corrosion for 3 years only. Roadside assistance free during basic coverage. Wear items are covered for 1 year or 12,000 miles. All vehicles sold or leased from 11/01/01 through 07/09/02 receive 7 years or 100,000 miles limited powertrain warranty, with a $100 deductible, that is not transferable unless transferred with CSC added care or maximum care for a $150 fee.  

This 2002 DODGE DAKOTA SLT warranty information has been provided by J&L Warranty Pros.


New Car Test Drive Review
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Category: Review:
Summary:

The biggest little truck you can buy.
By Dean Stevens, NewCarTestDrive.com

Dodge Dakota is a solid, well-built truck that can be fun to drive. The 4.7-liter V8 in our Quad Cab offers great performance and works seamlessly with the specially designed automatic transmission.

The added interior room of the Quad Cab makes it extremely convenient on a day-to-day basis. Along with the hauling capability of the bed, it's almost like having two vehicles in one.

If you don't want a full-size truck, but compact pickups seem too small, then the Dodge Dakota may be just the thing.

Overview:

We've often seen the Dodge Dakota classified as a mid-size pickup, or even as the mid-size pickup: smaller than a Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, or Dodge's own Ram, yet bigger than the Ford Ranger, Chevy S-10, GMC Sonoma, or Toyota Tacoma. Dodge strategically promotes the Dakota as the biggest, most powerful, most capable compact pickup on the market. Call it a compact and it's the only compact offering optional V8 power.

Whatever you call it, the Dakota offers more versatility than other compact pickups, without quite as much bulk as a full-size truck. Or as Shakespeare might have put it: A Dakota by any other name would be precisely the same size. And that size seems to fit some pickup buyers just right.

Dakota's biggest change for 2002 is the addition of the value-priced SXT, which offers sporty looks and features for under $17,000. And unlike some competitors' compact-trucks-with-attitude, SXT comes in two or four-wheel drive.

For more serious performance, Dakota continues to offer the big-engined R/T model, now with chromed wheels optional. Most Dakotas ride into 2002 with an increased GVW, and the rear-wheel anti-lock brake system (RWAL) now includes electronic brake apportioning (EBA) for more effective stopping and increased lining life.

Read the complete 2002 Dodge Dakota review

© 2002 NewCarTestDrive.com

CARFAX does not review, validate or edit the information and statements provided by NewCarTestDrive.com, which do not represent the opinion of CARFAX.



Awards
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View awardees recognized by Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com, Polk Automotive, and J.D. Power and Associates.



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