At a Glance
The Dodge Dakota has 0 identified common problems across 3 generations (1987–2011) and suspension the most common problem category. Based on 2K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Dodge Dakota common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Dodge Dakota generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
Tell Us About Your Problem
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Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Dodge Dakota owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Dodge Dakota Generations
Select a generation to see its specific problems, MOT failures and advisories
First Generation
Most common MOT failure: Brake performance below minimum
Second Generation
Most common MOT failure: Brake performance below minimum
Third Generation
Most common MOT failure: Indicator fault
Most Common Dodge Dakota MOT Failures
Every reason Dodge Dakota vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 11.98% |
| 2 | Brake performance below minimum | 6.56% |
| 3 | Fog lamp not working | 5.95% |
| 4 | Indicator fault | 5.14% |
| 5 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 4.87% |
| 6 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 4.60% |
| 7 | Number plate lamp not working | 3.79% |
| 8 | Front lamp not working | 3.59% |
| 9 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 3.32% |
| 10 | Front suspension joint worn | 3.11% |
| 11 | Exhaust system fault | 2.84% |
| 12 | Stop lamp not working | 2.77% |
| 13 | Ball joint dust cover split | 2.64% |
| 14 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 2.50% |
| 15 | Track rod end worn | 2.10% |
| 16 | Catalytic converter efficiency low | 1.96% |
| 17 | Rear fog lamp not working | 1.83% |
| 18 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 1.83% |
| 19 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 1.35% |
| 20 | Brake disc or drum worn | 1.29% |
| 21 | Tyre condition | 1.29% |
| 22 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 1.29% |
| 23 | Brake pads or linings worn | 1.22% |
| 24 | Headlamp fault | 1.15% |
| 25 | Position lamp not working | 1.15% |
| 26 | Steering rack fault | 1.15% |
| 27 | Windscreen washer not working | 1.08% |
| 28 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 1.01% |
| 29 | Headlamp aim defect | 1.01% |
| 30 | Rear lamp not working | 0.95% |
| 31 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.88% |
| 32 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.81% |
| 33 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.74% |
| 34 | ABS fault | 0.68% |
| 35 | Front suspension fault | 0.68% |
| 36 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.68% |
| 37 | Seat belt condition | 0.68% |
| 38 | Parking brake condition | 0.54% |
| 39 | Chassis condition | 0.47% |
| 40 | Driveshaft fault | 0.47% |
| 41 | Horn not working | 0.47% |
| 42 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.47% |
| 43 | Airbag warning light on | 0.41% |
| 44 | Brake lever fault | 0.41% |
| 45 | Electrical switch fault | 0.41% |
| 46 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.41% |
| 47 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 0.34% |
| 48 | Body corrosion or damage | 0.27% |
| 49 | Power steering pipe or hose leaking | 0.27% |
| 50 | Rear suspension fault | 0.27% |
| 51 | Steering free play excessive | 0.27% |
| 52 | Brake fluid leak | 0.20% |
| 53 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.20% |
| 54 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.20% |
| 55 | Spare wheel fault | 0.20% |
| 56 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.20% |
| 57 | Wheel bearing worn | 0.20% |
| 58 | Body security fault | 0.14% |
| 59 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.14% |
| 60 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.14% |
| 61 | Fuel tank corroded or leaking | 0.14% |
| 62 | Rear fog lamp warning light fault | 0.14% |
| 63 | Steering operation fault | 0.14% |
| 64 | Steering shaft fault | 0.14% |
| 65 | Universal joint worn | 0.14% |
| 66 | Suspension mounting corroded | 0.14% |
| 67 | Towbar fault | 0.14% |
| 68 | Brake cable, rod, lever or linkage fault | 0.07% |
| 69 | Brake fluid level low or contaminated | 0.07% |
| 70 | Brake fluid warning light on | 0.07% |
| 71 | Brake pedal fault | 0.07% |
| 72 | Brake valve fault | 0.07% |
| 73 | Compression ignition emissions above threshold | 0.07% |
| 74 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.07% |
| 75 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.07% |
| 76 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.07% |
| 77 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.07% |
| 78 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.07% |
| 79 | Indicator warning light fault | 0.07% |
| 80 | Leaf spring broken or corroded | 0.07% |
| 81 | Leaf spring shackle bracket corroded | 0.07% |
| 82 | Power steering pump fault | 0.07% |
| 83 | Propshaft fault | 0.07% |
| 84 | Reversing lamp not working | 0.07% |
| 85 | Speedometer fault | 0.07% |
| 86 | Steering arm worn | 0.07% |
| 87 | Steering drive system fault | 0.07% |
| 88 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.07% |
| 89 | Steering coupling worn | 0.07% |
Showing all 89 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Dodge Dakota MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Dodge Dakota, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Dodge Dakota problems?
Based on analysis of 2K Dodge Dakota MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 0 identified common problems across 3 generations. Suspension is the most common problem category.
Which Dodge Dakota generation has the most problems?
We haven't identified significant problem patterns specific to any single generation of the Dodge Dakota yet — either this is a well-engineered model across all its generations, or the sample size per generation is still small. Check individual generation pages for MOT failure and advisory breakdowns.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Dodge Dakota?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Dodge Dakota owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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