Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (wheels, lug nuts, original-equipment tires, TPMS).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1998 Dodge Dakota owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
52019555 For Dodge Dakota Pickup Spare Tire Hoist Wheel Carrier Winch Hanger. Defective Spare Tire Hoist Wheel Carrier Winch Hanger The Spare Tire Hoist Wheel Carrier Winch Hanger contains soft rubber part which disintegrates easily with the elements (rain, cold, dirt, wind, etc.). This allows friction between the metal carrier mechanism and the steel wire that holds the tire. The friction eventually "cuts" the wire which holds the 50 lbs+ spare tire setting it free and dropping from under the truck and onto the road while traveling (moving). Issue The "DEFECTIVE" Replacement part (Spare Tire Hoist Wheel Carrier Winch Hanger continues to be sold in the market with NO Modification. The part should be recalled and corrected to prevent an accident. Car models impacted: Dodge Dakota, Ram, Durango, etc. …
Engine experiences rough and low idle, and stalling, dealer has replaced throttle body, manifold gaskets, and valve body, however stalling still exists, dealer stated the combination of stopping, shifting, and the turning of the steering wheel causes the engine to stall, there was also an oil pan leak and coolant leak, purge solenoid was also noisy. Reverse lights had a defective switch and the headlights had a defective switch. Exhaust was noisy and the exhaust bolts were broken. Moldings were leaking, dealer had to also replace carpet. Brakes locked up, dealer found they were full of brake dust, front rotors gouged, dealer replaced brakes and rotors. Steering gear box and power steering gear assembly both leaked. …
While driving at 25 MPH, the driver heard a loud noise coming from the left rear of the vehicle. The consumer pulled over to investigate the noise and noticed that the left rear tire had blown out. After going to several tire dealers they offered no suggestions but to replace the tire at the consumers expense.
Dt*: the contact stated when the tires are aired up they slowly deflate. There is a NHTSA recall, # 04t001000, regarding the tires. The tires have the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it is not included in the recall due to the serial number. Updated 4/11/2006 -
Air conditioning hose leading to aluminum assembly failed due to cut in hose. Middle portion of hose rests directly over one corner of plastic air filter cover assembly. At the corner of air filter cover there is a small vertical spline that is part of the molded pastic lid cover. The thickness of the spline is similar to a common plastic picnic knife but without serrations. Apparently over time due to vibration while driving, the hose rubbed against this plastic spline wearing a 1/4 inch slit/hole. When the hose finally rubbed through, the refrigerant decompressed rapidly. I consider this a safety hazard as all automoble air conditioning refrigerant contains a certain amount of oil. When the refrigerant decompreses explosively or extremely rapidly, it creates a mist that is highly flammable. Tires. …
This tire blew out on the freeway with no warning at freeway speed,the tire destroyed the aluminium rim, I sent what was left of the tire to pirelli, they claim that their examination indicates no manufacturing defects, but that the "tire suffered an impact to the wheel at the 6:00 clock position the impact was severe enough to cause complete deflection of the tire down to the well smearing the interliner rubber on the well of the wheel." I did not have an impact, the tire blew out without warning. I have retained the tire and rim. I have 2 other tires on my vehicle and I am concerned that there May be a defect in the tire. (dot number: ckhfgbc356 tiresize: 215/75r15)
Tire blowout- the tires have less than 8000 miles on them Firestone firehawk p2257015 these are not on the list yet but I am concerned about them. Is anybody doing anything about this tire? Can I get them replaced at a lower cost, if they are not on the list? I do not want these tires on my truck.( dot number: hyuujba489 tire size: p2257015 )
Dealership service department contacted numerous occasions over past 7+ months with either no response or extremely slow response. Tansmission/brakes/shocks/tires, and seat belts, not repaired to date.( dot number: tire size: 235 75r15 )
Consume r was traveling about 60mph on highway and heard a noise. Vehicle was going left to right. He was able to pull over to the shoulders . Three out of four tire tread had separated from vehicle. Tires were Goodyear.
Tranmission ongoing, popping in rear ongoing, tires bald in 5,000 miles. Someone is going to get killed pulling out in traffic and having the transmission not work properly( dot number: tire size: p215 75r15 )
Wheel & Tire complaints in other Dakota years
Frequently asked questions
How common are wheel & tire problems on the 1998 Dodge Dakota?
NHTSA has 21 complaints about the wheels & tires of the 1998 Dodge Dakota, 4% of the model year's 545 complaints. The component named most often is lugs/nuts/bolts/studs (3 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1998 Dodge Dakota wheel & tire problems?
No. NHTSA lists no wheels & tires recall for the 1998 Dodge Dakota, though it has 5 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1998 Dodge Dakota wheel & tire problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 105,000 miles, and 25% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 2 crashes, 0 fires and 1 injury to wheels & tires problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.