The problem
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.
The risk
Excessive wear in the upper ball joint May allow it to separate, which could result in loss of control of the vehicle.
The fix
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.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-596 (04V596000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | D47 |
| Manufacturer | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) |
| Component | Suspension › Front › Control arm › Upper ball joint |
| Report date | December 21, 2004 |
| Owners notified | December 21, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 592,707 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the suspension
- 2000 Dodge Dakota suspension problems 282
- 2001 Dodge Dakota suspension problems 236
- 2002 Dodge Dakota suspension problems 226
- 2003 Dodge Dakota suspension problems 100
- 2000 Dodge Durango suspension problems 507
- 2001 Dodge Durango suspension problems 265
- 2002 Dodge Durango suspension problems 144
- 2003 Dodge Durango suspension problems 91
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-596 repair free?
Yes. Dodge dealers will fix the problem at no cost: 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.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 592,707 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
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.