2004 Dodge Dakota Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Poor fuel economy probably ended the life of the R/T performance trim. Its 5.9-liter, 250-hp engine was discontinued in the 2004 Dodge...
Poor fuel economy probably ended the life of the R/T performance trim. Its 5.9-liter, 250-hp engine was discontinued in the 2004 Dodge Dakota, though speedy drivers and tuners loved that extra power in a mid-size truck. More practical, yet still packing a wallop, was the top of the line 4.7, 235-hp V8. It could haul like the full-size pickups and was fun to drive on open roads (or off-roading as well). The 3.9-liter, 175-hp V6 was updated to a 3.7-liter, 210-hp V6 as the standard engine on all models.
Introduced midyear in 2003, the Stampede package returned, available on both regular and extended cab Sports trims. The name is probably more exciting than the features, which included rear stabilizer bar, body-colored front and rear bumpers, and a Tire and Handling package. All models came with ABS standard, 2WD, with 4WD optional. Bed sizes hadn't changed. Regular and Club Cabs featured a 6.5-foot bed, while the 4-door Crew Cab had only a 5.3-foot bed, to account for the 13 inches of extra space in the cab for rear bench seats.
The 4-door Dodge Dakota was definitely the most successful pickup in its class, offering comfort and personality, a family car dressed up in a powerful pickup truck package. Though roomy and burly, resembling the larger Dodge Ram, the 2004 Dakota handled easily like a car, and with the 4.7 V8 and an empty bed, could kick up some considerable dust. High marks for the look, suspension, engine power, and the easy access to seats and storage in the 4-door models. Low marks for gas mileage (15/20), pricey options, and repair records.
What owners say
"Overall, owners appreciate the 2004 Dodge Dakota for its versatility and power, especially those with the V8 engine. Many find it reliable and a good size for both leisure and work. However, some drivers experienced significant issues, particularly with the transmission and maintenance problems, which detracted from their enjoyment. Fuel economy seems to be a concern for several, though some are pleased with the efficiency."
This truck is built perfectly for what I need. It doesn't guzzle fuel, and the bed size isn't terribly affected by having the full four door cab. It has 330,000 kms on it and it runs like brand new. Lots of low end torque with great towing capacity. It looks great, and I really baby the exterior, so it does not look like the mileage that's on it! The only complaint would be that the 3.7L engine feels a tad small for the truck, but I'm sure that's a big contributor to my fuel mileage, which is 23-26 mpg on the highway. Never had to replace any major components other than those that wear out under normal circumstances (knock wood) and the truck is one of the most attractive style wise on the road. I would strongly recommend this truck to anybody who wants a reliable vehicle that is capable of handling most tasks.
August 24, 2008The truck was a good value for what I paid. It is V6, automatic, quad cab, 2WD. I was actually looking for a V8 Club cab 4WD, but couldnt find one in my price range. So for now, this one will do just fine.
March 15, 2020This truck is an absolute off-road beast. Equipped with locking diffs an 4.6L V8 there's hardly a place where it cannot go. The only real complaint about this truck was the size. For such a big vehicle the cab was extremely small and uncomfortable, especially head room and hip room. Fuel economy was also pathetic with the off-road package.
August 17, 2009What owners say
This truck is built perfectly for what I need. It doesn't guzzle fuel, and the bed size isn't terribly affected by having the full four door cab. It has 330,000 kms on it and it runs like brand new. Lots of low end torque with great towing capacity. It looks great, and I really baby the exterior, so it does not look like the mileage that's on it! The only complaint would be that the 3.7L engine feels a tad small for the truck, but I'm sure that's a big contributor to my fuel mileage, which is 23-26 mpg on the highway. Never had to replace any major components other than those that wear out under normal circumstances (knock wood) and the truck is one of the most attractive style wise on the road. I would strongly recommend this truck to anybody who wants a reliable vehicle that is capable of handling most tasks.
August 24, 2008The truck was a good value for what I paid. It is V6, automatic, quad cab, 2WD. I was actually looking for a V8 Club cab 4WD, but couldnt find one in my price range. So for now, this one will do just fine.
March 15, 2020This truck is an absolute off-road beast. Equipped with locking diffs an 4.6L V8 there's hardly a place where it cannot go. The only real complaint about this truck was the size. For such a big vehicle the cab was extremely small and uncomfortable, especially head room and hip room. Fuel economy was also pathetic with the off-road package.
August 17, 2009I’ve had a 2004 4 door with the 4.7 V8. It’s a great truck. For leisure or work. I used it for both. Never failed me. Couldn’t give it 5 stars because nothing is perfect.
November 25, 2023Can be a solid truck if kept in good condition inside and out and has lower mileage and no frame rust.
January 1, 2021the accel is awesome the engine is big enough, i got a 5.8l v8 in mine very good towing really good for both off road and on road.
May 28, 2008This truck has exceptionally low miles for a 2004 truck (less then 9,000 miles avg. per year) and has every extra you could want with the addition of an after market exhaust. It's in excellent mechanical condition with no leaks. Great truck! Thanks for looking.
January 17, 2012I really like my truck. Crew cab is the only way to go. Fun to drive with manual trans. I like the look of the 2nd Gen Dakotas alot more than the ugly new ones. Really awesome truck. The only thing I wish is that there were more aftermarket parts (like lift kits and performance chips) available.
August 12, 2008Good 4x4, good power. decent pulling for a midsize truck. just about 120,000 and very few issues. 4.7 V8 has a nice rumble with a dynomax exhaust. Decent fuel mileage on highway. Looks good, simple interior. I enjoy driving it. Handles the larger tires well, doesn't take much extra power to turn them.
October 18, 2011Great little truck.Like the features and perfect in size.
February 24, 2023Trims & specs
Base MSRP $20,420 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $21,980 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $18,690 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $22,825 | Seating 2 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $18,690 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $20,530 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $20,955 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $23,790 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $20,515 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $19,530 | Seating 2 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $23,715 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $20,420 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $21,980 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $26,395 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $23,615 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $27,435 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $27,435 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $24,690 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $25,480 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $22,715 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $24,690 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $25,480 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $22,715 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $17,845 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $23,715 | Seating 3 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $25,580 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $21,715 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $25,580 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $22,260 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $23,815 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $22,260 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $23,815 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $20,530 | Seating 6 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $25,150 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.7L 210 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4WD |
