So my friend gave me his old truck. Its a 1995 Dodge Dakota 4x4 extended cab with the V6. Manual.

Anyway the truck has alot of miles. 213k to be exact. On the original engine. It still runs good, doens't smoke, and is surprisingly peppy. I know it probably wont last long. Its gone from beening a casual dirt bike hauler to a full time driver.

What are some things I should look out for? What should I be looking at replacing? I have considered just buying a new car, but if it would be cheaper to just get a new engine, or a few other parts, I would rather do that.

Anyway, im looking for guidance, and what can you suggest? Also, if I were to fix it up, are there some fun after market parts for it? We go out alot, mostly for dirt bikes. I also have a 69 Baja. I think the truck would be fun to get a little dirty! Any places I can see some moded 95 Dakotas?

Thanks in advance!

A casual dirt bike hauler with that kind of miles? Where do you have to go to be able to drive your dirt bike?

They're good trucks and they have good motors. Pretty good anyway. Is your check engine light on?

A casual dirt bike hauler with that kind of miles? Where do you have to go to be able to drive your dirt bike?

They're good trucks and they have good motors. Pretty good anyway. Is your check engine light on?


Hes got it from his brother who put most of the miles on it. Now the check engine light isn't on, and im very religious about all the fluid changes. I do the 4 wheel drive ever 6 months, and everything else ever 3k. It still runs really strong, but I just seem to have a bad feeling on an original engine with that many miles.

I wouldn't worry too much about those 3.9 motors, strong little bugger that takes a beating!!

How's the tranny and clutch holding up??

I wouldn't worry too much about those 3.9 motors, strong little bugger that takes a beating!!

How's the tranny and clutch holding up??


Tranny seems fine, it still spins the rear tires in 1 and 2nd. Not that I romp on it often. The one thing that is worrying me is a popping when I make hard turns (like a U turn). Sounds like its in the steering column. The 4 wheel drive works great (used it over the winter) just sounds a bit noisy shifting out of 4 low, but I had an old jeep that sounded like that too, and the 4wd never went out on it.

Anything else I should look at? Thanks for the advice so far, its making me more aware of whats going on with my dak!

I still can't belive it runs as well as it does with the miles. Up around 75 and 80 it feels like the thing is going to vibrate apart so I dont go that fast often! LOL! I love this truck, it has been very dependable and faithful so far. I hope to keep going with it, but want to be sure all my worries are settled. Thanks again! Looking forward to replies!

The popping could be the ball joints or the bushings on the suspension.

Other than that, just enjoy the truck!!!