Skip to content

NHTSA Recall 04V596000: Suspension: upper ball joint

DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 592,707 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Dodge Dakota.

592,707
vehicles potentially affected
2
models affected
2004
owners notified (December 21)
NHTSA campaign04V596000
Manufacturer campaignD47
ComponentSUSPENSION › FRONT › CONTROL ARM › UPPER BALL JOINT
Report receivedDecember 21, 2004
Owner notificationDecember 21, 2004
Initiated byNHTSA Office of Defects Investigation

Defect

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.

Safety risk

Excessive wear in the upper ball joint may allow it to separate, which could result in loss of control of the vehicle.

Remedy

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.

Notes

This action is deemed a safety improvement campaign and is not being conducted under the safety act.

Vehicles covered by recall 04V596000

Make and modelModel years
Dodge Dakota2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Dodge Durango2000, 2001, 2002, 2003

Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.