Is the 1987 Dodge Dakota reliable?

It can be reliable for its age when maintained, especially with consistent cooling-system care, regular fluid changes, and timely suspension/steering repairs.

What are the most common 1987 Dodge Dakota problems?

Common issues include overheating from aging cooling components, automatic transmission shift/slip concerns, front suspension and steering wear, and intermittent electrical problems due to old grounds and connectors.

Are maintenance costs high for a 1987 Dodge Dakota?

Costs are usually moderate because the truck is simple to service, but budget for catch-up work on cooling, front-end parts, seals/leaks, and any deferred transmission maintenance.

What are the best years to buy for a first-generation Dodge Dakota?

Condition matters most, but many buyers prefer later first-gen trucks with documented maintenance and fewer signs of rust or neglect; always prioritize service records and a clean structural inspection over model-year differences.

What should I check before buying a 1987 Dodge Dakota?

Check for overheating, transmission behavior on a long test drive, front-end looseness or uneven tire wear, rust on the frame and body mounts, and electrical consistency (charging voltage, lights, gauges, and grounds). For deeper details, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, engine and drivetrain information, fluid capacities, and maintenance schedules to keep a 1987 Dodge Dakota running strong.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

1987 Dodge Dakota Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A charmingly simple workhorse that demands proactive rust mitigation and a watchful eye on its aging wiring.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 1987 Dodge Dakota

Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the vehicle speed control:linkages.
Scores 2 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1988 Dodge Dakota earns a 70.
The system most likely to surface first: body & frame corrosion (critical severity).

Should You Buy the 1987 Dodge Dakota?

For the enthusiast or casual user seeking a genuinely classic and serviceable compact pickup, the 1987 Dodge Dakota represents a solid, no-nonsense choice, provided you prioritize a rust-free example and are prepared for typical age-related maintenance. Its fundamental simplicity makes it repairable, but ignoring its vulnerabilities will lead to a costly and frustrating ownership experience.

Biggest Strengths

Simple, robust mechanicals that are easy to repair
Strong, full-frame construction for durability
Abundant and affordable replacement parts

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 1987 Dodge Dakota. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Body & Frame Corrosioncritical

Electrical Systemmajor

Fuel Delivery Systemmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES

SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM CABLES MAY PARTIALLY DISENGAGE AND BIND AT THE CARBURETOR THROTTLE LEVER ATTACHMENT.

PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL:MECHANICAL:LINKAGE AND CABLE

THESE TRUCKS WERE EQUIPPED WITH REAR PARK BRAKE CABLES WHICH CAUSED LIMITED REAR BRAKE SHOE TRAVEL RESULTING IN THE PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM NOT HOLDING THE VEHICLE IN THE REVERSE DIRECTION WHEN PARKED ON A 20% GRADE, AS REQUIRED BY FMVSS 105. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THE TRUCK IS PARKED ON AN INCLINE AND THE PARKING BRAKE SET, IT MAY ROLL BACK CAUSING DAMAGE OR AN ACCIDENT.

What breaks on the 1987 Dodge Dakota?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Dodge Dakota by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Dodge Dakota. Click any year for its full report.

All Dodge Dakota years ranked →Dodge Dakota years to avoid →Dodge Dakota common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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