- 2010
2008 Dodge Dakota
- Used Dodge Dakota
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Dodge Dakota does extremely well in federal government crash tests. However, the Dakota is near the bottom of the class because it lacks some safety equipment. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes and supplemental side air bags are still only optional, and electronic stability control isn't even available.
Government crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration award the 2008 Dodge Dakota top scores of five stars for driver and passenger safety in frontal crash tests, as well as five stars for both front- and rear-seat safety in side crash tests. Both the 2WD and 4WD models get four-star rollover ratings. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards the Dakota a rating of "Acceptable" (the second highest possible) for frontal offset tests. However, in rear crash tests, the models with adjustable-lumbar seats get the worst-possible rating of "Poor." Models without adjustable lumbar for the seats fare better with a rating of "Acceptable."
Accident Avoidance
Every 2008 Dodge Dakota comes outfitted with front disc brakes and rear anti-lock drum brakes. While both the SLT and Laramie are equipped with fog lights, only the Laramie comes with standard automatic headlights.
Available accident avoidance options include four-wheel anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and fog lights (for some trims). The Detroit News comments that they "noticed on wet pavement that the Dakota could use traction control -- even stability control -- to maintain its poise. Unfortunately, neither is available, and that's a no-no, especially with a Michigan winter just around the corner."
Crash Protection
Every 2008 Dodge Dakota comes outfitted with front multistage air bags, which quickly assess the severity of a crash and inflate with varying levels of needed force.
Available crash protection options for all trims include supplemental side air bags that cover two rows. Some trims also offer the option to add side curtain air bags.
