The Good
The 2010 Dodge Dakota offered a strong blend of practicality and appeal. Its V8 engine provided ample power for towing and hauling (performance). The design offered a muscular and aggressive look (emotional). While not class-leading, its reliability was decent. It was also generally less expensive than full-size trucks (value).
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2010 Dodge Dakota included fuel economy, which was poor, especially with the V8. Interior materials were often criticized for being low-quality. Reliability, while acceptable, wasn't as stellar as some competitors. Check for rust, especially in areas with road salt.
2010 Dodge Dakota: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.7L V6: 210 hp, 235 lb-ft of torque
- 4.7L V8: 302 hp, 329 lb-ft of torque
- Horsepower:
- V6: 210 hp
- V8: 302 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- V6: 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
- V8: 14 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- V6: 9-10 seconds
- V8: 7-8 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- V6: Up to 5,000 lbs (depending on configuration)
- V8: Up to 7,250 lbs (depending on configuration)
- Trim-Level Features:
- ST: Base model, typically with basic features like air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and cloth seats.
- Big Horn/Lone Star: Added features such as alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, upgraded cloth seats, and more convenience features.
- TRX: Off-road focused, featuring features like skid plates, off-road suspension, and all-terrain tires.
- Laramie: Premium trim with leather seats, premium sound system, dual-zone climate control, and more luxurious appointments.
2010 Dodge Dakota Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2010 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Dakota |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Heavy Truck W |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SALTILLO |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.7 L V-8 |
| Engine Size | 4.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2010 Dodge Dakota Have?
Recalls for the 2010 Dodge Dakota have included issues related to the fuel tank and potential fuel leaks. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to see if any recalls apply.
Long-term reliability concerns often center on the automatic transmission, which can experience slippage or rough shifting as the vehicle ages. The suspension components, such as ball joints and tie rod ends, may also require replacement over time. Routine maintenance, including regular oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial to mitigating these long-term reliability concerns.
How long will the 2010 Dodge Dakota last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard. More advanced driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not available.
Safety features included front airbags and side-curtain airbags. Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) vary depending on the cab configuration. Generally, the Dakota received decent but not outstanding scores. Some models achieved four-star ratings in frontal crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also provided ratings, which are worth consulting for a comprehensive view.
Overall, the Dakota's tech and safety features were adequate for its era but significantly less advanced than modern vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2010 Dodge Dakota Prices and Market Value
2010 Dodge Dakota Cost of Ownership
2010 Dodge Dakota Fuel Efficiency
2010 Dodge Dakota Safety Rating
NHTSA
2010 Dodge Dakota Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2010 Dodge Dakota Compare to Other Truck?
Regarding price, the Dakota was often competitively priced, especially in lower trims. However, considering overall value, the Toyota Tacoma is often a better choice due to its superior reliability and resale value. The Nissan Frontier is a similar alternative, providing a blend of affordability and capability. The Ford Ranger, while also a decent option, lacked the V8 power of the Dakota and was discontinued shortly after. Ultimately, if reliability is a top priority, the Tacoma is preferable; if budget is the primary concern, the Frontier is worth considering.
Ranks #482 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 482 | 2010 Dodge Dakota | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2010 Dodge Dakota a Good Truck?
J Z B op on April 8, 2018
This truck vehicle has good size ,Needs updates!I have like this because of previous Dakota I have owned. My new / used 2011 has a good motor suspension , more updates needed for interior accommodations . Needs help with aerodynamic styling and updated headlights fog lights . Hopefully the new model coming out will be better in suitable I?m sure at a better price than competitive brands .
camping on November 1, 2017
best of them allalways liked the dodge, runs great, hauls a lot, comfortable for the long ride, pulled a small 5th wheel all over the country, no trouble, good on gas, plenty of room for all our stuff & dog
Dmixer on September 26, 2017
I've owned 2 Dakota's. Great trucks!Solid truck with plenty of power and heft. Dependable and always came through no matter what I asked of it.
Truck Fan on September 18, 2017
A truck I would like to own.Very roomy and comfortable for a mid-size pick-up. The v8 gives plenty of power and the 4x4 was quite responsive. Excellent truck.
Camaroman on September 14, 2017
Most reliable for purpose needed for.This truck meet all my needs at the time. Now I have grand kids to take to different School functions and there is not enough room in the truck.
Camaroman on September 14, 2017
Perfect size truckThis truck meet all my needs but a car or suv is better since I have grand kids to take to school events.
GJordan on May 22, 2017
Great all-around ride.Multi-use vehicle: my ride to work every day. Weekend project warrior truck. Very comfortable travel.
Active retiree on October 4, 2013
Good solid truck.Haven't had the truck long enough to comment on reliability. Gas mileage isn't the greatest. It has what I need and doesn't have what I wouldn't use so I'm pretty satisfied.
Trucker on February 1, 2013
Love itGas mileage not a plus, but if I wanted a Prius I would have bought it. Ride is smoother than my Kia Optima was. Interior roomy and comfortable but shifter on the column gets in the way of the climate control and radio. That is the only change I would make. V-6 enough power for me. Exterior very sharp.
TRUCKY on January 9, 2013
So far, so goodThe truck has been everything I expected to be. Nice ride, has plenty of power, and not bad on gas around town.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.