Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Dakota?

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your Dakota firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Why does my Dodge engine sound different?

Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Dodge Dakota engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage a Dodge engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Dodge Dakota engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.

Is it okay to put water in my Dodge Dakota radiator?

It’s not recommended you put water in your Dakota radiator unless it’s an emergency. Under normal circumstances, use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or a pre-mixed coolant. But, if you need to keep driving while out of coolant, using water is better than driving with an empty coolant reservoir.

What can cause the engine in my Dakota to suddenly stop?

Your Dakota car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.

Who fixes Dodge Dakota engines?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers Dodge Dakota engine repair. Schedule an appointment today at one of our thousands of locations nationwide!

Engine Repairs for Your 1997 Dodge Dakota

Learn about

1997 Dodge Dakota Trim Options

Select your Dodge Dakota trim level to learn more about Dodge-recommended engine repair. Even Dodge Dakota parts will get older and change.

L4/2.5L

V6/3.9L

V8/5.2L

1997 Dodge Dakota Repair

Stuff wears out. Even your Dodge Dakota’s engine parts and components will change. When something breaks or fails, we’re ready to help. Select a service or repair below to learn more about what we can do for your 1997 Dodge Dakota.

We’re Trained to Care for Dodge Dakota Engines

Dodge Dakota drivers trust that their Dakota will take them near and far. You may have even been thinking about that when you bought it. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Things can go sideways sometimes. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1997 Dodge service center — quick! That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. Since 1926, we’ve taken care of 500 million+ cars, so you can rest assured knowing your Dodge Dakota engine will be in good hands. Schedule a courtesy inspection at the first sign of engine trouble. Firestone Complete Auto Care is a top choice for professional engine diagnosis, service, and repair at an affordable price.

Illuminated Check Engine Light on 1997 Dodge Dakota

As soon as your Dakota check engine light turns on, it’s time to get an expert’s opinion. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your or emission control system that won’t go away on its own. Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, bad spark plug, a problem with your catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your Dakota to Firestone Complete Auto Care to get computerized diagnostics and we'll determine exactly why your check engine light is on. rattling sounds, oil leaks, or misfiring.

1997 Dakota Engine Services

If your 1997 Dodge Dakota needs engine repair, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care for your 1997 Dakota engine repairs and you can feel good knowing that we only use Dodge-compliant replacement parts such as the cambelt, engine oil seal, sensors, or a different component.

Engine Q&A 1997 Dodge Dakota

Why does the check engine light come on when I start my Dakota? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your Dakota firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Why does my Dodge engine sound different? Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Dodge Dakota engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. A high-pitched whistle could signal an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage a Dodge engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Dodge Dakota engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or accelerating too quickly, too soon. Help sustain your engine’s performance and efficiency by staying miles away from these bad driving practices.
Is it okay to put water in my Dodge Dakota radiator? It’s not recommended you put water in your Dakota radiator unless it’s an emergency. Under normal circumstances, use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or a pre-mixed coolant. But, if you need to keep driving while out of coolant, using water is better than driving with an empty coolant reservoir.
What can cause the engine in my Dakota to suddenly stop? Your Dakota car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.
Who fixes Dodge Dakota engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers Dodge Dakota engine repair. Schedule an appointment today at one of our thousands of locations nationwide!