How many miles per gallon does a 1997 Dodge Dakota get?
In 1997, the Dodge Dakota’s fuel economy depends on the engine and drivetrain. Roughly, the smaller four-cylinder could deliver the best highway efficiency, while V6 and especially V8 options tended to be lower, with 4WD configurations usually showing lower mileage than 2WD. The figures below reflect approximate EPA-era estimates by configuration.
Engine options and MPG by configuration
The following figures reflect approximate EPA estimates from the period, broken down by engine and whether the truck was 2-wheel drive (2WD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD).
2.5L inline-4
2WD: about 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.
4WD: about 21 mpg city / 25 mpg highway.
3.9L V6
2WD: about 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway.
4WD: about 16 mpg city / 22–23 mpg highway.
5.2L V8
2WD: about 15 mpg city / 21–22 mpg highway.
4WD: about 13–14 mpg city / 18–20 mpg highway.
These figures are estimates from the era and can vary based on vehicle condition, maintenance, payload, and driving style. For a VIN-specific estimate, refer to original window stickers or EPA data from the period.
Real-world factors that affect mpg
Actual mileage in daily use often diverges from EPA estimates due to several practical factors. The list below highlights common influences that can push mpg higher or lower.
- Vehicle condition and maintenance (spark plugs, oxygen sensors, air filter, exhaust leaks, etc.).
- Payload, towing load, and overall vehicle weight.
- Tire type, size, and inflation pressure.
- Driving style, including acceleration habits and average speeds.
- Terrain and elevation, such as hilly or mountainous routes.
- Climate control usage (air conditioning in hot weather or heating in cold weather).
- Transmission type and condition (manual vs. automatic, gear ratio, transmission wear).
In practice, owners report mpg that may be a few miles per gallon above or below the EPA figures, depending on these factors.
Summary
The 1997 Dodge Dakota offered several engine choices with corresponding fuel economy profiles. The 2.5L four-cylinder in 2WD typically delivered the best highway efficiency, while the 3.9L V6 and especially the 5.2L V8 showed lower figures, with 4WD versions generally pulling mpg downward further. Given the age of these trucks, real-world mileage varies widely based on condition, maintenance, load, and driving practices. The numbers provided here reflect historical EPA estimates and serve as a rough guide for what to expect.
What year to stay away from Dodge Dakota?
The Dodge Dakota years to avoid are primarily the 2000, 2002, 2005, and 2006 models due to widespread issues with engines, brakes, and paint. Other problematic years include 1999 and 2004, which experienced specific problems like suspension, engine, and transmission issues.
Specific years and common problems
- 2000: Suffers from engine problems, including oil pressure loss, fluctuating idle, and misfires.
- 2002: Frequently cited for brake issues, particularly brake cylinders locking up.
- 2004: Can experience transmission slipping and electrical sensor malfunctions, such as with the throttle position and crankshaft sensors.
- 2005: Known for brake problems and a high number of recalls (seven times).
- 2006: Has numerous recalls and is associated with engine, transmission, and brake problems.
- 1999: Can have suspension, engine, and brake issues.
Other considerations
- 2007-2011: These later model years are generally recommended for those seeking an automatic transmission, as the transmission quality improved significantly during this period.
- 2009-2011: Some models from this range have a recall for a potential rear axle pinion nut issue.
How many miles per gallon does a 1997 Dodge Dakota Club Cab get?
The 1997 Dodge Dakota Club Cab gets 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.
How many gallons does a 1997 Dodge Dakota hold?
22 gallons
1997 Dodge Dakota Regular Cab Specs, Features & Options
| Bed Length | |
|---|---|
| 3508 pounds | 3381 pounds |
| Fuel Capacity | |
| 22 gallons | 22 gallons |
| Front Head Room |
Is the 1997 Dodge Dakota reliable?
Among the 1462 owners who provided feedback on the 1997 Dodge Dakota Club Cab for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 88% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and styling to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.
