Problem Reports
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1998 Dodge Durango
Front/Rear Differential Pinion Seal Leaks Are Common
Front and rear differential pinion seal leaks are common. A leaking pinion seal will require replacement.
AC Not Cold Due to Leak From Condenser
Poor AC performance or no cold air blowing from vents is commonly caused by a refrigerant leak from the AC condenser. Road debris like rocks or pebbles can damage the condenser tubes.
Various Engine Oil Leaks
External oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, intake manifold gaskets (front or rear), and the rear crankshaft seal area are common. The rear main seal is an unlikely source. Normally, leaks in this area are from the bearing cap mating surfaces as well as the sealing surface between the oil pan and bearing cap.
Engine oil leaks at distributor may be misdiagnosed
Engine oil leaks at the distributor can be misdiagnosed as leaks from the intake manifold seal, oil pan gasket, or rear crankshaft (rear main) seal. A revised distributor is available if oil is found inside the distributor.
Increased Oil Consumption Due to Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
On 3.9L V6 and 5.9L V8 engines, the intake manifold gasket may leak and cause increased oil consumption and a spark knock during acceleration; the gasket should be replaced.
Carbon buildup at top of piston may cause noise
One the 3.9L V6 and 5.9L V8 the carbon buildup on the top of the piston is common. As the buildup increases with mileage and over time, symptoms may vary from light ticking, to ticking/hammering, to hammering/knocking noises. Fuel injector cleaner often solves the problem.
Repair Kit Available if Front Brake Caliper Bolt Threads Strip
If the threads strip where the front brake caliper mounts to the steering knuckle, a steering knuckle repair kit is available. A new steering knuckle is not normally necessary.
Rerouting Ignition Coil/Spark Plug Wires Can Solve Misfire/Surge Problems
Rerouting the ignition coil wire and spark plug wires can help solve a misfire and/or surge problem that occurs at approximately 45 mph. A service bulletin was published that outlines the specifics of the repair. It states the rerouting procedure should be performed before other repairs are done for misfires, surging or spark knock.
Power door lock switch can short-circuit
The power door lock switch can short-circuit internally causing a battery drain and/or the key operated accessories to function even though the key is off. If the power door lock switch is diagnosed to be the cause, replacement of the switch should fix the concern.