I have a 2002 Dodge Dakota

Great expert explanation! Thank you!

but my truck does not have that kinda key So is it the (PCM) or the (Engine Control Computer ) thats wrong with my truck cuz I would hate to buy one or the other and it not be the case

ok its doing this I have a 2002 Dodge Dakota it will not start every now and then But when it wont start everything works except the gauges and the box around the P R D N 1 2 will not appear please help I even hooked up a code reader and it say their are no codes found?

There is a test of the instrumentation that you can perform that may give you a clue. Turn the ignition off. Press and hold the odometer/trip button while turning igntion to "on" without turning it to the "start" position. Continue to hold the button for 10 seconds...when you will see the odometer window display "CHEC". If there is a problem, a three digit code will appear. Do this and let me know if you have any code. Also - is the issue you are having a "no crank" or a "crank no start" issue?

ok it had 3 different codes 920, 921, 999

Thank you for the codes. Ideally, by the way, you really probably need to see a hands on technician to help you complete your diagnosis, but let me tell you about the codes: 920 - Cluster not receiving vehicle speed message from PCM 921 - Cluster not receiving distance pulse message from PCM 999 - Error discovered - see if there is a failure message. After the 999, press the button again to continue testing the cluster for lighting and gauge function. Both the 920 and 921 ask to check with a scan tool to see if the signal can be read from the PCM that way, and that is how the troubleshooting is continued. Neither of those codes, however, refers to why you are not starting sometimes. You did not mention whether it is a no crank or a crank no start condition you are experiencing. If you have a no crank and maybe even no click from turning the key, you may have an issue with the transmission sensor that shows what gear you are in. Or, you could have a wiring or harness issue related to the transmission that could also include speed signal (an effort to try and correlate the codes you got to your issue...).

its a crank no start condition thats what I have And I just check after 999 like you said and their is not anymore codes

One thing I'm foggy on is how Dodge handles anti-theft keys - if the use them or not. I'm assuming they do. Ford, for example, has some vehicles where the instrument cluster is the processor for the anti theft system. If this was the case with your Dodge, it could be a reason you have a crank no start. I just don't know enough about the Dodge in the end to go that far with you. Perhaps seeking a help at a local Dodge dealership at this point or a well experienced with Dodge facility would be in order. Continued good luck!