Johnnie Pailthorp
2305 ballahack Rd.
Chesapeake, VA 23322

July 16, 2002

  I just recently purchased a 2002 Dodge Dakota quad-cab V-8 in
Chesapeake, VA.  Two days after I purchased the vehicle my wife and I
took it on a trip to Michigan (about 800 miles).  By the time that I had
arrived in Michigan not one, but both of the fog light lenses had
cracked in many places, I hadn't even had the truck for five days.  There
was no place that a rock or other debris had struck the lenses what so ever.
The fog lights heated up so hot that it cracked the lenses in numerous
places.  When I arrived back in Virginia I contacted my salesmen at
Greenbrier Dodge (Ed Donaher) he informed me that they were not covered
under warranty.  It gets worse, I was also told that the lenses cost
$212.00, not for a pair, but for one.  If these fog light lenses are so
expensive why do they break under normal driving conditions? A low quality
piece of clear plastic about 3 inches across. $212.00?  That's just plain
dishonest!
   Before the first 1000 miles that I drove I accrued $424.00 in maintenance.
I really hope that this is an odd occurrence rather then the norm.  I find 
it hard to believe that I spent over $29,000.00 on a vehicle that is already
starting to fall apart before I have made the first payment.  I would have
thought that Dodge would stand behind their products a little better then that.
   I have gotten an awful lot complements on my Dakota, It really is a good
looking truck.  I make it a point to inform everyone that complements my
Dakota about the defective fog lights and how Dodge does not stand behind
their products.  I simply recommend the Chevy 1500, it's full size, and it
cost about the same, or a little cheaper.
   I think that Dodge should take a look at the quality of their fog light
lenses.  I also feel that Dodge should make this right and send me a set of
replacement fog light lenses.

                                                        Johnnie Pailthorp