In general, when does a manufacturer consider parts to be obsolete? I thought it was about 10 years. I need a steering knuckle for a 2000 2WD Dakota and the dealership says it is NLA. The 2000 to 2002 are the same generation as far as I know.

 

Never really verified but I thought auto makers are required to have parts available for a 10 year period. If it is the same part for the 2000 and 2002 MY's then order it for the 2002 but you may be taking a chance if it is not the same.

 

have you tried the aftermarket?

 

NAPA, Crow Burlingame and O'Rielly's said it was OEM only. Any other suggestions?

 

Wouldn't the Durango be the same?

 

I would look at the local salvage yards or even e-bay.

 

Spoke to a local parts dealer for you while picking up some PSP.

He said part of the problem is Dodge has a blank area on parts due to the change of hands around that time. He also suggested trying a different dealer, says that was used on too many platforms to be NLA.

 

I did find a steering knuckle at a salvage yard. So, it's fixed this time. Local dealer and Mopar Parts America both told me it was NLA. Maybe it's just a bad/weak design and the available stock was depleted faster than expected. Of course, somethings gotta give when you have the steering wheel turned all the way to the left and someone smacks head on into the driverside wheel.