kindof like reading food reviews on restaurants online. Only crazy people take time to post that crap, and they're usually looking for something to complain about.

I had a 96, 98, 99 and 2004 all new. The intake issue in the 98 could not be fixed and I was given a HUGE trade assistance by SE Dodge for the 99. There were the normal recalls on them all. BUT, I did have to put front axle seals in the 96 in less than a year. I was taking mezicans & trees through some tough stuff for about a month and they started leaking. Covered under warranty. I liked the 2004 the best. I guess because it had two full doors. If I had the funds to slap down for a brand new truck, I would strongly consider a Dodge over a Ford.

it seems like most people that own them are pretty happy with them

Same goes for folks who own most anything. No one wants to admit they own something sub standard. I've also realized lots of people think it's normal to have their vehicle in the shop a time or two every year for repairs. Any vehicle I've ever owned that had any issue outside of normal maintenance got gone quick. I drive Toyota vehicles and expect nothing but routine maintenance and, other than one I wrecked and one I bought with known minor issues, I've never spent a penny on repairs in over 700k miles of driving them. Now that the new Toyota trucks and SUV's are having issues I have no idea what I'll buy when I need another one in a few years.