* Door Locks After Driving: This is the most common type of automatic locking. The doors lock automatically after the vehicle reaches a certain speed. There's no single button or setting to universally disable this. Some Dakotas of this era might allow disabling this through the BCM (Body Control Module) using a scan tool, but this requires professional diagnostic equipment and expertise. It's unlikely there's a user-adjustable option.
* Remote Keyless Entry (RKE): Your remote might have a feature where locking the doors with the remote automatically locks all the doors. This behavior is inherent to the RKE system and can't be easily changed. You can just manually unlock the doors if this is an issue.
* Key in Ignition: Some vehicles will automatically lock the doors when the key is inserted in the ignition. This is also a standard feature and difficult to change unless working with advanced automotive electronics.
In short, there's no simple "off" switch. Your best bet is to:
* Manually unlock the doors: After driving, simply manually unlock the doors using the key or inside door handle.
* Avoid using the automatic locking feature on your remote: Just manually lock the doors to prevent automatic locking behavior.
If you're determined to disable the automatic locking after a certain speed, you'll need to consult a mechanic or automotive electrician. They'd be able to use diagnostic tools to potentially reprogram the Body Control Module (BCM), though this is not guaranteed to be possible on your specific year and model of Dakota.
