Market Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Distinctive Features Dakota:
Largest V8 option in its class (4.7L Magnum), robust payload and towing capacity for its size.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive DIY and professional repair capabilities, saving significant labor costs.
Engine:
Yes (including diagnostics, overhaul, component testing)
Transmission:
Yes (manual and automatic, repair and diagnosis)
Drivetrain:
Yes (4WD system, differentials, axles)
Suspension:
Yes (front and rear suspension, steering components)
Brakes:
Yes (ABS, hydraulic system, disc and drum)
Electrical:
Yes (wiring diagrams, lighting, starting, charging, accessories)
HVAC:
Yes (climate control system, diagnosis and repair)
Body:
Yes (interior and exterior trim, body panels, glass)
Chassis:
Yes (frame, mounting points, body-to-frame)
Fuel System:
Yes (fuel pump, injectors, lines, emissions control)
Cooling System:
Yes (radiator, thermostat, fan, coolant)
Exhaust System:
Yes (muffler, catalytic converter, pipes)
ECM/PCM:
Yes (Powertrain Control Module, diagnostics and programming)
Maintenance:
Yes (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (diagnostic trees, symptom-based diagnosis)
Repair:
Yes (component removal, installation, and adjustment)
Overhaul:
Yes (engine and transmission rebuild procedures)
Recalibration:
Yes (throttle body, sensors)
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes (comprehensive and system-specific)
Torque Specifications:
Yes (all critical fasteners)
Alignment Procedures:
Yes (front and rear suspension alignment specifications)
Special Tools:
Yes (identification and usage of required special tools)
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced (OBD-II diagnostics, component testing, wiring analysis)
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams
Base Engine 2000-2004:
2.5L Magnum (AMC 150)
2.5L Horsepower:
120-134 hp (depending on year and variant)
2.5L Torque:
145-155 lb-ft (depending on year and variant)
Optional Engine 2000-2004:
3.9L Magnum V6 (e.g., for 2001-2004 models)
3.9L Horsepower:
175-180 hp (depending on year and variant)
3.9L Torque:
230-235 lb-ft (depending on year and variant)
Flagship Engine 2000-2004:
4.7L Magnum V8 (e.g., for 2002-2004 models)
4.7L Horsepower:
230-235 hp (depending on year and variant)
4.7L Torque:
295-300 lb-ft (depending on year and variant)
Engine Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V6 and V8, Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) inline-4
Engine Management:
Chrysler SBEC/NGC engine control modules
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission Common:
5-speed Manual (NV3500 for V6, NV1500 for 4-cyl)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (42RE for V6, 45RFE for 4.7L V8)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system available (manual or electronic shift on the fly for later models)
Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual for each transmission type and rear axle ratio
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
111.7 inches (2837 mm)
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
124.7 inches (3167 mm)
Bed Length Short:
6.3 feet (1.9 m)
Bed Length Long:
8.0 feet (2.4 m) (less common for this generation)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3,600 - 4,500 lbs (1630 - 2040 kg), varies by configuration
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 6,900 lbs (3,130 kg) with V8 and proper towing package
Payload Capacity Max:
Up to 1,600 lbs (726 kg), varies by configuration
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good (for models with side airbags; varies by year/configuration)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good (for models with side airbags; varies by year/configuration)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some base trims
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims, especially with V8
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard; optional side airbags on some later models
Seatbelts:
Three-point height-adjustable front seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (50,000 - 100,000 km) or 2-5 years
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (50,000 - 100,000 km) for automatic transmissions; check manual for manual transmission service
Engine Oil 2.5L:
API SG/SH/SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual)
Engine Oil 3.9L 4.7L:
API SL, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and type)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specifications (e.g., NV3500 often uses synthetic gear oil)
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Issue Ignition Coils:
Coil-on-plug systems, particularly on V8 engines, can experience premature failure leading to misfires.
Common Issue Water Pump:
Water pumps can develop leaks over time, especially the 4.7L V8.
Common Issue Transmission Governors:
Automatic transmission (42RE/45RFE) governor pressure solenoids can fail, causing shifting problems.
Common Issue Oxidation On Wiring:
Some owners report corrosion on electrical connectors, especially in humid climates, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Common Issue Clutch Wear:
Manual transmissions can experience clutch wear, with replacement intervals dependent on driving habits.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and powerful trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Second Gen Dakota Launch:
Introduced for the 1997 model year, the second generation (AN) was a significant redesign with a more modern appearance and increased capability.
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Received a facelift for the 2000 model year, including updated styling, interior refinements, and introduction of the 4.7L Magnum V8 engine for 2002.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA
