Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Demographic:
Consumers seeking a smaller, more maneuverable, and fuel-efficient pickup than full-size options.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Vehicle Attributes:
Available in Regular Cab, Club Cab, and Quad Cab configurations; Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4-wheel drive (4WD) options; Competitive payload and towing capacities for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical information for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the 2003 Dodge Dakota, empowering owners and technicians to perform a wide range of tasks.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Lubrication, Cooling, Ignition, Exhaust, Emission Control
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission (42LE, NV3500, NV1500)
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, Axles, Differential, Transfer Case (if applicable)
Suspension:
Front Suspension (Independent), Rear Suspension (Solid Axle), Steering System
Brakes:
Front and Rear Brakes (Disc/Drum), ABS System, Parking Brake
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Control Modules, Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Antitheft Systems
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Exterior Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Repair:
Component Replacement, Overhaul Procedures, Component Reassembly
Installation:
Component Installation and Adjustment Procedures
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
PDF Features:
Searchable text, bookmarked chapters, printable pages.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams and photographs for clarity.
Physical Binding If Printed:
Not applicable (digital format)
Physical Paper If Printed:
Not applicable (digital format)
Engine Option 1:
2.5L Magnum 4-Cylinder
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
2499 cc (152.5 cu in)
Engine Option 1 Configuration:
Inline-4, SOHC
Engine Option 1 Power:
122 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine Option 1 Torque:
155 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine Option 2:
3.9L Magnum V6
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
3906 cc (238.4 cu in)
Engine Option 2 Configuration:
90-degree V6, OHV
Engine Option 2 Power:
175 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine Option 2 Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine Option 3:
4.7L Magnum V8 (Optional)
Engine Option 3 Displacement:
4701 cc (286.8 cu in)
Engine Option 3 Configuration:
90-degree V8, SOHC
Engine Option 3 Power:
235 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine Option 3 Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Emission Control:
California and Federal Emission Standards supported
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (89 Octane recommended for 4.7L V8 for optimal performance)
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (NV1500 for 4-cyl and some V6 models)
Optional Transmission 1:
4-Speed Automatic (42LE)
Optional Transmission 2:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500 for some V6 models)
Transmission Fluid Spec 42Le:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Spec Nv3500:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent DEXRON-III)
Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Le:
9.0 US quarts (8.5 liters)
Wheelbase Short Bed:
111.7 inches (2837 mm)
Wheelbase Long Bed:
124.2 inches (3155 mm)
Overall Length Short Bed:
197.1 inches (5006 mm)
Overall Length Long Bed:
211.0 inches (5360 mm)
Bed Length Short Bed:
71.8 inches (1824 mm)
Bed Length Long Bed:
98.3 inches (2497 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,500 lbs (1724 - 2041 kg), varies by configuration and engine.
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,600 lbs (2994 kg) with 4.7L V8 and proper towing package.
Payload Capacity Range:
Approx. 1,100 - 1,600 lbs (499 - 726 kg), varies by configuration and engine.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars
ABS:
Standard on most models, 4-wheel disc brakes available on higher trims/models.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all seating positions.
Audio System Options:
AM/FM Stereo with CD player, cassette player, and optional premium sound system.
Display Type:
Basic analog gauges, optional digital odometer/trip computer.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Aux Input:
Not available (analog audio system).
Oil Change Interval:
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 specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Engine Oil Spec 2.5L 3.9L:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified (MS-6395)
Engine Oil Spec 4.7L:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified (MS-6395)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT), HOAT or IAT based on original fill. Refer to manual for specific color/type.
Common Issue 1:
Water pump seal leaks (especially on V8 models).
Common Issue 2:
Radiator hose degradation and leaks.
Common Issue 3:
ABS sensor failures leading to ABS warning lights.
Common Issue 4:
Interior switch and accessory failures (window regulators, power locks).
Common Issue 5:
CV Axle boot tears on 4WD models.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s, often known for their 'Magnum' V8 engines.
Second Gen Updates 2003:
For 2003, the Dakota received a significant refresh including revised styling, a new interior, and the introduction of the more powerful 4.7L Magnum V8 engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA
Production Years For An Platform:
1997-2004
