🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Years Covered:

2005, 2006, 2007

Platform Code:

Third Generation (2005-2011)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, professional mechanics, fleet maintenance

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier

Dakota Usp:

Larger size for its class, available V8 engines (including HEMI), robust suspension

Manual Advantage:

Provides OEM-level detail for accurate and efficient repairs, saving time and money

Instant Access:

Immediate download for on-demand repair guidance

Comprehensive Coverage:

Covers all major systems and components for the specified model years

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair instructions

Engine Coverage:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8

Transmission Coverage:

45RFE/545RFE 5-Speed Automatic, NV3500 5-Speed Manual, Getrag/New Venture Gear 6-Speed Manual

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, steering, brakes, exhaust, fuel system, driveline

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, body control modules, power accessories, diagnostics

Body Coverage:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, glass, seats, climate control (HVAC)

Special Coverage:

Torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Instant Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission repair, manual transmission repair, clutch service, driveshafts, axles, differentials

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment

Brakes:

Front brakes (disc), rear brakes (disc or drum depending on configuration), parking brake, ABS, hydraulic system

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, fuses, relays, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instruments and gauges, power windows, locks, mirrors, cruise control

Body And Frame:

Body construction, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, body panels, glass replacement, interior trim components, seats, seat belts, airbags

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, and repair

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) information, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) definitions and troubleshooting charts

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine checks and services, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, spark plug replacement

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures for major components, electrical component repair

Troubleshooting Guides:

System-specific troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic steps for common and uncommon issues

Component Testing:

Methods for testing electrical components, sensors, actuators, and mechanical parts

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners and bolts

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and full rebuilds

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using scan tools and specific diagnostic procedures

Factory Procedures:

Covers procedures as outlined by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for offline use

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.7L Magnum V6

Engine 1 Hp:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2:

4.7L Magnum V8

Engine 2 Hp:

230-260 hp @ 4500-5200 rpm (depending on year/tune)

Engine 2 Torque:

300-325 lb-ft @ 3200-3800 rpm (depending on year/tune)

Engine 3:

5.7L HEMI V8

Engine 3 Hp:

345 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Construction:

Iron block, aluminum heads (V6/V8)

Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV) for 3.7L/4.7L, Overhead Valve (OHV) with HEMI cylinder head design for 5.7L

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Pump:

In-tank electric fuel pump

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

NV3500 5-Speed Manual (Standard on some V6 models)

Transmission 2:

Getrag/New Venture Gear 6-Speed Manual (Optional on some V8 models)

Transmission 3:

45RFE/545RFE 5-Speed Automatic (Standard on most V8, optional on V6)

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronically controlled with overdrive

Manual Transmission Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated clutch

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mercon V or equivalent (NV3500), GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (Getrag)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Std:

119.8 inches (3043 mm)

Wheelbase Long:

131.3 inches (3335 mm)

Overall Length Std Cab:

198.7 inches (5047 mm)

Overall Length Ext Cab:

210.2 inches (5339 mm)

Overall Width:

79.3 inches (2014 mm)

Overall Height:

71.3 - 73.2 inches (1811 - 1859 mm)

Bed Length Short:

6.0 ft (approx. 72 inches)

Bed Length Long:

7.0 ft (approx. 84 inches)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,000 - 5,000 lbs (1814 - 2268 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Up to approx. 6,000 - 6,500 lbs (2722 - 2948 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

Good (for 2005 models)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

Good (for 2005 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

Acceptable (for 2005 models)

IIHS Driver Front Impact:

Good (for 2005 models)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags Front:

Standard advanced driver and front-passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Available front seat-mounted side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants, pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional AM/FM/CD player, Sirius Satellite Radio, premium audio options

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Remote Start:

Available remote keyless entry and start system

Power Outlets:

12V auxiliary power outlets

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil and filter change)

Tire Rotation:

Every 7,500 miles

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or per manual recommendation)

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or per manual recommendation)

Coolant Flush:

Every 60,000 miles or 5 years

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 (3.7L V6), SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (4.7L V8), SAE 5W-20 (5.7L HEMI V8) - refer to manual for exact specification and capacity

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (MS-9769)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Common Problem 1:

Radiator leaks or failure (especially lower plastic tanks)

Common Problem 2:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (particularly on V8 engines)

Common Problem 3:

Suspension component wear (ball joints, control arm bushings)

Common Problem 4:

ABS/Brake warning lights due to wheel speed sensor issues

Common Problem 5:

Interior electrical issues (window motors, door lock actuators)

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing trucks and commercial vehicles, known for power and utility.

Dakota Lineage:

The Dakota was introduced as Chrysler's entry into the mid-size pickup segment, offering a blend of full-size truck capability with smaller truck maneuverability.

Third Generation:

The 2005 model year marked a significant redesign for the Dakota, moving to the new 'modern truck' platform shared with the Dodge Durango SUV. It featured a bolder exterior design, improved interior, and the introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine option.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan

Production Years For Generation:

2005-2011

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Year Awards:

Specific awards vary by year and publication, but the third-generation Dakota was generally well-received for its available V8 power and truck capabilities.

Consumer Reports Rating:

Ratings vary by specific model year and configuration; consult historical data for detailed analysis.