🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2005

Platform Code:

NS

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact to Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, fleet maintenance

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon

Unique Selling Points:

Available V8 engine in its class, robust build quality, comfortable interior for its segment

Manual Utility:

Provides the essential knowledge for maintaining and repairing the 2005 Dodge Dakota, crucial for owners seeking to perform their own work or understand mechanic's reports.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Options Covered:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 4.7L High Output Magnum V8

Transmission Options Covered:

42RLE (4-speed automatic), NV3500 (5-speed manual), NV4500 (5-speed manual)

Drivetrain Options Covered:

2WD (Rear Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four Wheel Drive)

Body Styles Covered:

Club Cab (Extended Cab), Quad Cab (Crew Cab)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, emissions control

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (42RLE) overhaul and diagnosis, manual transmission (NV3500, NV4500) overhaul and diagnosis, transfer case operation and repair, driveline components (driveshaft, U-joints, axles)

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc, drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic system, parking brake

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM)

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, bumpers, sheet metal repair

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including common faults and their resolutions

Repair Replacement:

Detailed instructions for component removal, repair, and installation for all major vehicle systems

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick access to specific information

Graphic Quality:

High-quality, clear diagrams, schematics, and illustrations

Resolution:

High-resolution for clarity on all technical drawings

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.7 L (226 cu in)

Engine 1 Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine 1 Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)

Engine 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 1 Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.7 L (285 cu in)

Engine 2 Configuration:

SOHC V8 (Magnum)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2 Torque:

305 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2 Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 3 Displacement:

4.7 L (285 cu in) High Output

Engine 3 Configuration:

SOHC V8 (Magnum) High Output

Engine 3 Horsepower:

260 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 3 Torque:

325 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)

Engine Oil Type V6:

SAE 5W-30

Engine Oil Type V8:

SAE 5W-30

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity V8:

6.0 US quarts (5.7 L) with filter

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

NV3500 5-Speed Manual

Optional Transmission Type:

42RLE 4-Speed Automatic

Optional Transmission Type 2:

NV4500 5-Speed Manual (Heavy Duty Applications)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 75W-90)

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac (Part-time 4WD), Selec-Trac (Full-time 4WD)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Club Cab:

124.0 inches (3150 mm)

Wheelbase Quad Cab:

131.3 inches (3335 mm)

Bed Length Short:

6.25 feet (75 inches)

Bed Length Long:

8.0 feet (96 inches)

Curb Weight Approx:

4,000 - 4,600 lbs (1814 - 2087 kg)

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to 7,050 lbs (3198 kg) with proper equipment and configuration

Payload Capacity Max:

Up to 1,900 lbs (862 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (for models tested)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (for models tested)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Acceptable (for models tested)

ABS:

Standard (4-wheel ABS on most models)

Traction Control:

Optional on some models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (standard)

Seatbelts:

Height-adjustable front shoulder belts, pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base AM/FM stereo, optional CD player, optional premium audio systems with subwoofer.

Navigation:

Not available from factory.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Parking Sensors:

Not available.

Aux Input:

Not typically standard; some aftermarket integrations may exist.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specifics).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 3-4 years. Filter replacement recommended.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life plugs)

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life plugs)

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 12.5 US quarts (11.8 L) for V6, 13.5 US quarts (12.8 L) for V8

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Dashboard cracking (especially on models with the integrated airbag panel), oil filter housing leaks (4.7L V8), occasional transmission issues (particularly with earlier 42RLE units), power window motor failures, exhaust manifold leaks (4.7L V8)

Maintenance Tips:

Regularly inspect and replace the cabin air filter, check for coolant leaks around the water pump and housing, address dashboard cracking if it occurs, and use quality fluids.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the early 1930s.

Second Generation:

The 2005 model year represents the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, which debuted for the 2000 model year and received a significant refresh for 2005, including updated styling, a new V8 engine option, and improved interior.

Manufacturing Plant:

Saltillo, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While the 2005 Dakota itself may not have received major 'Truck of the Year' awards, it was generally well-received for its V8 power option and unique positioning in the market.