Segment:
Mid-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon
Differentiating Factor:
V8 engine option in a mid-size platform, unique styling, robust towing capacity for its class.
Value Proposition:
Provides exact factory procedures, saving time and money compared to trial-and-error or generic guides.
Full Model Range:
All models and configurations
Repair Scope:
A-Z, comprehensive service and repair
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2500+ (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF/eBook) or Printed Book
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel and emissions, cooling, lubrication, starting and charging, manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case (4WD), driveline, axle assemblies.
Chassis:
Brakes (ABS, hydraulic, parking), steering, suspension (front and rear), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, instrument cluster, lighting, power accessories, comfort and convenience, infotainment, powertrain control module (PCM), chassis control modules, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Body And Frame:
Frame and body construction, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, liftgate/tailgate, HVAC system, climate control.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, testing procedures for all major systems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Component removal, installation, repair, and overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, etc.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, equivalent to dealership technician resources.
Digital Format:
Searchable PDF with hyperlinked sections and diagrams
Print Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, clear text, professional layout (for printed versions)
Binding Type:
Durable perfect binding or spiral bound (for printed versions)
Paper Type:
Heavy-duty paper stock resistant to shop oil and grease (for printed versions)
3.7L V6 Magnum:
Displacement: 3.7L (226 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.66 x 3.52 in, Compression Ratio: 9.7:1, Horsepower: 210-215 hp @ 5200-5600 rpm, Torque: 235-245 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm
4.7L V8 Magnum:
Displacement: 4.7L (287 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.66 x 3.33 in, Compression Ratio: 9.0:1, Horsepower: 230-235 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm, Torque: 295-300 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm
5.7L V8 Hemi:
Displacement: 5.7L (345 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 3.92 x 3.58 in, Compression Ratio: 9.6:1, Horsepower: 345 hp @ 5000-5400 rpm, Torque: 375-380 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm
Engine Variations:
3.7L V6, 4.7L V8, 5.7L HEMI V8
Injection Type:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (regular 87 octane recommended, higher for HEMI)
Engine Control Module:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with diagnostic capabilities
Standard Transmission:
6-speed manual (for 3.7L V6 and some 4.7L V8 models)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (42RLE for 3.7L V6), 5-speed automatic (5-45RFE for 4.7L V8), 5-speed automatic (NAG1/W5A580 for 5.7L HEMI)
Transfer Case:
2WD or 4WD with electronic or manual shift transfer case options
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Typically ATF+4 (Mopar Part No. 05013457AA or equivalent) for 42RLE and 5-45RFE. Check manual for NAG1 specific fluid.
Wheelbase:
Standard: 120.0 inches (3048 mm), Long: 131.3 inches (3335 mm)
Overall Length:
Standard Bed: 198.7 inches (5047 mm), Long Bed: 210.0 inches (5334 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.2 inches (1834 mm) excluding mirrors
Height:
Approx. 67.2 inches (1707 mm)
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed: 72.2 inches (1834 mm), Long Bed: 81.3 inches (2065 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3900 - 4500 lbs (1769 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration
Max Payload:
Up to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) depending on configuration
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,500 lbs (2948 kg) with appropriate towing package and engine
Bolt Pattern:
5x4.5 (5x114.3 mm)
Wheel Sizes:
16-inch, 17-inch, 18-inch, 20-inch alloy or steel wheels
Tire Sizes:
Common sizes include P245/70R16, P265/65R17, P265/60R18. Refer to manual for specific fitments.
NHTSA Crash Test Front Driver:
4/5 stars (for models tested)
NHTSA Crash Test Front Passenger:
4/5 stars (for models tested)
IIHS Front Offset Test:
Acceptable/Good (varies by year and testing methodology)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, rear seat belts.
Audio Systems:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio integration, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Infinity).
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system
Connectivity:
Uconnect voice command system (optional on later models), Bluetooth connectivity (optional).
Backup Camera:
Optional rearview camera system
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist sensors
Mds:
Multi-Displacement System on 5.7L HEMI engines for improved fuel economy by deactivating cylinders under light load.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, or as indicated by the Oil Change Indicator System.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
3.7L/4.7L V8: Typically 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum plugs. 5.7L HEMI: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with specific HEMI spark plugs.
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), change fluid and filter every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific intervals.
Engine Oil 3.7L 4.7L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher. Capacity: 6 US quarts (5.7 L) with filter.
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher (Chrysler MS-6395 specification). Capacity: 7 US quarts (6.6 L) with filter.
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Orange Coolant or equivalent (long-life).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler MS-5937 or equivalent (automatic transmission fluid type)
Common Issues V8 Hemis:
Lifter tick (valve train noise), piston slap (especially on early 5.7L models), MDS (Multi-Displacement System) issues, intake manifold leaks.
Common Issues All Engines:
Catalytic converter failure, EGR valve issues, cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), wheel bearing noise.
Common Issues Transmission:
42RLE and 5-45RFE transmission solenoid issues, torque converter shudder.
Common Issues Electrical:
Instrument cluster failures, body control module (BCM) issues, window motor failures.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Group LLC (formerly DaimlerChrysler)
Generation:
This manual covers the third generation of the Dodge Dakota (DS/X platform).
Introduction Year:
Third generation introduced for the 2005 model year.
Key Updates During Generation:
Introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, updated styling, improved interior, addition of longer wheelbase option.
Production Locations:
Mack Avenue Truck Plant, Detroit, Michigan; Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant, Saltillo, Mexico
Production Years:
2005-2011
Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:
Nominee/Contender in relevant years for Truck of the Year awards.
Kbb Consumer Ratings:
Generally positive consumer ratings for capability and powertrain options, with typical mid-size truck complaints regarding fuel economy and interior refinement.
Emissions Standards:
Meets federal emissions standards for its production years; specific certifications (e.g., CARB) may vary by state and are detailed in the manual.
