Segment:
Mid-size pickup truck
Key Selling Points:
Offered a balance of capability, comfort, and available V8 power. Competed against models like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevrolet Colorado.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon
Design:
Third generation featured a more aggressive and modern design compared to its predecessor. Available in Regular Cab, Extended Cab, and Quad Cab configurations.
Capability:
Offered robust towing and hauling capabilities, particularly with the V8 engine option. Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations.
Covered Model Years:
2005, 2006, 2007
Covered Models:
All Dodge Dakota models
Engine Variants Covered:
2.7L V6, 3.7L V6, 4.7L V8 (and potentially early 5.7L HEMI, confirm in manual).
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual covering multiple years and configurations)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine electrical, transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case (if applicable), driveline, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), wheels and tires.
Body And Electrical:
Body and frame, interior components, exterior trim, HVAC system, electrical system (wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), accessories, diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-up procedures.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, body panel repair, electrical component troubleshooting and repair.
Diagnostics:
Symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical circuit testing, component testing, specialized diagnostic procedures.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Includes detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-to-cause diagnostic trees for common and complex issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting trees.
Diagnostic Tools:
References to On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and recommended diagnostic equipment.
PDF Quality:
High resolution, text-searchable for efficient navigation and information retrieval.
Printable:
Printable pages for on-site workshop use.
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (Digital PDF format)
Engine Options:
2.7L V6 (2.7L Magnum), 3.7L V6 (3.7L Magnum), 4.7L V8 (4.7L Magnum), 5.7L V8 (HEMI - introduced later in the generation, check specific model year for 2005-2007 availability of this engine).
Engine Codes Examples:
ECL (2.7L V6), LDS (3.7L V6), PDM (4.7L V8)
Engine Displacement Examples:
265 cu in (2.7L), 226 cu in (3.7L), 285 cu in (4.7L).
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 190 hp (2.7L V6) to 300+ hp (5.7L V8 HEMI, if equipped).
Torque Range:
Approx. 230 lb-ft (2.7L V6) to 360+ lb-ft (5.7L V8 HEMI, if equipped).
Induction Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic (42RLE), 5-speed manual (NV3500).
Transmission Options:
5-speed automatic (545RFE, typically with V8 engines).
Transfer Case:
Available with Command-Trac NV244 (part-time, manual shift) or Selec-Trac NV244 (full-time, electronic shift) for 4WD models.
Wheelbase Options:
120.0 inches (Regular Cab), 130.9 inches (Extended/Quad Cab)
Bed Length Options:
6.25 ft (75 inches), 8.0 ft (96 inches)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,000 - 5,000 lbs, depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Varies by model and configuration, typically ranging from 5,500 lbs to 6,700 lbs.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models tested, specific ratings should be verified)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for models tested, specific ratings should be verified)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable or Good (depending on specific test and model year, manual will detail specific findings)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Standard front airbags for driver and passenger. Available side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers (check specific configuration).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system.
Audio System Options:
Base AM/FM stereo, optional CD player, Sirius Satellite Radio, premium Boston Acoustics audio system.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available on some higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Trailer Tow Package:
Available, often includes hitch receiver, trailer brake controller wiring, and enhanced cooling.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact recommendations based on engine and oil specifications.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check at 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically every 30,000 miles or as condition dictates.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine: e.g., 3.7L V6 might be 60,000-100,000 miles, 4.7L V8 often around 100,000 miles. Manual will specify exact intervals and plug types (e.g., Champion, NGK).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Certified, check manual for exact viscosity and specification for each engine).
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions), Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) for manual transmissions. Check manual for specific part numbers (e.g., Mopar ATF+4).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant or equivalent HOAT. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific recommendation).
Common Problems Examples:
Transmission solenoid issues (especially in early 42RLE), minor electrical gremlins, potential for rust on older models, U-joint wear, catalytic converter failures.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, from the Power Wagon to later models like the Ram series.
Second To Third Gen:
The third generation represented a significant redesign, adopting the more aggressive styling and wider track that characterized Dodge trucks of the era. It was built on a shared platform with the Mitsubishi Raider.
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Production Period:
2005-2007 model years (part of the third generation)
