Segment:
Compact to mid-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, truck owners seeking self-sufficiency
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Vehicle Strength:
Robust chassis, powerful V8 option, comfortable ride for a truck
Manual Value:
Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing the 2003 Dodge Dakota, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.
Engine Coverage:
All gasoline engines
Transmission Coverage:
All automatic and manual transmissions
Chassis Systems:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Exhaust
Electrical Systems:
Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control, Body Control Modules, Lighting, Audio
Body And Trim:
Interior and Exterior Components, Doors, Seats, Glass
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, DTC Explanations, Component Testing
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions, powertrain control module (PCM)
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (42RE, 45RFE), manual transmission (NV3500), transfer case (2WD/4WD), drive shafts, axles
Suspension And Steering:
Front independent suspension, rear solid axle, leaf springs, power steering system, steering column
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, ABS system, hydraulic lines, parking brake
Electrical Body:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), horn, wipers, power accessories (windows, locks), instrument cluster, climate control
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, anti-theft system
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt and hose replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement (spark plugs, ignition coils, injectors, sensors), transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension and steering part replacement, exhaust system repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) identification and resolution, intermittent electrical issues, performance problems
Diagnostics:
Component testing procedures, diagnostic tool usage (OBD-II), system-specific diagnostics
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls and advanced diagnostics.
Standard:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500) for 4-cyl and V6 models
Optional 1:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE) for V6 models
Optional 2:
4-Speed Automatic (45RFE) for V8 models
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system (NV235 for V6, NV244 for V8)
Auto Trans Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)
Manual Trans Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil
NHTSA Front Driver Side:
Four Stars (2003 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side:
Four Stars (2003 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard on all models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette player, optional premium sound system
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level
OBD Ii Port:
Standard under-dash OBD-II diagnostic port
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., platinum/iridium recommended for longer life).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, refer to manual for manual transmission intervals.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified) for most engines, consult manual for exact specification and capacity.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Orange Coolant, or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4
Common Problem 1:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, heater core, water pump)
Common Problem 2:
Transmission issues, particularly with early 45RFE models (solenoid pack failure)
Common Problem 3:
Cracked exhaust manifolds on V8 engines
Common Problem 4:
Ball joint wear and failure on front suspension
Timing Chain:
3.9L V6 and 4.7L V8 use timing chains, which are generally durable but can require inspection/replacement at high mileage.
Dodge Truck History:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, establishing a reputation for durability.
Generation:
Second Generation (1998-2004)
Key Updates 2003:
Minor styling updates, potential new option packages, enhanced interior features.
Assembly Location:
Saltillo, Mexico
