Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, truck enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Frontier
Selling Points:
Robust platform, available V8 engine option (R/T), comfortable ride for a truck
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners with detailed knowledge for efficient maintenance and repair, reducing labor costs.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, tuning
Engine Electrical:
Ignition, fuel injection, sensors, ECM diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
NV3500, NV2500, NV2700 repair and overhaul
Transmission Automatic:
42RE, 45RFE repair and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axles, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front (short-long arm), Rear (leaf spring), shocks, springs, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion (if applicable)
Brakes:
Front discs, rear drums, ABS system diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank, evaporative emissions
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fans
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, blower motor, climate controls
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers
Chassis Body Electrical:
Body control module (BCM), power windows, locks, mirrors
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plugs
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all systems
Rebuild:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, pressures, voltages
Special Tools:
Required special tools and their applications
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced diagnostics
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
75,000 miles (2.5L I4), 100,000 miles (4.7L V8)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
5 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:
5.5 Quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter
Engine Oil Type 2.5L:
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Type 4.7L:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 12-14 Quarts (depending on engine)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, brake components
Potential Engine Issue:
Lifter tick on the 4.7L V8 (often oil-related or can be wear)
Potential Transmission Issue:
Slipping or hard shifts in automatic transmissions (ATF+4 is critical)
Body Corrosion:
Rear wheel wells and rocker panels can be prone to rust in certain climates.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks.
Generation 2:
2001 marks the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, introduced in 1997.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
The 2001 model received a significant styling refresh.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan
Model Production Run:
1997-2004 (Second Generation)
