Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Unique Selling Points:
Strong V8 engine option (4.7L Magnum), distinctive styling, competitive pricing
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)
Bed Lengths:
Short Bed (approx. 6 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft)
Payload Capacity:
Up to ~1,600 lbs (Varies by configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to ~6,750 lbs (Varies by configuration and engine)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems (OBD-II), starting and charging system
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, transmission assembly, shift mechanism, torque specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, hydraulic controls, valve body, torque converter, service and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axles, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case (4WD)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles, alignment specifications
Steering:
Steering column, power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, linkages
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, accessories, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, dashboard
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, grille, fenders, hood, tailgate, bed liner, exterior trim, paint and finish
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant handling
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, troubleshooting charts
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, belt inspection
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all mechanical and electrical components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Depth Of Coverage:
Complete factory-level repair and diagnostic information
Detail Level:
Includes detailed torque specifications, component clearances, and diagnostic parameters
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Numerous exploded views, assembly diagrams, and electrical schematics
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (NV1500 on 2.5L, NV3500 on 3.9L/4.7L)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (42RE on 3.9L, 45RFE on 4.7L)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, Overdrive
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Consult manual for specific units)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) (Consult manual for specific units)
Wheelbase:
111.9 inches (Regular Cab), 124.9 inches (Club Cab)
Overall Length:
Varies by bed length and cab configuration (Approx. 197-219 inches)
Overall Width:
Approx. 71.6 inches
Overall Height:
Approx. 66.7 inches
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,600 - 4,200 lbs (Varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by configuration (e.g., 5,300 lbs for some models)
Bed Volume:
Approx. 45.5 cu ft (Short Bed), 55.5 cu ft (Long Bed)
NHTSA Rollover Rating 2Wd:
3 Stars (2003 Model, consult specific year for exact ratings)
NHTSA Rollover Rating 4Wd:
4 Stars (2003 Model, consult specific year for exact ratings)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some base configurations
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers in Club Cab
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions; refer to manual for specifics)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type; Iridium plugs have longer intervals)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles; Manual: Refer to manual, often longer intervals or inspection based
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L I4:
5 Quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 3.9L V6:
5 Quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L V8:
7 Quarts (6.6 L) with filter
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Consult manual for specific year/engine, typically 5W-30 or 10W-30
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent meeting MS-9769
Common Issue 1:
Cracked cylinder heads on early 4.7L V8 engines (often addressed by updated designs or modifications).
Common Issue 2:
Worn front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) due to load and usage.
Common Issue 3:
Transmission issues, particularly with the 45RFE automatic, can include solenoid pack failures or torque converter problems.
Common Issue 4:
Rust issues on the frame and body panels, especially in areas with road salt.
Common Issue 5:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to non-functional fan speeds.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler)
Generation:
Second Generation Dodge Dakota (1997-2004)
Major Updates During Generation:
Introduction of the 4.7L V8 Magnum engine in 2000, revised interior and exterior styling in 2001.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA
Production Span For Model:
1987-2011 (across generations)
