Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, truck owners seeking detailed repair info
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Vehicle Appeal:
Bold styling, available V8 engine, robust chassis, rear-wheel or four-wheel drive
Manual Value Proposition:
Complete factory documentation for accurate and efficient repairs, saving time and money
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, inspection, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel, emissions
Engine Performance:
Diagnosis and repair of drivability issues, tuning
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair for NV3500 manual transmission
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair for 45RFE/545RFE automatic transmission
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axles, driveshafts, differentials, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, components, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, linkages
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS, hydraulic components, parking brake
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, ignition system, battery, fuses, relays
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, signal lamps
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, components, recharge
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, frame inspection
Chassis:
Frame and underbody components
Restraints:
Airbag system, seat belts
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing major and minor components
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component diagnosis
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for automatic and manual transmissions
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing/replacement, bleeding
Suspension Alignment:
Adjustment procedures and specifications for wheel alignment
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling, component replacement, leak testing
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, glass replacement guidance
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Coverage Level:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete vehicle overhaul and diagnostics
Diagnostic Charts:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues
Wiring Diagrams:
High-quality, section-specific electrical wiring diagrams
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs
Engine Options:
2.4L 4-Cylinder, 3.7L V6, 4.7L V8
Engine Code 2 4L:
EDK (2.4L PowerTech)
Engine Code 3 7L:
KJ (3.7L Magnum V6)
Engine Code 4 7L:
PZ3 (4.7L Magnum V8)
2 4L Horsepower:
142 hp @ 5200 rpm
2 4L Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
3 7L Horsepower:
210 hp @ 5200 rpm
3 7L Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
4 7L Horsepower:
230 hp @ 4700 rpm (2005-2006), 235 hp @ 4700 rpm (2007)
4 7L Torque:
290 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (2005-2006), 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (2007)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, E85 compatible for 4.7L V8 in 2007
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (NV3500) for 4-cylinder and V6 models
Optional Transmission Type V6:
4-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE) for V6 models
Optional Transmission Type V8:
5-speed automatic (545RFE) for V8 models
Transmission Fluid Spec 45Rfe 545Rfe:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Spec Nv3500:
MS-9224 manual transmission fluid or equivalent API GL-4
NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:
Good (2005-2007 models, varies by test)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Rating:
Good (2005-2007 models, varies by test)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval Conventional:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months with synthetic oil
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long Life Platinum or Iridium)
Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long Life Platinum or Iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions), SAE 10W-30 can be used in warmer climates. Check owner's manual for exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent
Common Issue Ignition Coil Failure:
Ignition coil failure, particularly on V8 models, leading to misfires and rough running.
Common Issue Oil Cooler Leaks:
Leaking oil cooler lines, especially on V8 models, which can cause oil loss.
Common Issue Suspension Components:
Premature wear of ball joints and tie rod ends due to the truck's weight and design.
Common Issue Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear on manual transmission models, especially with heavy use.
Common Issue Radiator Leaks:
Radiator leaks or premature failure can occur, requiring replacement.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the original Dodge Power Wagon.
Second Generation Introduction:
The second generation of the Dodge Dakota was introduced for the 2005 model year, featuring a significant redesign and new platform.
Key Changes 2005:
All-new exterior styling, updated interior, available 4.7L V8 with improved power, new 3.7L V6 engine, introduction of the longer wheelbase.
Updates 2007:
Minor updates including increased horsepower for the 4.7L V8 and the introduction of E85 compatibility for that engine, and an updated infotainment system (Infinity Audio) on some trims.
Manufacturing Location:
Dodge Dakota (2nd Gen) was primarily manufactured at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan.