🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2005-2006

Product Name:

Dodge Dakota Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual 2005 2006

Engine Code 2005 Base:

3.7L Magnum V6 (3700)

Engine Code 2005 Optional:

4.7L Magnum V8 (4700)

Engine Code 2006 Base:

3.7L Magnum V6 (3700)

Engine Code 2006 Optional:

4.7L Magnum V8 (4700)

Transmission Code Standard:

42RLE (4-Speed Automatic)

Transmission Code Optional 2005:

NV3500 (5-Speed Manual) - Less Common

Transmission Code Optional 2006:

NV3500 (5-Speed Manual) - Less Common

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Individuals and businesses requiring a versatile and robust mid-size truck for work and personal use.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier

Manual Value:

This manual provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, mirroring what dealership technicians use, offering unparalleled accuracy and detail for DIY or professional repair.

Vehicle Appeal:

The Dodge Dakota of this era was known for its bolder styling, available V8 engines offering strong performance for its class, and a relatively comfortable ride for a truck.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Trims:

Yes (Covers all trim levels and body styles)

Repair Scope:

All repairs A-Z, from basic maintenance to complete overhauls

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical (3.7L V6, 4.7L V8), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control Systems, Exhaust Systems, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Engine Overhaul Procedures

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic Transmission (42RLE) Repair and Overhaul, Manual Transmission (NV3500) Repair, Driveline, Axles, Transfer Case (4x4 models), Clutch System

Chassis Suspension:

Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Wheel Bearings, Hubs, Brake System (Front and Rear Disc/Drum), ABS

Electrical Body:

Wiring Diagrams, Electrical Components, Lighting, Instruments, HVAC System, Body Repair, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Body Control Modules (BCM)

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing, Symptom-based Diagnostics

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Transmission, Brake, Power Steering), Filter Replacements, Tune-ups

Repair Overhaul:

Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Rebuilds, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Replacement

Installation Replacement:

Component Replacement (alternator, starter, water pump, etc.), Accessory Installation, Suspension Parts, Brake Components

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, component replacement, complex diagnostics, and full rebuild procedures. Designed for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Clarity:

High-resolution, ensuring clear diagrams, schematics, and text.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Digital Paper Simulation:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

3.7L Magnum V6 (SOHC)

Displacement Liters:

3.7

Displacement Cubic Inches:

226

Bore X Stroke Mm:

93.0 x 81.0

Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Horsepower Approx 2005:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque Approx 2005:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower Approx 2006:

215 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque Approx 2006:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Name:

4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC)

Displacement Liters:

4.7

Displacement Cubic Inches:

285

Bore X Stroke Mm:

93.0 x 81.0

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Horsepower Approx 2005:

230 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque Approx 2005:

295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Horsepower Approx 2006:

230 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque Approx 2006:

295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Induction:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

42RLE 4-Speed Automatic

Gear Ratios 42Rle:

1st: 2.84, 2nd: 1.60, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.75 (Final Drive: 3.45 or 3.92 depending on configuration)

Transmission Type:

NV3500 5-Speed Manual

Gear Ratios Nv3500:

1st: 4.01, 2nd: 2.32, 3rd: 1.34, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.79 (Final Drive: 3.45 or 3.92 depending on configuration)

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) with optional NV233 transfer case

Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (Mopar Material Standard MS-9602) for 42RLE; Manual transmission fluid meeting specific API GL-4 or GL-5 requirements (refer to manual for exact specs).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Bed:

120.1 inches (3051 mm)

Wheelbase Long Bed:

131.3 inches (3335 mm)

Overall Length Short Bed:

198.8 inches (5049 mm)

Overall Length Long Bed:

210.0 inches (5334 mm)

Overall Width:

71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Overall Height:

67.2 inches (1707 mm)

Bed Length Short:

6.2 feet (approx. 73.4 inches)

Bed Length Long:

7.2 feet (approx. 85.0 inches)

Curb Weight Approx V6:

4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg)

Curb Weight Approx V8:

4,200 - 4,700 lbs (1905 - 2132 kg)

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to 6,600 lbs (2994 kg) with appropriate engine and equipment

Payload Capacity Max:

Up to 1,600 lbs (726 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4/5 Stars (2005-2006 models)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4/5 Stars (2005-2006 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

4/5 Stars (2005-2006 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

4/5 Stars (2005-2006 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

4/5 Stars (2005-2006 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4/5 Stars (2005-2006 models)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:

Acceptable (for specific model years/tests)

ABS:

Standard (4-wheel anti-lock brakes)

Traction Control:

Available

Electronic Stability Control:

Not typically available for this generation

Airbags Front:

Standard driver and passenger front airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front seat-mounted side airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Base AM/FM stereo, optional CD player, optional premium Infinity sound system with amplifier.

Navigation:

Not typically available for this generation.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Parking Sensors:

Not typically available.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions may exist.

Bluetooth:

Not available on factory systems for this generation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult the manual for specific intervals based on severe/normal usage.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically around 30,000 miles).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically around 30,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (long-life platinum/iridium)

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Approx. 100,000 miles (long-life platinum/iridium)

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmission. Refer to manual for exact interval and procedure.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation based on temperature)

Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L V6:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L V8:

6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Additive Technology), typically orange or red.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 13.0 - 14.0 US quarts (12.3 - 13.3 liters) depending on engine and configuration.

Common Issues Powertrain:

PCM issues, occasional transmission solenoid issues in the 42RLE, water pump leaks (especially on early 4.7L V8s), exhaust manifold cracks (4.7L V8)

Common Issues Suspension Brakes:

Ball joint wear, control arm bushing wear, brake rotor warping, caliper seizing

Common Issues Electrical:

Fuel pump module failure, ABS sensor issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failure

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, from the early Power Wagon to the Ram series. The Dakota aimed to bridge the gap between smaller compact trucks and larger full-size pickups.

Second Generation Introduction:

The second generation of the Dodge Dakota was introduced for the 1997 model year. The 2005-2006 models represent the latter part of this generation, which received a significant refresh for 2005, including updated styling and powertrains.

2005 Refresh Highlights:

Restyled exterior (new grille, headlights, hood, front fenders), updated interior, introduction of the 3.7L V6 and an improved 4.7L V8, and a new 4-speed automatic transmission (42RLE).

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA

Production Period:

This specific generation ran from 1997 to 2004, with the refreshed version covering 2005-2006, prior to the introduction of the third generation Dakota for 2007.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Previous Generation Awards:

While specific awards for the 2005-2006 models are limited, the Dodge Dakota in previous iterations received positive recognition for its V8 power and truck-like capability in the compact segment.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Consumer satisfaction varied; praised for powertrain and capability but sometimes criticized for interior build quality and minor reliability concerns compared to Japanese rivals.

Manual Accuracy:

Certified to reflect OEM service procedures and specifications for the specified model years.