🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2003, 2004

Generation:

Third Generation (2000-2004)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance, professional technicians.

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, dealership-level repair and maintenance information to keep the 2003-2004 Dodge Dakota in optimal working condition.

Manual Advantage:

Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions far surpass owner's manuals in scope and technical detail.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Vehicle Variants:

All trim levels and configurations for 2003-2004 Dodge Dakota

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel system (including MPI/GDI), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission controls, engine performance diagnostics, engine overhaul procedures.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (NV3500), Automatic transmission (42RLE, 45RFE/48RE depending on engine), clutch system, torque converter, transmission diagnostics, overhaul and repair procedures.

Drivetrain Systems:

Front axle, rear axle, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, transfer case (if applicable).

Suspension Systems:

Front suspension (independent, likely torsion bar or coil spring), rear suspension (leaf spring solid axle), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles, alignment specifications.

Braking Systems:

Front brakes (discs), rear brakes (discs or drums depending on configuration), ABS system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Steering Systems:

Power steering system, steering gear/rack and pinion, steering column, tie rod ends, power steering fluid specifications.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, ignition switch, fuse box, relay assignments, wiring diagrams for all circuits, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), trailer wiring.

HVAC Systems:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant type and capacity, system diagnostics, leak detection.

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, exterior trim, weatherstripping, glass, mirrors, seating systems.

Diagnostic Tools:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, using scan tools.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, differential fluid changes, transmission fluid changes, belt inspections and replacement, tire rotations, battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic charts.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement.

Installation:

Procedures for installing replacement parts, accessory installations, and component adjustments.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, alignment angles, diagnostic parameters.

Depth:

Comprehensive coverage from basic preventative maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High resolution, searchable text, printable pages.

Searchability:

Full text search capability for quick access to information.

Printability:

Designed for clear printing of individual pages or sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L I4 (EDZ), 3.7L V6 Magnum (EWG), 4.7L V8 Magnum (END).

2.4L I4 (Edz):

147 hp @ 5200 rpm, 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

3.7L V6 Magnum (Ewg):

210 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

4.7L V8 Magnum (End):

235 hp @ 4800 rpm, 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (for 2003, later models saw slight increases)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, V6, V8 (depending on configuration)

Bore Stroke:

Varies by engine (e.g., 4.7L V8: 3.88 x 3.31 in)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

ECM Type:

Proprietary Chrysler/Dodge ECM (Electronic Control Module)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (NV3500)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (42RLE for V6, 45RFE/48RE for V8)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions), Manual transmission fluid (specific GL-4 or GL-5 depending on unit)

Transfer Case:

Available 4WD models with part-time transfer case (e.g., NV235, NV244).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

124.0 inches (standard cab and quad cab configurations)

Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., ~205-225 inches)

Width:

Approx. 79.1 inches

Height:

Approx. 69.5 inches

Bed Length:

Available in 6.0-foot and 7.0-foot bed lengths.

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically 3800-4500 lbs.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,500 lbs (with proper equipment and V8 engine).

Payload Capacity:

Up to 1,500 lbs (varies by configuration).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

Good (4-star equivalent in older ratings)

IIHS Front Crash Test:

Acceptable

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system on some models.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags (driver and passenger).

Seat Belts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

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

Climate Control:

Manual climate control, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Trailer Brake Controller:

Optional integration for trailer brake controllers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type (e.g., conventional: 30,000 miles; platinum: 60,000-100,000 miles).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (depending on engine and climate), API Certified.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant or equivalent (typically Mopar HOAT or P-HOAT).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific requirement).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or a specified power steering fluid.

Common Issues 2.4L:

Head gasket failures, oil leaks, piston ring wear.

Common Issues V6 V8:

Cooling system issues (radiator leaks, water pump failures), oil cooler line leaks (on some V8s), catalytic converter issues, transmission problems (especially the 42RLE).

Common Issues General:

Rust on body panels and frame (especially in salt belt regions), interior trim rattles, ABS sensor failures, power window regulator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Trucks:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, building on the legacy of Ram trucks.

Third Generation Dakota:

The 2000-2004 generation represented a significant redesign, offering larger dimensions, more powerful V8 options, and improved styling compared to its predecessor.

2003 Updates:

Minor updates for 2003, primarily focused on feature packaging and potentially slight powertrain refinements.

2004 Updates:

Introduction of the redesigned 2005 model year marked the end of this generation, so 2004 was largely a carry-over year.

Manufacturing Plant:

Mack Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan, and also Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While specific awards for the 2003-2004 model year are not widely publicized, the Dodge Dakota was generally well-regarded in its segment for its V8 power and comfortable ride.