🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram Dakota Bighorn

Year:

2011

Platform Code:

ND (Second Generation)

Trim Level:

Bighorn

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet managers, owners seeking in-depth knowledge of their vehicle.

Competitors:

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

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust chassis, strong towing/hauling capacity for its class, availability of HEMI V8 option, durable powertrain options.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, enabling cost-effective maintenance and accurate repairs, empowering owners and technicians alike.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Electrical Schematics, Bodywork

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8), cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (45RFE/545RFE 4-speed automatic, NV3500 5-speed manual), transfer case (NV241HD, NV243HD)

Chassis:

Front suspension (independent short-long arm), rear suspension (solid axle leaf spring), steering system (rack and pinion or recirculating ball), brake system (front vented discs, rear discs or drums), ABS

Electrical:

12V DC system, charging system (alternator), starting system, battery, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), anti-theft system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system (HVAC), airbags, safety restraints

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II diagnostic procedures, electrical circuit testing, component testing

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications for fasteners, component clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic data parameters

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

PDF, searchable text, high-resolution images and diagrams, printable pages.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.7L Magnum V6 (P G )

Engine 2:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P N )

Engine 3:

5.7L HEMI V8 (E Z D )

Horsepower 3.7L:

210 hp @ 5,200 rpm

Torque 3.7L:

235 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Horsepower 4.7L:

310 hp @ 5,650 rpm

Torque 4.7L:

330 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm

Horsepower 5.7L:

390 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque 5.7L:

407 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for HEMI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

45RFE/545RFE 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Optional:

NV3500 5-speed Manual Transmission (typically with 3.7L V6)

Automatic Features:

Electronic controls, overdrive, torque converter lock-up clutch

Manual Features:

Single-plate dry clutch

Automatic Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Manual Fluid:

Manual Transmission Lubricant (API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Bed:

120.0 inches (3048 mm)

Wheelbase Long Bed:

131.0 inches (3327 mm)

Overall Length Short Bed:

199.2 inches (5060 mm)

Overall Length Long Bed:

210.1 inches (5337 mm)

Bed Length Short:

72.7 inches (1847 mm)

Bed Length Long:

84.7 inches (2151 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

4,200 - 4,800 lbs (1905 - 2177 kg), varies by configuration

Max Payload Approx:

Up to 1,700 lbs (771 kg)

Max Towing Capacity Approx:

Up to 6,400 lbs (2903 kg) (with 5.7L HEMI and proper towing package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 Stars (2WD), 4 Stars (4WD) for 2011 model year.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, available side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, auxiliary audio input jack. Optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Uconnect hands-free communication system with voice command and Bluetooth streaming audio.

Navigation:

Optional navigation system integrated with Uconnect system.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear park assist system.

Uconnect:

Available Uconnect system provided hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles (9,656 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 6,000 miles (9,656 km)

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,280 km), change as needed based on service history and driving conditions (refer to manual for severe conditions).

Engine Oil:

API SN or SP, SAE 5W-20 (3.7L & 4.7L), SAE 5W-30 (5.7L HEMI)

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent (HOAT/OAT compatible, orange color)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Typical Complaints:

Occasional issues with ABS sensors, minor electrical gremlins, potential for catalytic converter failure on high-mileage vehicles, some reports of heater core leaks.

Powertrain Durability:

Generally reliable powertrains, particularly the HEMI V8, but proper maintenance is crucial for longevity. Early transmission fluid changes are recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, originating with the Dodge Power Wagon and evolving through the Ram truck line.

Dakota Lineage:

The Dakota was introduced in 1987 as Chrysler's first mid-size pickup, bridging the gap between compact and full-size trucks. The 2011 model represents the final year of the second generation (ND platform), which debuted in 2005.

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA

Production Years Generation 2:

2005-2011

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While the 2011 model year itself might not have specific major awards, the Dakota platform historically received positive reviews for its capability and V8 engine options, often competing well within its segment.