🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1995

Market:

North America

Chassis Code:

AN

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1995 Dodge Dakota was a key player in the compact/mid-size pickup truck segment, known for its blend of utility, comfort, and available V8 power, competing with models like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet S-10.

Cab Configurations:

Regular Cab and Club Cab (extended cab) configurations.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against established rivals by offering a more refined ride, distinctive styling, and a more potent V8 engine option, appealing to buyers seeking a compact truck with car-like manners and robust performance.

Key Features:

Available in regular cab and club cab configurations, short and long wheelbases, rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) options, and a range of gasoline engines including a fuel-efficient V6 and a potent V8.

Engine Availability:

The introduction of the Magnum V8 engine in this generation marked a significant step up in performance for the Dakota.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All 1995 Dodge Dakota models and trims

Engine Coverage:

Full coverage for 2.5L I4, 3.9L V6, and 5.2L V8 Magnum engines.

Transmission Coverage:

Complete repair and diagnostic procedures for 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions.

Chassis Coverage:

Detailed information on suspension, steering, brakes (including ABS), and frame components.

Electrical Coverage:

Extensive coverage of all electrical systems, including engine controls, lighting, comfort features, and accessory circuits with detailed wiring diagrams.

Page Count:

Extensive, comprehensive (software format implies searchable digital content)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Software)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel system, Ignition system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system, Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain (2WD & 4WD), Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS & non-ABS), Body electrical, HVAC, Chassis, Exterior/Interior trim, Diagnostic procedures, Troubleshooting

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, Scheduled service, Component removal & installation, Component overhaul & repair, Electrical diagnostics, Wiring diagrams, Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, Adjustments, Specifications, Torque values, Fluid capacities and types, Replacement part recommendations

Diagnostics Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common faults, including methods for identifying electrical shorts, open circuits, and sensor malfunctions using a multimeter and oscilloscope.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated instructions for component repair, such as engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, and suspension component replacement.

Maintenance Schedules:

Comprehensive maintenance schedules broken down by mileage and time intervals, covering all essential checks and replacements.

Body Repair:

Procedures for interior and exterior trim removal and installation, panel repair, and glass replacement.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, in-depth electrical system troubleshooting and body component repair.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Detailed, symptom-based troubleshooting guides to quickly diagnose and resolve common mechanical and electrical problems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (proprietary or PDF, typically searchable)

Searchability:

Text is typically searchable within the software, allowing users to quickly find specific topics or components.

Graphics Quality:

Diagrams and illustrations are generally of good quality, clear enough for component identification and assembly/disassembly guidance.

Updates:

As software, it may offer a static snapshot of service information unless explicitly updated by the publisher. This implies it's based on the official factory service information for the 1995 model year.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, but implies high-resolution diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L Magnum I4, 3.9L Magnum V6, 5.2L Magnum V8

2.5L Magnum I4 Performance:

Approx. 125 hp @ 4800 rpm, 150 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

3.9L Magnum V6 Performance:

Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.2L Magnum V8 Performance:

Approx. 230 hp @ 4400 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

2.5L Magnum I4 Torque:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

3.9L Magnum V6 Torque:

Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

5.2L Magnum V8 Torque:

Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for all engines

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

2.5L Engine Code:

NP2 (2.5L Magnum I4)

3.9L Engine Code:

LH6 (3.9L Magnum V6)

5.2L Engine Code:

LT1 (5.2L Magnum V8)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual (Getrag A500 series for V6/V8, NV3500 for V6/V8)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (A500/42RE for V6/V8)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled torque converter lock-up on automatic transmissions for improved fuel economy.

Automatic Transmission Code:

A500 / 42RE

Manual Transmission Codes:

NV3500 (V6/V8), Getrag A500 series (I4)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

111.9 inches (short bed), 124.9 inches (long bed)

Bed Length Options:

6.3 feet (short bed), 7.5 feet (long bed)

Front Track:

Approx. 61.7 inches (RWD), 61.6 inches (4WD)

Rear Track:

Approx. 61.9 inches (RWD), 61.8 inches (4WD)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,300 - 4,200 lbs depending on configuration

Payload Capacity Range:

Approx. 1,200 - 2,000 lbs depending on configuration

Towing Capacity Range:

Approx. 2,000 - 6,600 lbs depending on engine, drivetrain, and axle ratio

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not available for this model year (pre-dates standardized testing for light trucks)

Active Safety Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels, optional on 4WD models. Power assisted steering.

Brake System:

Front: Ventilated disc brakes. Rear: Drum brakes (standard); Optional rear disc with ABS.

Passive Safety Features:

Three-point seat belts, high-strength steel in body structure, integrated side-impact protection in doors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player. Analog gauges, basic climate controls.

Speaker System:

Standard 2 or 4 speaker system. Optional premium sound system available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS on some models. No advanced electronic driver aids like traction control or stability control were standard or widely available.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports. Basic wiring for aftermarket stereo installations.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service) depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise recommendations.

Tune Up Interval:

Refer to manual; typically at 30,000, 60,000, 100,000 miles (spark plugs, filters, etc.)

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Dexron II/III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact type)

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Transfer Case Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (for 4WD models, refer to manual for specific type)

Differential Fluid Rear:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (limited-slip requires additive if applicable, check manual)

Known Issues:

Common issues include front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), radiator leaks, occasional transmission shift delays (automatic), and exhaust manifold cracks on V8 engines. Rusting on fenders and rocker panels can also be a concern.

Electrical Issues:

Common electrical issues can include power window motor failure, intermittent dashboard warning lights, and problems with the ignition switch or starter solenoid.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history of producing trucks, beginning with the Dodge Power Wagon and continuing through various pickup truck lines.

Model Evolution:

The 1995 Dakota represented the second generation of the model (1997-2004), which introduced a significant redesign with more aerodynamic styling and updated powertrains, including the Magnum V8.

Generation Dates:

First Generation: 1987–1996. The 1995 model year falls within the first generation but represents the latter part of its lifecycle before the significant redesign in 1997.

Production Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan