Vehicle Segment:
Compact pickup truck
Key Selling Points:
The 1995 Dodge Dakota was a significant player in the compact truck market, known for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and a good balance of capability and everyday usability. It offered a more car-like driving experience compared to some of its rivals.
Primary Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma (though the Tacoma entered later, it was a benchmark), Nissan Hardbody.
Vehicle Highlights:
Available in Regular Cab and Club Cab configurations. Offered a range of powertrains to suit different needs. The design for this generation was a departure from previous Dakotas, featuring smoother lines and a more aerodynamic profile.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission, clutch, driveshaft, differentials
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes (disc and drum), parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering, wheel alignment
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, wiring diagrams, body electrical controls, power windows, locks
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation and repair
Body Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, bumpers, glass, exterior trim
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine overhaul, transmission R&R, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for common malfunctions, pinpoint tests, wiring schematic interpretation, fault code retrieval (where applicable)
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Digital Format Availability:
While original is printed, digital (PDF) versions are often available from aftermarket providers.
Original Print Quality:
High quality, designed for durability in a workshop environment. Clear illustrations and legible text.
Binding Type:
Original factory manuals are typically professionally bound for durability.
Paper Type:
Durable, semi-gloss paper stock to withstand workshop conditions.
Engine Options:
2.5L Magnum 4-cylinder, 3.9L Magnum V6, 5.2L Magnum V8
2.5L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 123 hp @ 4800 rpm
2.5L V6 Torque:
Approx. 136 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
3.9L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.9L V6 Torque:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
5.2L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 205 hp @ 4500 rpm
5.2L V8 Torque:
Approx. 275 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Engine Identification Codes:
4-cyl: 'X'; 3.9L V6: 'G'; 5.2L V8: 'Y' (refer to VIN and specific engine tag for precise identification)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 360 for V8, Getrag 325 for V6/4-cyl)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (A500/42RH for V6/V8, A518/46RH for V8 optional)
Transmission Features:
Overdrive gears in automatics, robust construction, available with 2WD and 4WD drivetrains.
Wheelbase:
112.0 inches (Regular Cab), 124.5 inches (Club Cab)
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., approx. 196-217 inches)
Bed Lengths:
6.0 ft (short bed), 8.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, typically 3,200 - 4,200 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically 5,000 - 5,700 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Refer to NHTSA archives for specific model year ratings; generally good for its era.
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models, particularly with V8 and automatic transmissions.
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts), strong body structure, reinforced cab.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited for its era. ABS was the primary advanced feature available.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports. Primarily analog systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Manual: Inspect periodically, change if contaminated or at higher mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type, typically 30,000 - 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on temperature (refer to manual for specific viscosity grades and API service classifications).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, Mopar OAT or HOAT type (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Specification:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent aftermarket specification, e.g., Dexron III/Mercon compatible for older models if specified).
Manual Transmission Fluid Specification:
GL-5 gear oil, viscosity varies by transmission type (e.g., 75W-90).
Common Problems:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8), rear main seal leaks, automatic transmission solenoid issues, front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), fuel pump failures, radiator leaks.
Recommended Checks:
Regularly check for fluid leaks, inspect belts and hoses for wear, monitor brake pad thickness.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history in the truck market, known for its powerful engines and robust designs. The Dakota line was introduced in 1987 as Dodge's first compact pickup, designed to bridge the gap between smaller compacts and larger full-size trucks.
Second Generation Introduction:
The 1995 model year marked the introduction of the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, a complete redesign from the first generation. This generation received significant praise for its styling and improved performance, especially with the introduction of the optional V8 engine.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing plant was in Warren, Michigan.
Production Years For This Generation:
1997-2004 (Note: The 1995 model year falls within a transition period, with the '95 and '96 models being the final year of the first generation and the '97 being the start of the second. This manual covers the 1995 model which is the last year of the first generation). **Correction based on product name:** The product name explicitly states '1995 Dodge Dakota Service Repair Workshop Manual', meaning it covers the 1995 model year, which is part of the first generation. The second generation began in 1997. My initial competitive analysis briefly mentioned the second generation. Clarification: The 1995 Dakota is the final model year of the *first generation* Dakota (1987-1996).
