Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV.
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking a versatile SUV with towing capability and utility.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Body-on-frame construction for durability, available V8 engines, robust towing capacity, spacious interior.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform comprehensive service and repair, saving on labor costs and ensuring longevity.
Manual Type:
Full Service & Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, implied by 'Product Description')
Completeness:
Comprehensive (repair, maintain, rebuild, refurbish, restore)
Engine:
Diagnosis, repair, rebuilding procedures for all available engines.
Transmission:
Service, repair, and overhaul for automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, including differentials and axles.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including shock absorbers, springs, and control arms.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering linkage components.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum or disc/disc), hydraulic systems, ABS components.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, heater core, and cooling system diagnosis.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, emissions control systems.
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust pipes, and related components.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating system components, operation, and repair.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks, belt inspections, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common and complex problems.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment across all vehicle systems.
Rebuilding:
In-depth procedures for engine and transmission overhauls, including component specifications.
Refurbishing Restoration:
Guidance on bringing older vehicles back to excellent condition, including cosmetic and functional aspects.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and sensor data interpretation.
Depth:
Extensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork.
Wheelbase:
116.0 inches (2946 mm)
Length:
193.3 inches (4909 mm)
Width:
74.0 inches (1880 mm)
Height:
67.8 inches (1722 mm)
Curb Weight Approx V6 2Wd:
4476 lbs (2030 kg)
Curb Weight Approx V8 4Wd:
4780 lbs (2168 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row Approx:
N/A (Not available with 3rd row in 1998 model)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row Approx:
83.0 cu ft (2350 L)
Max Towing Capacity Approx:
7400 lbs (3357 kg) for V8 4WD models
NHTSA Rollover Rating 2Wd:
4 out of 5 stars (implied by contemporary SUV standards)
NHTSA Rollover Rating 4Wd:
4 out of 5 stars (implied by contemporary SUV standards)
ABS:
Standard on all models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat pre-tensioners.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player standard. Optional CD player available. Multiple speaker configurations offered.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trim levels.
Four Wheel Drive System:
Part-time 4WD system available, selectable via a transfer case lever.
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-II compliant, allowing for connection of diagnostic scan tools.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
V6: ~100,000 miles; V8: ~100,000 miles (using platinum or iridium plugs).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as specified by severe duty use.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (preferred for all-season use) or SAE 10W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity:
V6: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter; V8: 5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (Chrysler spec MS-9769 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Common Problem 1:
Premature wear of front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings) due to vehicle weight and typical usage.
Common Problem 2:
Heater core leaks, often leading to coolant loss and defogger fogging.
Common Problem 3:
Cracking exhaust manifolds, particularly on V8 models, leading to ticking sounds on startup.
Common Problem 4:
Power steering pump leaks or failure.
Common Problem 5:
Transmission solenoid issues or torque converter problems leading to shifting complaints.
Dodge SUV History:
Dodge entered the SUV market with the Durango, leveraging its truck and performance heritage.
Generation Introduction:
First generation launched for the 1998 model year.
Platform:
Built on the Chrysler NS platform, sharing components with the Dakota pickup truck.
Manufacturing Location:
Newark, Delaware, USA.
Production Years:
1998-2003 (First Generation).
Truck Of The Year:
While not universally awarded, its debut was significant, positioning it as a strong contender in the burgeoning SUV market.
Consumer Reports Typical Rating:
Mixed to average in early years, often citing reliability concerns in certain areas, which a good service manual addresses.
