Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier
Durability:
Known for its robust construction and reliable powertrains, particularly the V8 option.
Capability:
Offered with 2WD and 4WD, and a choice of bed lengths catering to various utility needs.
Engine Options:
Provided a range of inline-4, V6, and V8 engines, offering competitive power and towing capacity for its class.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline engines offered in 2000.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (if applicable), rear-wheel drive, and 4WD systems including differentials and axles.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component repair, alignment specifications, and shock/strut replacement.
Brakes:
ABS, disc and drum brake system diagnostics, repair, and component replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system repair, rack and pinion or steering gearbox service.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for lighting, ignition, starting, charging, and accessories.
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, and ventilation system diagnosis and repair.
Body:
Exterior and interior body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and trim.
Chassis:
Frame diagnosis and repair, exhaust system, fuel tank and lines.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance procedures, oil change intervals, filter replacement, fluid checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems and components.
Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential overhaul procedures.
Installation:
Component installation and replacement procedures.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, and alignment data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Option 1:
2.5L (150 cu in) Magnum L4
Engine Option 1 Power:
Approx. 120 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine Option 1 Torque:
Approx. 145 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine Option 2:
3.9L (239 cu in) Magnum V6
Engine Option 2 Power:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine Option 2 Torque:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine Option 3:
4.7L (287 cu in) Magnum V8
Engine Option 3 Power:
Approx. 220 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine Option 3 Torque:
Approx. 285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2000 models, but generally considered safe for its class.
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2000 models.
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels or rear-only.
Traction Control:
Limited or no electronic traction control available for this year.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts.
Radio Options:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player options.
Speaker Configuration:
Base models typically had 4 speakers; higher trims could offer 6 or more.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on most trims.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, and power mirrors were available options on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; typically 30,000-100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual; commonly 5W-30 or 10W-30 for V6/V8, 10W-30 for L4. Consult manual for exact API service category.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based). Capacity varies by engine.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent for 45RFE, Dexron III for older automatics. Crucial to verify specific transmission.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil as specified for the manual gearbox.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks:
Some Magnum V6 and V8 engines are prone to intake manifold gasket leaks, particularly the 3.9L and 4.7L.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic-end tank radiators can develop leaks over time.
Heater Core Leaks:
Common failure point leading to coolant smell inside the cabin.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Can occur on higher mileage vehicles.
Dodge Trucks:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for producing durable and capable trucks.
Second Generation:
The 2000 Dakota is part of the second generation (1997-2004), which saw significant updates in styling and powertrain offerings.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.
Production Years Generation:
1997-2004
