🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

AN

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Direct Competitors 2003:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon (replacement for S-10/Sonoma), Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier

Truck Attributes:

Robust build, available V8 engine (a key differentiator in its class at the time), comfortable interior for a pickup, capable for light to moderate towing and hauling.

Benefits To Owner:

Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, saving money on labor costs, understanding their vehicle better, and ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.

Competitive Advantage:

Guaranteed up-to-date version, price matching with 25% beat, focus on customer satisfaction and 'perfect' manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 2003 Dodge Dakota

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Classification:

Service Repair Manual

Primary Language:

English

Delivery Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (4.7L Magnum V8, 3.7L Magnum V6), Transmission (4-speed automatic 42RE, 4-speed automatic 45RFE/48RE, 5-speed manual NV3500), Drivetrain (2WD, 4WD, Transfer Case)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front Independent, Rear Leaf Spring), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), Wheels and Tires

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Glass, Bumpers, Body Sealing

Electrical:

Ignition System, Fuel System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC System, Power Accessories, Audio System, Security System, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM)

Diagnostic:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Systems, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Wiring Diagrams

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections and Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement, Tire Rotations

Repair:

Engine Component Overhaul (e.g., cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft), Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, HVAC System Repairs

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and performance concerns using symptom-based approaches and wiring diagrams.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, clearances, and diagnostic parameters.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics including detailed troubleshooting charts, component testing procedures, and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the PCM and other modules.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine and transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including necessary specifications and tolerances.

Electrical Schematics:

Comprehensive and detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, and component connections, crucial for accurate electrical diagnosis.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printable Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of all text, diagrams, and images.

Digital Format:

Downloadable and viewable on any computer (Windows/MAC) with PDF reader software.

Digital Storage:

Electronic file, no physical paper or binding.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.7L (226 ci)

Engine 1 Configuration:

SOHC V6 Magnum

Engine 1 Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.7L (287 ci)

Engine 2 Configuration:

SOHC V8 Magnum

Engine 2 Horsepower:

235 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Emission System:

Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), Oxygen Sensors

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (NV3500) - Often standard on base models/engines

Optional Transmission Type 1:

4-speed automatic (42RE) - Typically with the 3.7L V6

Optional Transmission Type 2:

4-speed automatic (45RFE/48RE) - Typically with the 4.7L V8

Transmission Fluid Spec V8:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Transmission Fluid Spec V6 Auto:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

Refer to manual for specific gear oil type (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant, API GL-4)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Bed:

113.1 inches

Wheelbase Long Bed:

124.8 inches

Overall Length Short Bed:

197.3 inches

Overall Length Long Bed:

219.0 inches

Width Excluding Mirrors:

72.4 inches

Height:

65.3 inches

Curb Weight Approx:

3,700 - 4,200 lbs (Varies by configuration)

Max Payload Capacity:

Up to 1,500 lbs (Varies by configuration)

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,400 lbs (with V8, 4WD, and proper trailering package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

Good (4-star rating)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

Good (4-star rating)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

Good (4-star rating)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

Good (4-star rating)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (optional), and optional premium sound systems with amplifiers and subwoofers.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic blend or full synthetic oil recommended)

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions (inspect regularly)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:

Every 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval V8:

Every 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 60,000 miles or 5 years

Engine Oil Type V6 V8:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

5.0 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity V8:

6.0 quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically pink or orange

Common Issues Summary:

Heater core leaks, rear axle seal leaks, minor electrical gremlins, some reports of transmission solenoid issues in early automatics, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on V8).

Heater Core Symptoms:

Lukewarm cabin heat, sweet smell inside the cabin, foggy windshield, coolant residue on passenger side floor mat.

Rear Axle Leak Location:

Typically at the differential pinion seal or axle shaft seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century. The Dakota was positioned as a smaller, more maneuverable alternative to the full-size Ram.

Second Generation Launch:

The second generation of the Dodge Dakota (AN platform) was introduced for the 1997 model year. The 2003 model represents a mid-cycle update, featuring revised styling and powertrain options.

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA

An Platform Production:

1997-2004

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Past Awards Context:

While specific individual awards for the 2003 model year might not be widely publicized, the Dodge Dakota line consistently received recognition for its V8 engine offering and overall value proposition within its segment during its production run.