Category:
Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, professional mechanics, fleet maintenance.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Manual Utility:
Provides detailed procedures and specifications crucial for accurate and efficient repairs.
Model Versatility:
Covers multiple engine options, cab configurations (Regular Cab, Club Cab, Quad Cab), and drivetrain layouts (2WD, 4WD).
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed engine overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, emissions controls.
Engine Performance:
Tuning, power output, emission testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Manual:
Service, repair, and overhaul for manual transmissions (if applicable to specific Dakota models).
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service, electronic controls, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front/rear axles, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case (4WD).
Brakes:
Disc and drum brake systems, ABS, hydraulic components, parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (e.g., torsion bars, leaf springs, control arms, shocks), alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, linkage, column, wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, wiring diagrams for all lighting circuits.
Instrument Panel:
Gauges, warning lights, dashboard controls, cluster removal and repair.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics, repair, refrigerant handling.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, chassis repair.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics, deployment, SRS component replacement.
Infotainment Audio:
Radio, speaker systems, wiring, diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually every component.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Detailed explanation and interpretation of OBD-II DTCs.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Professional-grade, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostics and component-level repair.
Wheelbase:
124.0 inches (standard), 132.0 inches (long bed)
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (approx. 203-211 inches)
Overall Width:
Approx. 71.0 - 72.0 inches
Overall Height:
Approx. 65.0 - 67.0 inches
Bed Length:
6.3 ft (standard bed), 7.5 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,500 lbs depending on configuration.
Payload Capacity:
Up to 1,300 - 1,900 lbs depending on configuration.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,300 - 7,200 lbs depending on engine and axle ratio.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
Good (for applicable model years/testing)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
Good (for applicable model years/testing)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags on some later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 6,000 miles or 3 to 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to specific model year for exact recommendations).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or 2 to 5 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on transmission type and usage (severe duty recommended at lower intervals).
Engine Oil Spec 2 4L:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity).
Engine Oil Spec 3 7L:
API SL, SAE 5W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity).
Engine Oil Spec 4 7L:
API SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Mopar part number 05103532AA or equivalent.
Engine 2 4L Common:
Head gasket failures, oil consumption, timing chain issues on some variants.
Engine V6 V8 Common:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, oil leaks, thermostat housing issues.
Transmission Common:
Harsh shifting, torque converter shudder on automatics.
Suspension Common:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links; front torsion bar sag.
Electrical Common:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, instrument cluster failures, power window motor issues.
Dodge Truck Lineage:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, known for their 'Ram' line before the separation. The Dakota positioned itself as a mid-size option.
Second Generation:
The 2003 model year falls into the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, which began in 1997. This generation saw significant updates including available V8 engines and improved styling.
Facelift:
The 2003 model received a facelift, introducing updated styling elements like a new grille, headlights, and revised interior options.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.