🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2005-2007

Chassis Code:

2nd Generation (2005-2011)

Vin Code:

X (for 2005), Y (for 2006), Z (for 2007)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Dakota in this generation was positioned as a mid-size pickup truck, offering a balance between the compact and full-size segments. It appealed to buyers seeking more capability than compact trucks without the larger footprint and fuel consumption of full-size models. It was known for its powerful V8 engine options and comfortable interior.

Target Audience:

The 2005-2007 Dodge Dakota appeals to buyers seeking a mid-size pickup with V8 power, comfortable interior, and a strong value proposition. It's suitable for light-to-medium duty hauling, towing, and general use.

Competitive Analysis:

Key competitors during this period included the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, and Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon. The Dakota often stood out with its available V8 engines, a segment where many competitors offered only V6 or four-cylinder powerplants. Its styling was also generally considered more aggressive than some rivals.

Key Features:

Robust truck platform, available 4.7L V8 and 3.7L V6 engines, choice of rear-wheel drive or 4x4, comfortable and car-like interior for a pickup, optional premium features, and towing/hauling capabilities.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Dodge Dakota models from 2005 to 2007, including all engine and drivetrain configurations.

Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (estimated for comprehensive coverage)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, starting system, charging system, ignition system, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, propeller shafts, drive shafts, differentials, axles, steering, suspension (front and rear), brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires, body panels, interior trim, HVAC, exterior lighting, interior lighting, electrical systems, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), infotainment, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, frame straightening, rust prevention, door and window mechanisms, interior trim components, seat removal, headliner, dashboard.

Procedures Included:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, disassembly and reassembly of all major components, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, maintenance schedules, component testing, specifications and procedures for all factory-installed options and features.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for all major systems including engine performance, fuel delivery, ignition, transmission control, ABS, airbags, and body electronics. Includes symptom-based troubleshooting charts.

Repair Procedures:

Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine, transmission, axles, suspension components, brake assemblies, steering gear, climate control system, and body components.

Electrical Schematics:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including engine control, lighting, power accessories, instrument cluster, and safety systems.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Tire changing, balancing, rotation, wheel alignment specifications, wheel bearing service, lug nut torque specifications (typically 130 lb-ft).

Brake System Service:

Brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper service, master cylinder replacement, brake bleeding procedures, ABS component testing.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Searchable PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear text, and detailed diagrams suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.7L Magnum V6

Engine Displacement V6:

3.7 Liters (226 cu in)

Engine Displacement V8:

4.7 Liters (287 cu in)

Engine Variants:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8 (including High Output version in later years).

Horsepower V6:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque V6:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower V8:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm (standard 4.7L), 250 hp @ 5200 rpm (High Output)

Torque V8:

295 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (standard 4.7L), 325 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm (High Output)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Engine Code V6:

EVE (for 3.7L)

Engine Code V8:

EVA (for 4.7L)

Engine Layout:

Overhead Valve (OHV) for 4.7L V8, Overhead Cam (OHC) for 3.7L V6.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (NV3500) for V6 models.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (42RE/45RFE) for V6; 5-speed automatic transmission (5-45RFE) for V8.

Features:

Available 4x4 transfer cases (manual or electronic shift), limited-slip differentials (optional).

Transfer Case Options:

NV130 (part-time 4WD), NV244 (full-time 4WD with electronic range selection).

Fluid Spec Auto:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Fluid Spec Manual:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

124.5 inches (standard cab), 140.0 inches (extended cab)

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (approx. 201-226 inches)

Bed Length:

6.25 feet (75 inches), 8.0 feet (96 inches)

Curb Weight:

Starts around 4,300 lbs and increases with configuration and engine choice.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,000 lbs (with appropriate configuration and V8 engine).

Payload Capacity:

Up to 1,500 lbs (depending on configuration).

Seating Capacity:

2-3 (Regular Cab), 4-6 (Extended and Quad Cab).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Acceptable (for models with side airbags)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), optional Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Features:

Front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, seatbelt pretensioners.

Seatbelt Type:

Three-point shoulder and lap belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base AM/FM radio with CD player. Optional premium audio systems, satellite radio readiness, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance:

Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS and Traction Control. Backup cameras and parking sensors were not standard during this period.

Connectivity:

Auxiliary input jack for audio devices (on some models/trim levels). Bluetooth integration was not common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (using synthetic oil, refer to manual for specific type).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 6,000-8,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual, typically around 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped plugs.

Engine Oil Spec:

API Certified SAE 5W-20 (for 3.7L V6) or SAE 5W-20/5W-30 (for 4.7L V8, check manual for ambient temperature suitability). Consult manual for specific Mopar or equivalent specification.

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler/Dodge HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Typically Mopar P/N 68048553AA or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (MS-5970 or MS-9224 recommended).

Differential Fluid Spec:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic for rear differential; Front differential (4x4) also SAE 75W-90. Check specific axle ratio requirements.

Known Issues:

Rattling noise from exhaust manifold heat shields, potential for intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on V8s), occasional issues with ABS sensors, and sometimes premature wear on front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends) depending on driving conditions.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.7L V6: 6.0 quarts (5.7 L); 4.7L V8: 7.0 quarts (6.6 L) - with filter change. Always verify with dipstick.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 14.0 quarts (13.2 L) for V6, 15.3 quarts (14.5 L) for V8. Varies slightly by configuration.

Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:

Approx. 3.0 quarts (2.8 L) dry fill for 45RFE/5-45RFE.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history in the truck market, dating back to the early 1930s. The Dodge Dakota nameplate was introduced in 1987 as a compact pickup, and the 2005 model year marked the debut of its second generation, which was larger and more powerful than its predecessor.

Model Evolution:

The 2005 Dakota represented a significant redesign, growing in size and adopting styling cues from Dodge's larger Ram trucks. It was available in Regular Cab, Extended Cab, and Quad Cab configurations. The second generation introduced the V8 engine option, significantly enhancing its utility and market appeal. It received minor updates throughout its lifecycle.

Production Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2005-2007 Dakota are not as widely publicized as later models, it was generally well-regarded in its segment for its V8 power and comfortable ride. It was often cited in comparisons for offering more power than its rivals.