🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2005

Internal Code:

ND

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Work trucks, recreational users, general consumers needing a smaller pickup

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon

Differentiation:

Often offered a blend of car-like ride and truck capability, with a focus on affordability.

Vehicle Highlights:

Available V8 engine, relatively comfortable ride for a truck, versatile for light-duty work and daily driving.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

North America

Transmission Types Covered:

Automatic, Manual

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000

Type:

Service Manual

Scope:

Comprehensive Repair and Maintenance

Language:

Spanish

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

HVAC:

Yes

Body And Frame:

Yes

Safety Systems:

Yes

Diagnostics:

Yes

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for all major components

Depth:

Comprehensive

Level Of Detail:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers

Torque Specifications:

Included for all critical fasteners

Diagnostic Charts:

Extensive, covering various failure modes

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content

Print Readability:

High-resolution, designed for clear printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

3.9L V6

Engine Code:

12-valve OHV V6 (e.g., 3.9L Magnum)

Horsepower 3.9L:

Approx. 175-180 hp

Torque 3.9L:

Approx. 230-235 lb-ft

Optional Engine Displacement:

4.7L V8

Optional Engine Code:

16-valve OHV V8 (e.g., 4.7L Magnum)

Horsepower 4.7L:

Approx. 230-235 hp

Torque 4.7L:

Approx. 295-300 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE)

Type V8:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE, depending on specific build)

Drivetrain Options:

RWD, 4WD

Transfer Case Type:

Part-time 4WD system (NV235 or similar)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

Approx. 111.7 inches

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

Approx. 124.9 inches

Overall Length Varies:

Depending on cab and bed configuration

Bed Length Standard:

Approx. 6.25 feet

Bed Length Long:

Approx. 8 feet

Curb Weight Base:

Approx. 3800-4200 lbs

Gvwr Varies:

Depending on configuration, typically 5,000-6,000 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Good

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

Acceptable (Varies by configuration)

ABS:

Standard on most models

Traction Control:

Optional/Available

Airbags Front:

Standard Dual Frontal Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio Options:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems.

Navigation:

Not widely available or standard on 2005 models.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Rarely present on 2005 models; typically requires aftermarket adapter.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Synthetic:

7,500-10,000 miles or 6-12 months (using synthetic oil)

Oil Change Interval Conventional:

3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (using conventional oil)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (if platinum/iridium plugs are used)

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Approx. 100,000 miles (if platinum/iridium plugs are used)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API certified)

Engine Oil Capacity 3.9L:

Approx. 5 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:

Approx. 6 quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

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

Transmission Fluid Type Auto 42Re:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto 45Rfe/545Rfe:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems Early Models:

Some early second-gen models experienced issues with ignition coils, camshaft position sensors, and early transmission problems.

Rust Areas:

Rear wheel wells, rocker panels, and cab corners can be susceptible to rust in areas with road salt.

Cooling System:

Water pump leaks and radiator issues can occur with age.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints and tie rod ends are common wear items.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, starting with the original Dodge Power Wagon.

Second Generation Dakota:

The 2005 model year represents the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, introduced for the 2000 model year. It featured a significant redesign and offered larger, more powerful engines, including the first V8 in a compact pickup.

Facelift 2005:

The 2005 model year received a mid-cycle refresh, with updated styling cues (grille, headlights, interior trim) and revised powertrain options.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While not a specific award winner for 2005, the Dakota generally maintained a reputation as a solid, value-oriented compact pickup.