Segment:
Mid-size Pickup Truck
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Distinctive Features:
Unique Magnaflow exhaust system (optional on some trims), available V8 engine in its class, robust chassis and suspension.
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, HVAC controls, power accessories, body control modules, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints, HVAC system operation, exterior and interior lighting.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, symptom analysis, fault finding.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures.
2.4L I4:
Engine Code: 2.4L DOHC I4 (GEMA engine family). Horsepower: Approx. 142 hp @ 5200 rpm. Torque: Approx. 159 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
3.7L V6:
Engine Code: 3.7L SOHC V6 (successor to the 3.9L). Horsepower: Approx. 210 hp @ 5200 rpm. Torque: Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
4.7L V8:
Engine Code: 4.7L SOHC V8 (Magnum). Horsepower: Approx. 230 hp @ 4600 rpm. Torque: Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Bore X Stroke 2.4L:
87.5 mm x 96 mm
Bore X Stroke 3.7L:
91.1 mm x 95 mm
Bore X Stroke 4.7L:
93 mm x 86.5 mm
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.
Audio System:
Base AM/FM/CD player. Optional premium audio systems with CD changer and amplifier were available.
Navigation:
Not widely available on this generation; primarily aftermarket or dealer-installed options.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Trailer Tow Package:
Available trailer tow package with enhanced cooling and wiring for trailer lights and brakes.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, and power mirrors were available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic blend oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Every 100,000 miles (use recommended spark plug type).
Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8:
Every 100,000 miles (use recommended spark plug type).
Engine Oil Spec 2.4L V6:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher.
Engine Oil Spec 4.7L V8:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher.
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix.
Transmission Fluid 42Rle:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid 45Rfe 545Rfe:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings (due to truck usage).
Engine Issues:
Potential for plenum gasket leaks on the 4.7L V8, though less common than in earlier models.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional torque converter shudder or internal wear on automatic transmissions with high mileage.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century.
Second Gen Debut:
The second generation (AN) of the Dakota debuted in 1997, offering a larger size and more powerful engine options compared to its predecessor.
2005 Updates:
The 2005 model year received a significant mid-cycle refresh, including updated exterior styling, a revised interior, and the introduction of the 3.7L V6 engine as a replacement for the outgoing 3.9L V6.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.
