🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2008

Platform:

Fourth Generation (2005-2011)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2008 Dodge Dakota occupied a niche in the mid-size pickup truck market, often positioned as a more powerful and domestically produced alternative to smaller imports and a more affordable option compared to full-size trucks.

Competitors:

Competed primarily with the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma. The Dakota was known for its available V8 engines, which were often more powerful than those offered by competitors in the segment.

Distinguishing Features:

The defining feature of the 2008 Dakota was its V8 engine options, offering robust towing and hauling capabilities for its class. It also offered a more rugged styling and often a lower price point than larger trucks.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

4.7L V8 Magnum, 3.7L V6 Magnum

Transmission Coverage:

4-Speed Automatic 45RFE/48RE, 6-Speed Manual NV3500

Drivetrain Coverage:

2WD (RWD), 4WD

Body Style Coverage:

Club Cab, Crew Cab

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Type:

Factory Authorized Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital, likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics, internal engine repair.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission overhaul and repair (45RFE/48RE), manual transmission service (NV3500), transfer case operation and repair, axle and differential servicing.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, ABS diagnostics and repair, parking brake system, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment procedures, power steering system, shock absorber and strut replacement.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system schematics, battery and charging system, starting system, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, HVAC controls, body control module (BCM) diagnostics.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, heater core service, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant handling procedures.

Body:

Body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, door mechanisms, tailgate, bumpers, glass replacement, paint and corrosion protection.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems, scan tool usage, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine component replacement, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement, electrical component diagnostics and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting trees for common and complex issues, identifying root causes of malfunctions.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, electrical component specifications, diagnostic data, clearances, and tolerances.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary format, designed for digital access and searchability).

Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages with clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Software format)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Software format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.7L V6 Magnum

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.7 Liters (226 cubic inches)

Engine 1 Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine 1 Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2:

4.7L V8 Magnum

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.7 Liters (285 cubic inches)

Engine 2 Configuration:

SOHC V8

Engine 2 Horsepower:

230 hp @ 4500 rpm (Standard V8), 240 hp @ 4000 rpm (High Output V8)

Engine 2 Torque:

290 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Standard V8), 300 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (High Output V8)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

6-Speed Manual (NV3500)

Transmission Optional V6:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE)

Transmission Optional V8:

4-Speed Automatic (48RE)

Overdrive Gears:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive gearing for improved fuel economy.

Transfer Case:

Available with part-time 4WD system (NV235 or NV244).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Club Cab:

120.3 inches

Wheelbase Crew Cab:

140.2 inches

Bed Lengths:

6-foot (72.6 inches) and 8-foot (96.7 inches)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,200 - 5,000 lbs (varies by configuration)

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to 10,000 lbs (with 4.7L V8, specific configurations)

Payload Capacity Max:

Up to 1,800 lbs (varies by configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4/5 Stars (for 2008 model year)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4/5 Stars (for 2008 model year)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for 2008 model year)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control on some models.

Airbags Front:

Standard front airbags for driver and passenger.

Airbags Side:

Optional front and rear side curtain airbags available on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and optional premium audio systems.

Navigation:

Optional GPS navigation system integrated into the infotainment unit on higher trims.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external media devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to specific engine recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

3.7L V6: Approximately 100,000 miles (check manual for specific plug type and interval). 4.7L V8: Approximately 100,000 miles (check manual for specific plug type and interval).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 (recommended for both 3.7L and 4.7L engines for optimal fuel economy and performance, consult owner's manual for exact specifications and capacity).

Engine Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5/150 HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769.

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent meeting Chrysler spec MS-9602.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MTX) or equivalent meeting Chrysler spec MS-9224.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent meeting Chrysler spec MS-5901.

Common Issues List:

Fuel pump failures, ABS sensor issues, front suspension wear (ball joints, control arms), occasional transmission solenoid failures, exhaust manifold leaks (especially 4.7L V8), interior trim rattles.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history in the pickup truck market, dating back to the early 1900s, known for robust and powerful trucks.

Dakota History:

The Dodge Dakota was introduced in 1987 as Dodge's first mid-size pickup truck. The 2008 model represents the fourth generation, which debuted in 2005 with a significantly larger and more substantial design, bridging the gap between compact and full-size trucks.

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

Production Years:

1987-2011 (This manual covers the 2008 model year of the fourth generation.)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Typical Awards:

While specific awards for the 2008 model year are scarce, the Dakota generally received positive remarks for its V8 power and towing capacity within its segment during its generation. It was often considered a strong value proposition.