🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2001

Body Style:

Pickup Truck

Segment:

Mid-size Pickup Truck

👋 Introduction

Segment Positioning:

Competed in the mid-size pickup truck segment, offering a balance of utility, capability, and comfort. A popular choice for both work and personal use.

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier

Platform Sharing:

Shared components and platform with the Dodge Ram pickup in its early generations.

Engine Options:

Offered both V6 and V8 engine options, a key differentiator in the mid-size segment at the time.

Cab Configurations:

Available in Regular Cab and Quad Cab configurations, providing seating for 3 or up to 6 occupants.

Drivetrain Options:

Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair and Maintenance

Diagnostic Coverage:

Extensive troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures

Electrical Coverage:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams and electrical system diagnostics

Mechanical Coverage:

Detailed procedures for all mechanical systems

Body And Frame Coverage:

Repair procedures for body panels, frame, and interior components

Maintenance Schedule:

Included with specific service intervals

Estimated Page Count:

High (typically over 1500 pages for a comprehensive factory manual)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case (if applicable), drive axles, differentials, driveshafts

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front and rear), wheels, tires

Electrical And Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module, powertrain control module (PCM), infotainment system basics, power windows/locks/mirrors

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt systems

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement

Component Removal And Installation:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major components

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Identification of symptoms, diagnostic charts, pinpoint tests, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation

Rebuilding Procedures:

Instructions for rebuilding major assemblies like engines and transmissions

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete, high-resolution wiring schematics for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls)

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Mentions of factory scan tools (e.g., DRB III) and common hand tools

Special Tools Required:

Lists specific Chrysler/Dodge special tools needed for certain procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing quick navigation to specific topics

Printability:

Printable, allowing for hard copies of specific sections or the entire manual

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

2.5L Magnum (4-cylinder)

Displacement 1:

2.5 Liters

Cylinders 1:

4

Horsepower 1:

120 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1:

150 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery 1:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System 1:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based (depending on exact build)

Engine Code 2:

3.9L Magnum (V6)

Displacement 2:

3.9 Liters

Cylinders 2:

6

Horsepower 2:

175 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Torque 2:

230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery 2:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System 2:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

Engine Code 3:

5.2L Magnum (V8 - often referred to as the 5.9L in some Dodge literature for this era, but 5.2L was common in Dakota)

Displacement 3:

5.2 Liters

Cylinders 3:

8

Horsepower 3:

230 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Torque 3:

300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery 3:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System 3:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

Engine Management:

Chrysler/Dodge PCM (Powertrain Control Module) controlling fuel, ignition, and emissions

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Pump Type:

In-tank electric fuel pump

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 20-22 gallons (depending on configuration)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Auto Transmission:

42RE (4-speed automatic) for V6 and 5.2L V8 engines

Standard Manual Transmission:

NV3500 (5-speed manual) available on some V6 models

Optional Auto Transmission:

46RE (4-speed automatic) for 5.2L V8 models (more robust)

Optional Manual Transmission:

NV4500 (5-speed manual heavy-duty) on specific V8 configurations (less common)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler spec, previously ATF+3 or ATF+2)

Transfer Case 4Wd:

New Process (NP) 231 (part-time, 2-speed) or NP242 (full-time, 2-speed, less common)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

111.7 inches

Wheelbase Quad Cab:

124.6 inches

Bed Length Short:

6.3 feet (75.2 inches)

Bed Length Long:

8.0 feet (95.8 inches)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,800 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 5,500 - 6,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 7,200 lbs (with proper configuration and V8 engine)

Payload Capacity:

Up to approx. 1,500 - 2,000 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:

Likely 3-star or 4-star (common for the era, specific ratings may vary)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Rating:

Likely 3-star or 4-star (common for the era, specific ratings may vary)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Not consistently tested or rated for this year/model by IIHS

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some base configurations

Traction Control:

Optional on some models, particularly with V8 engines

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS)

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts in front, two-point belts in rear (regular cab), three-point belts in rear (Quad Cab)

Rollover Protection:

Not a specific feature, relies on structural integrity and seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

AM/FM stereo, cassette player, CD player (optional), dealer-installed CD changers

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4 or 6 speakers depending on trim level

Navigation System:

Not available from the factory for the 2001 model year

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims, optional on base models

Keyless Entry:

Optional feature, typically integrated with alarm system

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum or iridium)

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (or as per severe service schedule)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Certified) - refer to manual for exact recommendations and viscosity for temperature

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 quarts (with filter) for 4-cyl, approx. 5 quarts for V6 and V8

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Old Assembly Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent HOAT/OAT)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Ignition Coil Failure:

Common failure point, leading to misfires and rough running

Radiator Leaks:

Plastic tanks can crack or leak over time

Rear Main Seal Leaks:

Can develop leaks after higher mileage

Transmission Hard Shifts:

Can occur due to wear or solenoid issues in automatic transmissions

Window Regulator Failure:

Power window mechanisms can fail, often due to plastic components breaking

Fuel Pump Reliability:

While generally reliable, some instances of premature fuel pump failure have been reported

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, starting with the Ram in the mid-20th century, establishing a reputation for ruggedness and capability.

First Generation:

The Dodge Dakota was introduced in 1987 as Dodge's first compact pickup truck, designed to be smaller and more fuel-efficient than the full-size Ram.

Second Generation:

The 2001 model year falls within the second generation of the Dakota, which began in 1997. This generation saw significant styling updates and introduction of more powerful engine options, including the V8.

Platform Sharing 2Nd Gen:

Second generation Dakotas shared a platform with the Dodge Ram. The 2001 model introduced the available V8 engine to the Dakota line, a significant move.

Manufacturing Plant:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan

Production Years 2Nd Gen:

1997-2004

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While not a primary focus for this specific year, the Dakota has historically received positive reviews for its capability and V8 option in its segment.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Variable ratings for reliability depending on specific powertrains and components, typical for vehicles of this era. Manual provides insights for addressing common issues.