🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Generation:

Third Generation (2005-2011)

Generations Covered By Manual:

2005-2012

Vin Code Prefix:

1G6...

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Pickup Truck

Competitive Landscape:

Competed directly with the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma.

Target Audience:

Individuals and businesses requiring a versatile truck for work, recreation, and daily driving.

Key Selling Points:

Powerful V8 engine options, comfortable interior, available four-wheel drive, robust build quality.

Manual Utility:

Provides DIY mechanics and professional technicians with the necessary information to maintain and repair the Dodge Dakota efficiently and correctly.

Manual Value Proposition:

Cost-effective solution for vehicle maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, and Troubleshooting

Body Styles Covered:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Club Cab), Crew Cab

Trim Levels Covered:

ST, SLT, Sport, Laramie, TRX, TRX4 (all applicable trims within the specified years)

Estimated Page Count:

2000+

Manual Type:

Complete Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and repair, engine performance troubleshooting.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic Transmission (42RLE, 45RFE, 545RFE), Manual Transmission (NV3500, NV4500), clutch system, transfer case (for 4WD models), transmission control module (TCM).

Drivetrain Suspension Steering:

Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, differentials, suspension components (front and rear), steering system (power steering, steering column), wheel alignment specifications.

Braking Systems:

Front brakes (disc), rear brakes (disc or drum depending on configuration), parking brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, hydraulic system.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn, wiper/washer system, comfort controls (HVAC), infotainment system wiring, trailer wiring harness.

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, weatherstripping, corrosion protection.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system, heater system, climate control module, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostics.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt system, occupant restraint system diagnostics.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, tire rotations, battery checks.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common drivability issues, electrical system diagnostics using OBD-II codes, pinpoint tests for specific components, wiring diagrams for all major systems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major systems, including engine teardown, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement, and electrical component repair.

Component Replacement:

Specific instructions for replacing common wear items and major components such as alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel injectors, exhaust systems, radiators, condensers, evaporators, brake rotors, pads, and master cylinders.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-based diagnostic trees for a wide range of vehicle issues, from starting problems to performance complaints.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic owner maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

OBD-II scanner, multimeter, specialized diagnostic tools (e.g., fuel pressure gauge, vacuum gauge), appropriate wrenches and sockets, torque wrenches.

Wiring Diagrams Included:

Yes, extensive and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.

Specifications Provided:

All torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, clearances, and other critical data for repairs and maintenance.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-site workshop use.

Document Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine 2005-2007:

3.7L Magnum V6 (e.g., 3.7L V6)

Base Engine 2008-2011:

3.7L Magnum V6 (e.g., 3.7L V6)

Optional Engine 2005-2007:

4.7L Magnum V8 (e.g., 4.7L V8)

Optional Engine 2008-2011:

4.7L Flex Fuel V8 (e.g., 4.7L V8 FFV)

Performance Engine 2006-2009:

5.7L HEMI V8 (e.g., 5.7L V8 HEMI)

3.7L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 210-215 hp

3.7L V6 Torque:

Approx. 230-235 lb-ft

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 235-302 hp (depending on year and variant)

4.7L V8 Torque:

Approx. 300-334 lb-ft (depending on year and variant)

5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 345 hp

5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:

Approx. 375 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 3.7L and 4.7L; 89 octane or higher recommended for 5.7L HEMI)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 20.7 gallons

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (42RLE, 45RFE)

Optional Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (NV3500)

Optional Transmission Type 2:

5-speed automatic (545RFE)

Optional Transmission Type 3:

6-speed manual (NV4500 - typically on heavier duty models)

4Wd System:

Part-time 4WD system with electronic transfer case shift (for applicable models).

Tow Haul Mode:

Available on automatic transmissions for improved towing performance.

Transmission Fluid Type 42Rle 45Rfe 545Rfe:

Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

Manual transmission fluid (check manual for specific GL rating)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

Approx. 120.0 inches

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

Approx. 131.0 inches

Wheelbase Crew Cab:

Approx. 131.0 inches

Bed Length Short:

Approx. 6.1 feet

Bed Length Long:

Approx. 7.0 feet

Seating Capacity:

2 (Regular Cab), 4-6 (Extended/Crew Cab depending on configuration)

Maximum Payload Capacity:

Varies by configuration, approx. 1,400-1,800 lbs

Maximum Towing Capacity:

Varies by engine and configuration, up to approx. 6,500 lbs (with 5.7L HEMI and proper equipment)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,200 - 4,800 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Generally rated 4-star for the period.

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Generally rated 4-star for the period.

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Variable, check specific year reports.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) – often bundled with traction control.

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags, available side curtain airbags (depending on year and trim).

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Options:

Available CD player, AM/FM radio, optional navigation system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Later models may feature Uconnect infotainment system with Bluetooth and voice control.

Speaker Systems:

Standard 4-6 speaker systems, optional premium Alpine or Infinity audio systems on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Rear Parking Assist:

Available rear parking assist sensors on some models.

Bluetooth Connectivity:

Available through Uconnect system on later models.

Usb Ports:

Available on later models with Uconnect systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L:

Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type used).

Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L/5.7L:

Approx. 100,000 miles (typically platinum or iridium plugs).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for severe use, 60,000-100,000 miles for normal use (consult manual).

Engine Oil Type 3.7L/4.7L:

SAE 5W-20 (API certified, synthetic or synthetic blend recommended for optimal performance).

Engine Oil Type 5.7L Hemi:

SAE 5W-20 (API certified, synthetic or synthetic blend recommended).

Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:

Approx. 5 quarts

Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:

Approx. 6 quarts

Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:

Approx. 7 quarts

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (typically Mopar OAT or equivalent pink/orange coolant).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Issues 2005-2008:

Exhaust manifold leaks (cracked manifolds), premature wear on ball joints and tie rod ends, potential for ignition coil failure, intermittent electronic throttle control issues.

Common Issues 2009-2011:

Continued potential for exhaust manifold issues, some reports of transmission solenoid issues, water pump seal leaks, and HVAC system blower motor failures.

Hemi 5.7L Specific Issues:

Potential for valve seat wear ("hemi tick") under certain conditions; Lifter and camshaft wear issues are sometimes reported.

Cv Axle Boots:

Tearing of CV axle boots on front suspension, especially on 4WD models, leading to joint damage.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, dating back to the Dodge Power Wagon.

Third Generation Debut:

Redesigned for the 2005 model year with a more aggressive styling and improved chassis. Shared platform with Mitsubishi Raider.

Facelifts Updates:

Received a facelift for the 2009 model year with updated interior and exterior styling, and improved powertrains.

Production Locations:

Saltillo Truck Assembly, Coahuila, Mexico

Production Years Covered:

2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

End Of Production:

Production ceased after the 2011 model year for North American markets, with some residual models possibly sold as 2012.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

While not a winner, the Dodge Dakota has been a contender in the mid-size truck segment.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings have varied throughout the generation; consult specific year reports for detailed analysis.

Epa Fuel Economy:

EPA fuel economy ratings vary by engine and drivetrain. Typically in the range of 12-17 MPG city and 17-23 MPG highway.