Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, small repair shops, and Dakota owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Dakota Distinction:
Often praised for its V8 engine options and robust styling in its class.
Value Proposition:
Significant cost savings on repairs and maintenance compared to dealership or independent shop labor rates.
Accessibility:
Instant download format provides immediate access to repair information.
Ease Of Use:
Designed with step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations for a user-friendly experience.
Powertrain:
Engine (3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8), Fuel System, Emissions Control, Intake and Exhaust Systems, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Engine Control Module (ECM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual Transmissions (NV1500, NV3500), Automatic Transmissions (42RLE, 45RFE/545RFE), Clutch System, Driveshaft, Differentials (Rear Axle).
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System (Power Steering), Wheel Alignment, Brakes (including ABS, Rear Drum/Disc variations), Wheels and Tires.
Electrical Electronics:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, Power Accessories, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System), Wiring Diagrams for all circuits.
Body Interior Exterior:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Seats, Interior Trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Exterior Trim, Bumpers.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation.
Engine Repair:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head service, valve train adjustments, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft service, timing belt/chain procedures, oil pump service.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission removal/installation, internal component repair and replacement, clutch service, torque converter replacement, fluid and filter service.
Braking System:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum service, caliper and wheel cylinder repair, ABS system diagnosis and repair, brake bleeding.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting using wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) retrieval and interpretation, module testing and replacement.
HVAC Repair:
Refrigerant system diagnosis and service, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), blower motor service, control head repair.
Body Work And Trim:
Panel replacement, door adjustment, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation, bumper repair and replacement.
Depth Of Coverage:
Extensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance tasks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes specific diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying common and complex issues across all major vehicle systems.
Special Tools:
Identifies and describes the use of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Tightening Torques:
Provides precise torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Features detailed illustrations, exploded views, and diagrams to clarify repair steps and component locations.
Displacement:
3.7 Liters (226 cubic inches)
Configuration:
3.7L Magnum V6 (SOHC)
Horsepower Approx:
210-230 hp @ 5200-5800 rpm
Torque Approx:
235-245 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm
Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Displacement:
4.7 Liters (287 cubic inches)
Configuration:
4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC)
Horsepower Approx:
235-260 hp @ 4500-5000 rpm
Torque Approx:
295-325 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm
Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Cooling:
Pressurized Liquid Cooling System
Emission Controls:
Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), EGR (where applicable).
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual (NV1500 for V6, NV3500 for V8)
Transmission Type Opt:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE for V6, 45RFE/545RFE for V8)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 (Type 9602) or equivalent.
Transfer Case:
Available in 4x2 and 4x4 configurations. 4x4 models use a NV235 manual or NV244 NV (New Venture) with electronic shift-on-the-fly or manual transfer case.
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
Approximately 111.8 inches (2839 mm)
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
Approximately 124.8 inches (3170 mm)
Length Approx:
Varies by cab and bed configuration, typically 195-215 inches.
Width Approx:
Approximately 71.0-72.0 inches (1803-1829 mm).
Height Approx:
Approximately 65.0-66.0 inches (1651-1676 mm).
Curb Weight Approx:
3600-4200 lbs (1633-1905 kg), depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:
5300-5700 lbs (2404-2585 kg).
Bed Length Short Approx:
6.25 feet (75 inches)
Bed Length Long Approx:
8.0 feet (96 inches) (Less common for this generation)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 stars (for 2005 model year in typical testing).
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 stars (for 2005 model year in typical testing).
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
4 stars (for 2005 model year in typical testing).
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 stars (for 2005 model year in typical testing).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Optional (often linked with 4x4 or V8 models).
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger front airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional side-curtain airbags available on some trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts in all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs (check manual for specific type and interval).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; often around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years, using Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (for both 3.7L and 4.7L engines).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) for 3.7L V6; Approximately 6 quarts (5.7 liters) for 4.7L V8. Verify with dipstick and manual.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid.
Common Issue Ignition:
Coil-on-plug ignition system can develop misfires due to failing coil packs or spark plugs.
Common Issue Suspension:
Ball joints and tie rod ends can wear prematurely, leading to steering looseness and tire wear.
Common Issue HVAC:
Blend door actuators in the HVAC system can fail, causing temperature control issues.
Common Issue Powertrain 47L:
Early 4.7L V8s had some head gasket issues; later models were improved. Refer to manual for specific torque sequences if performing head work.
Common Issue Transfer Case:
Transfer case actuator or encoder motor issues can arise on 4x4 models, affecting engagement.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, dating back to the Dodge Power Wagon and Ram series.
Second Gen Updates 2005:
The 2005 model year brought significant updates, including a more aggressive exterior styling, a revised interior, and the introduction of the 3.7L Magnum V6 engine, replacing the older 3.9L V6. The 4.7L V8 also received updates.
Platform:
Shared platform with the Dodge Ram (full-size) for the second generation, contributing to its robust feel.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.