🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2005

Platform:

Chrysler ST platform (second generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size pickup truck, competing with models like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevrolet Colorado.

Key Selling Points:

Renowned for its optional V8 engine (a rarity in its class at the time), robust coil-spring rear suspension (on some configurations), and distinctive Dodge styling.

Vehicle Type:

Compact to mid-size pickup truck

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab), and Quad Cab (four-door crew cab).

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and selectable four-wheel drive (4WD).

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

Dodge Dakota 2005 (all configurations, including 2WD and 4WD)

Page Count:

Extensive (precise count not provided, but typical for a full service manual)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair, timing, valve train, cooling system, lubrication system, starting system, charging system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel system (injection, delivery, evaporative emissions), ignition system, exhaust system, emission controls, engine diagnostics.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic and manual transmission overhaul, repair, torque converter, drive shafts, differentials, axle shafts, CV joints.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, master cylinder, power booster, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake pads, rotors, drums, parking brake, ABS system.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, steering linkage, power steering system, alignment procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control modules, multiplexing.

Body Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, bumpers, glass, structural repairs, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostics, repair.

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module, diagnostics and replacement.

Preventive Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for various systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair Replacement:

Detailed instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components and systems.

Specifications Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearance measurements, material specifications, and critical tolerances for engine, chassis, and body components.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and complete overhaul procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text-based PDF for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

Designed for clear printing of text, diagrams, and illustrations.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

3.7L Magnum V6

Engine Option 1 Displacement:

3701 cc

Engine Option 1 Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 3 valves per cylinder (SOHC-like design but still OHV block)

Engine Option 1 Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Option 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Option 2:

4.7L Magnum V8

Engine Option 2 Displacement:

4701 cc

Engine Option 2 Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine Option 2 Horsepower:

230 hp @ 4800 rpm (early 2005), 235 hp @ 4800 rpm (later 2005 with updated cam)

Engine Option 2 Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (early 2005), 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (later 2005)

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (42RLE) for V6 and V8 models

Optional Transmission 1:

5-speed manual (NV3500) for V6 models

Transmission Fluid V6 Auto:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid V8 Auto:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

124.2 inches (3155 mm)

Overall Length:

200.7 inches (5100 mm)

Overall Width:

79.7 inches (2024 mm)

Overall Height:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Bed Length Short:

6.1 feet (73.2 inches)

Bed Length Long:

8.0 feet (96.2 inches) (available on some configurations)

Curb Weight V6 Rwd:

Approximately 4,060 lbs (1842 kg)

Curb Weight V8 4Wd:

Approximately 4,530 lbs (2055 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,650 lbs (3016 kg) with V8 and proper towing package.

Payload Capacity:

Up to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

Five-star rating (for 2005 model year)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

Five-star rating (for 2005 model year)

IIHS Offset Frontal Impact:

Good (for 2005 model year)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system (TCS)

Airbags:

Standard front airbags for driver and passenger.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Base AM/FM radio with CD player. Optional premium audio systems with cassette and CD changers available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by 2005 standards. ABS is standard. Optional rear parking assist sensors may have been available.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity features common in modern vehicles. Optional satellite radio.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) with premium iridium plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) with premium iridium plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), or per severe service schedule.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (synthetic recommended for V8) meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification.

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity V8:

6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically HOAT (Hybrid OAT) pink or orange Mopar antifreeze.

Common Issues:

Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), power steering pump leaks, ignition coil failures, catalytic converter issues, some electrical glitches, potential for rear axle seal leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history of producing robust trucks and performance vehicles.

Generation:

Second Generation (2002-2005)

Key Changes 2005:

Updated styling, improved interior, introduction of the Quad Cab body style, enhanced powertrain options including the 4.7L Magnum V8 with improved output, and availability of a 5-speed manual for V6 models.

Manufacturing Location:

Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Awards:

While not always a specific award winner, the Dakota's availability of a V8 engine in the mid-size segment was a significant market advantage, often praised by automotive reviewers for its power and towing capability compared to 4-cylinder and V6 competitors.