🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2009

Generation:

Third Generation (DS/DP/DC)

Generation Years:

2005-2011

Platform Code:

DS

Chassis Code:

DP (4x4), DC (4x2)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Mid-size pickup truck, competing in a segment with strong offerings from Ford (Ranger), Toyota (Tacoma), and Chevrolet (Colorado).

Competitive Analysis:

The 2009 Dakota offered a range of engine sizes, including V6 and V8 options, providing more power than some competitors in its class. It also featured more rugged styling cues often associated with larger trucks.

Key Features:

Available in Regular Cab, Club Cab, and Quad Cab configurations; choice of short and long bed lengths; powerful V8 engine options; available 4x4 drivetrain; robust towing and payload capacities for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete Service and Repair

Page Count:

N/A (Software, dynamic content)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, engine diagnostics (OBD-II), timing system, air intake system.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (42RLE, 45RFE/545RFE), manual transmission (NV3500, NV5600), clutch system, drivetrain, differentials (front and rear), transfer case (if applicable).

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake hydraulics, parking brake system.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (solid axle/leaf springs), steering system (power steering), steering linkage, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, wiring diagrams.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant handling.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, frame repair, corrosion prevention.

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seat belts, child seat anchors (LATCH), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, tire rotation and balancing, brake pad replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnosis, engine performance issues, transmission shifting problems.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (alternator, starter, water pump, thermostat), transmission overhaul and component replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints), exhaust system repair, fuel injector replacement, power steering pump replacement.

Rebuild Procedures:

Engine rebuilding, transmission rebuilding, differential overhaul.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

Diagnostic Tools:

Covers use of OBD-II scanners, multimeters, and specialized diagnostic equipment.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Digital software, typically executable or accessible via a web browser; often includes interactive diagrams, search functionality, and printable sections.

Print Quality:

N/A (Software-based, digital output can be printed to high quality).

Binding Type:

N/A (Software).

Paper Type:

N/A (Software).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

3.7L V6 Magnum

Engine Option 1 Displacement:

3.7 Liters (226 cu in)

Engine Option 1 Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Option 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Option 2:

4.7L V8 Magnum

Engine Option 2 Displacement:

4.7 Liters (287 cu in)

Engine Option 2 Horsepower:

230 hp @ 4500 rpm (early models), 255 hp @ 4500 rpm (later models)

Engine Option 2 Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (early models), 330 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (later models)

Engine Option 3:

5.7L V8 HEMI (High Output)

Engine Option 3 Displacement:

5.7 Liters (345 cu in)

Engine Option 3 Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine Option 3 Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron (3.7L, 4.7L), Aluminum (5.7L HEMI)

Engine Head Material:

Aluminum

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (42RLE) with 3.7L and 4.7L engines

Optional Transmission 1:

5-speed manual (NV3500) with 3.7L V6

Optional Transmission 2:

5-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE) with 4.7L V8 and 5.7L V8

Optional Transmission 3:

6-speed manual (NV5600) with 5.7L V8 HEMI (rare, often associated with specific performance trims)

Transmission Features:

Overdrive gear, electronic shift control, Tow/Haul mode (on automatic transmissions).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Bed:

116.2 inches (2952 mm)

Wheelbase Long Bed:

131.3 inches (3335 mm)

Overall Length Short Bed:

198.9 inches (5052 mm)

Overall Length Long Bed:

214.0 inches (5436 mm)

Width:

79.1 inches (2009 mm)

Height:

70.5 - 72.1 inches (1791 - 1831 mm) (depending on configuration)

Bed Length Short Bed:

6 feet (72.2 inches / 1834 mm)

Bed Length Long Bed:

6 feet 4 inches (76.2 inches / 1935 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 4,250 lbs (1928 kg)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 4,800 lbs (2177 kg)

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to 7,250 lbs (3289 kg) (with 4.7L or 5.7L V8 and proper configuration)

Max Payload Capacity:

Up to 1,300 lbs (590 kg) (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

Good (4-star rating)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

Good (4-star rating)

NHTSA Side Driver Impact:

Good (5-star rating)

NHTSA Side Passenger Impact:

Good (5-star rating)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (Top Safety Pick)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Trailer Sway Control (TSC).

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side-curtain airbags, front seat belt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchor system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available Uconnect infotainment system (depending on trim level), SiriusXM Satellite Radio, AM/FM stereo with CD player and MP3 capability.

Driver Assistance Features:

ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional), ParkSense Rear Park Assist System (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input jack, Bluetooth streaming audio (with Uconnect option).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specifications).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L:

Approximately 100,000 miles (uses platinum or iridium plugs).

Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L:

Approximately 100,000 miles (uses platinum or iridium plugs).

Spark Plug Replacement 5.7L:

Approximately 100,000 miles (uses platinum or iridium plugs).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (varies by transmission type and usage; consult manual).

Engine Oil Type 3.7L/4.7L:

SAE 5W-20 (API certified, meeting Chrysler MS-6395).

Engine Oil Type 5.7L:

SAE 5W-20 (API certified, meeting Chrysler MS-6395).

Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters)

Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:

6.0 US quarts (5.7 Liters)

Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:

7.0 US quarts (6.6 Liters)

Transmission Fluid Type 42Rle/45Rfe/545Rfe:

ATF+4 (Mopar specification, Chrysler MS-9602 or MS-7176).

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769 or MS-12106.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Known Issues Overview:

Common reported issues can include minor electrical gremlins (window motors, sensors), potential for exhaust manifold leaks on V8 engines, and occasional transmission shifting anomalies.

Common Issue Transmission:

Overdrive clutch failure in 45RFE/545RFE transmissions, especially under heavy use.

Common Issue Engine:

Crankshaft position sensor failure leading to stalling or no-start conditions.

Common Issue Brakes:

Premature wear of brake pads and rotors on some models.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Overview:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later FCA, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing trucks and performance vehicles. The Dakota nameplate was introduced in 1987 as a compact pickup.

Model Evolution Overview:

The first generation (1987-1996) was a compact pickup. The second generation (1997-2004) grew into the mid-size segment. The third generation (2005-2011), the subject of this manual, featured a significant redesign, new powertrains, and was built on a robust platform shared with Dodge Durango SUVs.

Production Start Year:

1987

Production End Year:

2011

Manufacturing Locations:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for frontal offset crash protection).

Kbb Best Resale Value:

Generally competitive for its segment at the time of release.