Segment:
Compact to Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Manual Strength:
Comprehensive A-Z coverage, detailed diagrams, and focus on both mechanical and electrical repairs.
Vehicle Appeal:
Known for its V8 engine option (rare in its class at the time), comfortable ride, and utility.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system, emissions control.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM), sensors, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission service, repair, overhaul, clutch, torque converter, gear shifting mechanisms.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, axles, differentials, transfer case (if applicable).
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, steering gear, power steering system.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), anti-lock braking system (ABS), parking brake, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, accessory circuits.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, climate control.
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, frame straightening, corrosion repair, interior trim.
Chassis Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions, diagnostic connectors.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, tire rotation, brake inspection.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC interpretation, electrical circuit testing, fuel pressure testing.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.
Adjustment Procedures:
Alignment specifications, clutch adjustment, parking brake adjustment, idle speed adjustment.
Special Tools:
Identification of necessary special tools for specific repair procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds).
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting for both mechanical and electrical systems.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Abundant detailed pictures and diagrams supporting repair procedures.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
Good (for 2003 model year, typical for class)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
Good (for 2003 model year, typical for class)
ABS:
Standard on all models (2003)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-24,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8:
Approximately 100,000 miles (longer life plugs common in this era).
Engine Oil Type 4 7L V8:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Transmission Fluid 42Rle:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid 45Rfe:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, 5/50 Formula (Green) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology).
Common Issue Ignition:
Worn ignition coils, spark plugs, and plug wires (especially on older 4.7L models).
Common Issue Transmission:
Transmission solenoid issues, torque converter shudder (particularly on 42RLE).
Common Issue Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings.
Common Issue Exhaust:
Cracked exhaust manifolds on 4.7L V8 engines are a known issue.
