Market Position:
The Dodge Dakota occupied a significant niche in the compact to mid-size pickup truck market, known for its strong V8 engine options and comfortable ride compared to some competitors.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Vehicle Highlights:
Available in Regular Cab and Club Cab configurations, rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) options, popular for its V8 power and towing capability in its class.
Value Proposition:
This workshop manual is an indispensable resource for Dodge Dakota owners and independent mechanics seeking to perform accurate diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs, saving money and ensuring proper vehicle function.
Engine Coverage:
3.9L V6 Magnum, 4.7L V8 Magnum, 5.9L V8 Magnum
Transmission Coverage:
42RE Automatic, 45RFE Automatic, NV3500 Manual, NV3550 Manual
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Exhaust, Fuel System, Cooling System
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring Diagrams, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System
Body Coverage:
Interior Trim, Exterior Panels, Glass, Doors, Seats, HVAC
Type:
Factory Authorized Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder heads, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling
Fuel And Emissions:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, evaporative emissions control (EVAP), exhaust system, catalytic converter
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, ABS system, hydraulic lines, parking brake
Suspension:
Independent front suspension (IFS), rear leaf spring suspension, shocks, struts, ball joints, control arms, sway bars
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, power steering pump
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system, lighting, horn, power windows, power locks
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant servicing
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake fluid flush
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), PCM relearn procedures
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, starter replacement, alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement
Installation Procedures:
Component installation, sensor replacement, accessory installation
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Format Details:
Professionally printed book with durable binding.
Print Quality:
High-resolution printing with clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
Stitched and glued for durability, designed for workshop use.
Paper Type:
Heavy-duty, glossy paper to resist grease and dirt.
Base Engine:
3.9L Magnum V6
3.9L V6 Specs:
Displacement: 3.9L (239 cu. in.), Horsepower: ~175-180 hp @ 4800 rpm, Torque: ~230-235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm, Configuration: OHV V6, Bore x Stroke: 3.66 x 3.57 in.
Optional Engine 1:
4.7L Magnum V8
4.7L V8 Specs:
Displacement: 4.7L (287 cu. in.), Horsepower: ~230-240 hp @ 4500-4800 rpm, Torque: ~295-300 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm, Configuration: OHV V8, Bore x Stroke: 3.70 x 3.31 in.
Optional Engine 2:
5.9L Magnum V8
5.9L V8 Specs:
Displacement: 5.9L (360 cu. in.), Horsepower: ~245-250 hp @ 4500 rpm, Torque: ~335-340 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm, Configuration: OHV V8, Bore x Stroke: 4.00 x 3.58 in.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engine variants.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 14-16 quarts (13.3-15.1 L) depending on engine and heater core.
Oil Capacity 3.9L:
5 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change (5W-30 recommended).
Oil Capacity 4.7L:
6 Quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change (5W-30 recommended).
Oil Capacity 5.9L:
7 Quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change (5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended).
Standard Transmission:
NV3500 5-Speed Manual (typically with V6 engines)
Optional Transmission 1:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic (typically with 3.9L V6)
Optional Transmission 2:
45RFE 4-Speed Automatic (typically with 4.7L and 5.9L V8)
Transmission Fluid 42Re:
ATF+4 (Mopar P/N 05013457AA or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid 45Rfe:
ATF+4 (Mopar P/N 05013457AA or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Gear oil, SAE 75W-90 API GL-3 or GL-4 (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant).
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Typically rated 4 out of 5 stars for rollover resistance (check specific model year for exact ratings).
Standard Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels, driver and passenger front airbags.
Passive Safety Features:
Front and side impact beams, three-point seat belts with pretensioners, child seat anchor points (LATCH).
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette or CD player. Optional Infinity speaker system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to ABS. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were available.
Connectivity Features:
Standard power accessories (windows, locks on higher trims), optional remote keyless entry.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-6,000 miles (4,800-9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific oil type and severe service intervals).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, using Mopar OAT coolant.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with recommended platinum plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with recommended platinum plugs.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN, SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions). Check manual for specific viscosity and API service category.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid (ensure compatibility).
Common Issues Trans Cooler:
Internal radiator failure leading to coolant mixing with transmission fluid (especially on 45RFE/454RFE transmissions). Replacement of radiator and complete transmission flush recommended.
Common Issues Ignition:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) coil packs can fail, causing misfires. Spark plug wires can also degrade.
Common Issues Suspension:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and ball joint boots can lead to steering looseness and premature tire wear.
Common Issues Electronics:
Power window regulators, BCM issues, and sensor failures (e.g., crankshaft position sensor) can occur.
Common Issues Exhaust:
Exhaust manifold cracks (especially on V8 engines) can cause ticking noises and exhaust leaks.
Dodge Truck Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, from the early Power Wagon to modern Ram trucks, establishing a reputation for durability and performance.
Dakota Second Gen Intro:
The second-generation Dakota (AN platform) was introduced for the 1997 model year and received a significant facelift for 2000, including revised styling and updated powertrains, making the 2000-2002 models part of this refined phase.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.
Production Years An Platform:
1997-2004
Pickup Truck Awards:
While specific awards for the 2000-2002 model years are less documented than modern vehicles, the Dakota was generally well-regarded for its V8 performance and comfort in its class during its production run.
Consumer Satisfaction General:
Often praised for its powertrain options, particularly the V8s, and comfortable ride quality for a pickup.
