2003 Dodge Dakota Workshop Repair Manual

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🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 2003 Codes Platform Code: NS Generation Generation Identifier: Second Generation (AN/NS) Generation Years: 1997-2004 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact/Mid-size...

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Type: Truck

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Sku: 310061

Tags: 2003 Cars Dakota Dodge Misc Truck

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Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

Codes

Platform Code:

Generation

Generation Identifier:

Second Generation (AN/NS)

Generation Years:

1997-2004

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance, owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge

Competitive Analysis

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier

Key Features

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, empowering users to perform complex tasks accurately and efficiently.

Factory Vs Aftermarket:

Genuine factory data ensures accuracy, coverage, and procedures consistent with manufacturer specifications.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Primary Coverage:

Complete Workshop Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Lubrication, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Repair, Overhaul

Page Count

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language

Language:

English

Format

Format:

Digital (PDF) / Printed Copy (specifications depend on product listing)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, intake, fuel injection, turbocharging (if applicable)

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM), sensors, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, clutch service, manual transmission overhaul (RWD, 4WD variants)

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission identification, service procedures, torque converter, hydraulic system, valve body, electronic controls

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, U-joints, differential service, transfer case (4WD models)

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent, torsion bar), rear suspension (leaf springs), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, wheel bearings

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on configuration), hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake, brake rotor/pad replacement, caliper service

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rod ends, alignment specifications

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, trim, glass, seals, exterior lighting

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, interior trim, carpeting, headliner, airbags, HVAC controls

Electrical Chassis:

Lighting systems, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

Audio Chime:

Audio system service, speaker replacement, chime/buzzer system diagnosis and repair

Electronic Controls:

ECM/PCM diagnostics, sensor inputs, actuator outputs, data communication networks (e.g., CAN bus)

Procedures Included

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake pad/shoe inspection

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC interpretation, electrical circuit testing, fuel system pressure testing

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, adjustments, torque specifications for all fasteners

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed steps for overhauling engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major components

Specifications And Data:

All necessary technical data, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and torque values

Technical Depth

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full rebuilds and diagnostics)

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed electrical schematics, component testing procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts

Component Level:

Covers individual component repair and replacement, not just system-level information

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

Digital Format:

Searchable PDF with hyperlinked sections for easy navigation (typical for quality FSMs)

Printability:

High-resolution, printable pages suitable for workshop use

Print Quality

Image Clarity:

Clear diagrams, illustrations, and photographs (if applicable)

Binding Type

Binding For Printed:

Spiral-bound or lay-flat binding for easy use in a workshop environment (typical for aftermarket reprints)

Paper Type

Paper Quality For Printed:

Durable, high-quality paper designed to withstand shop conditions

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Options:

2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4, 3.7L (226 cu in) Magnum V6, 4.7L (287 cu in) Magnum V8

Engine Code I4:

2.5L (Exact code may vary by VIN sequence)

Engine Code V6:

3.7L Magnum (Exact code may vary by VIN sequence)

Engine Code V8:

4.7L Magnum V8 (P-Code: P)

Performance

2.5L I4 Horsepower:

Approx. 120-130 hp

2.5L I4 Torque:

Approx. 145-150 lb-ft

3.7L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 210-215 hp

3.7L V6 Torque:

Approx. 230-235 lb-ft

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approx. 235-240 hp

4.7L V8 Torque:

Approx. 295-300 lb-ft

Fuel System

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil-on-plug (COP) for 4.7L V8

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Manual Transmission:

NV3500 5-speed manual (standard on 2.5L and some 3.7L configurations)

Optional

Automatic Transmission:

42RE 4-speed automatic (standard on 4.7L V8, optional on 3.7L V6)

Automatic Transmission V8:

45RFE 4-speed automatic (used with some 4.7L V8 engines, later replaced by 545RFE)

Features

Drive Type:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) available

Transfer Case:

NV235 or NV244 (4WD models)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Wheelbase Standard:

111.7 inches (2837 mm)

Wheelbase Extended:

124.9 inches (3172 mm)

Body Style:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab)

Weights

Curb Weight Range:

3,500 - 4,200 lbs (approximate)

Payload Capacity Range:

1,300 - 1,700 lbs (approximate)

Towing Capacity Range:

Up to 6,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:

Good (4-star)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:

Good (4-star)

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Acceptable (variable by specific test year)

Active Features

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Traction Control:

Optional (often integrated with ABS)

Passive Features

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Audio System Features:

AM/FM stereo, cassette player, CD player (optional), speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Display Type:

Basic LCD or LED displays for radio and clock functions.

Driver Assistance

ABS Standard:

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Connectivity

Auxiliary Inputs:

Not typically available on base models, later models may have had optional aux jacks.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory in 2003

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Oil Change Interval:

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

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles)

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (check manual based on service type - severe vs. normal)

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (for most engines, consult manual for specific viscosity recommendations)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 quarts (4.7L) with filter, 4 quarts (2.5L/3.7L) with filter (verify in manual)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Orange) Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

ATF+4 (for 42RE, 45RFE, 545RFE)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (for NV3500)

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (verify for Limited Slip if equipped)

Known Issues

Common Issues Engine:

Head gasket leaks (especially early 4.7L), oil filter housing leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks

Common Issues Transmission:

Torque converter shudder, transmission fluid leaks, solenoid issues

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn ball joints, worn tie rod ends, sagging leaf springs

Common Issues Brakes:

Premature rotor warping, caliper sticking

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, known for their distinctive styling and performance.

Model Evolution

Second Generation Launch:

The second generation of the Dakota, codenamed NS, was introduced for the 1997 model year, featuring a significant redesign and introduction of the V8 engine option.

2003 Updates:

For 2003, minor updates might have been applied, but the core platform remained consistent with the previous years of the second generation. The 4.7L V8 became more prevalent.

Production

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While the 2003 model year may not have specific 'Truck of the Year' awards, the Dodge Dakota line consistently received praise for its V8 power and comfortable ride for its class during this generation.

Ratings

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Variable depending on specific model year and powertrain, often average to below average for this era.