Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, amateur mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance, owners seeking in-depth vehicle knowledge.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Vehicle Strengths:
Renowned for its robust Magnum engines, available V8 power in a compact truck class, comfortable ride for a pickup, and versatile cabin options.
Covered Models:
All 2003 Dodge Dakota models, including various cab configurations (Regular Cab, Club Cab, Quad Cab) and bed lengths.
Estimated Pages:
Over 2000 pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual).
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (4.7L Magnum V8, 3.9L Magnum V6, 2.5L Magnum L4), Transmission (42RE Automatic, NV3500 Manual), Transfer Case (4x2, 4x4 models), Driveline, Exhaust.
Chassis:
Suspension (front independent, rear solid axle), Steering, Brakes (ABS, disc/drum configurations), Wheels, Tires.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system schematics, lighting, power accessories, instrumentation, ignition system, charging system, starter system, body control modules, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior trim, safety restraints (airbags), glass replacement, body repair procedures.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), lubrication, tire rotation, battery service, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild/replacement, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical diagnostics and repair, HVAC system service, body panel repair, exhaust system repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, use of diagnostic scan tools, interpretation of DTCs.
Special Procedures:
Wheel alignment specifications, torque specifications for all fasteners, refrigerant handling, safety precautions, vehicle lifting procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Options:
2.5L Magnum L4 (120 hp @ 5000 rpm, 150 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm), 3.9L Magnum V6 (175 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm), 4.7L Magnum V8 (235 hp @ 4800 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm).
Horsepower Range:
120-235 hp
Torque Range:
150-300 lb-ft
Induction Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Bore Stroke 4.7L:
3.70 in x 3.43 in
Compression Ratio 4.7L:
8.7:1
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (NV3500 for V6/V8), 4-speed automatic (42RE for V6/V8).
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (45RFE for 4.7L V8).
Drive Modes:
2WD (RWD), 4WD (part-time with electronic engagement).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
MS-9224 (Synchromesh Fluid)
Wheelbase Options:
111.7 inches (Regular Cab), 131.3 inches (Club Cab/Quad Cab)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 feet, 8.0 feet
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,700 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,800 lbs (with 4.7L V8 and proper towing package)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2003 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2003 model year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seat belts on applicable models.
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player, optional Infinity speaker system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, electronically controlled.
Power Accessories:
Optional power windows, power door locks, power mirrors on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles for V8 (platinum), 60,000 miles for V6 (copper/platinum).
Engine Oil Type 4.7L:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:
5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent.
Tcm Failure Automatic:
Transmission Control Module (TCM) issues can lead to shifting problems, especially in early models. Repair/replacement is often required.
Manifold Cracks 4.7L:
Cracked exhaust manifolds on the 4.7L V8 are a common issue, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises.
Heater Core Leaks:
Leaks from the heater core can cause coolant loss and fogged windows. Accessing the heater core requires dashboard disassembly.
Rust Body Panels:
Rust can form on wheel arches, cab corners, and rocker panels, particularly in rust-belt regions.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, from the original Power Wagon to the Ram series.
Second Generation An:
The 2003 Dakota is part of the second generation (AN platform), introduced in 1997. This generation was notable for being the first domestic compact/mid-size pickup to offer a V8 engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.
Production Period:
1997-2004 (for AN platform).
Truck Of The Year Nominations:
While not a primary award winner, the Dakota consistently ranked well in its segment for its V8 option and overall value proposition during its production years.
Consumer Satisfaction Perception:
Generally viewed as a capable and powerful compact/mid-size truck, with the V8 offering a distinct advantage over competitors.
