🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1996

Market Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Body Styles Offered:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)

Drivetrain Options:

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

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (AN)

Platform Code:

AN

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Market Position:

The 1996 Dodge Dakota represented Dodge's entry into the newly evolving compact pickup truck segment, often competing with models like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet S-10.

Key Competitors 1996:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody

Manual Value Proposition:

The most complete service and repair manual for the 1996 Dodge Dakota, ideal for DIY enthusiasts, offering comprehensive coverage from bumper to bumper.

Vehicle Key Features 1996:

Offered a more car-like ride compared to older truck designs, featured updated styling, and provided a range of engine and drivetrain options. This generation also saw the introduction of optional V8 engines in later model years (though not typically for '96 base models).

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (exact number not provided, but described as 'most complete')

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Intake Manifold, Emission Control Systems

Drivetrain Systems:

Transmission, Differential and Driveline, Clutch

Chassis Systems:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Tires and Wheels, Frame and Bumpers

Electrical Systems:

Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel Systems, Audio Systems, Horn Systems, Vehicle Speed Control System, Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Systems, Wiper and Washer Systems, Lamps, Wiring Diagrams

Interior Systems:

Passive Restraint Systems, Power Lock Systems, Power Window Systems, Power Mirror Systems, Chime/Buzzer Warning Systems, Overhead Console Systems

HVAC Systems:

Heating and Air Conditioning

Body Systems:

Body

Maintenance Procedures:

Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Belt Inspections and Replacements, General Maintenance

Repair Procedures:

Component Diagnosis, Removal, Installation, Adjustment, Overhaul (for major systems)

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Procedures for Electrical, Mechanical, and HVAC Systems, Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable for the era)

Diagnostic Depth:

Advanced diagnostics for electrical systems, mechanical component testing, and system performance checks.

Rebuild Procedures:

Likely includes detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhauls, as well as sub-assembly rebuilds.

Specifications Accuracy:

High quality diagrams and instructions, implying precise specifications and procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Quality:

High quality diagrams and instructions

Printability:

All pages are printable

Searchability:

Implied by PDF format, likely allows keyword searching.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine:

2.5L (150 cu in) I4 (AMC 150 / Mopar 2.5L)

Available Engine:

3.9L (239 cu in) V6 (Mopar Magnum 3.9L)

2.5L Horsepower:

Approx. 122 hp @ 4800 rpm (Estimate, varies slightly by year/configuration)

2.5L Torque:

Approx. 145 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (Estimate)

3.9L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm (Estimate)

3.9L V6 Torque:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Estimate)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Code 2.5L I4:

AMC 150 / Mopar 2.5L (Check VIN for specific code)

Engine Code 3.9L V6:

Mopar Magnum 3.9L (EER/EGA variants common, check VIN)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Coil Pack (dependent on specific engine variant and year updates)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag/NVG 3500 for V6, possibly New Venture Gear for I4)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (Chrysler 42RE / 44RE)

Transmission Features:

Overdrive gear for fuel efficiency in automatic transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

Approx. 111.9 inches

Wheelbase Club Cab:

Approx. 124.7 inches

Bed Length Standard:

Approx. 6.5 ft (Short Bed)

Bed Length Long:

Approx. 8 ft (Long Bed - less common for this generation, but possible)

Curb Weight Base I4:

Approx. 3,100 - 3,500 lbs (Estimate, varies with configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by configuration, typically between 4,500 - 5,500 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings 1996:

Information for this specific model year is limited in modern databases; likely not subjected to the same rigorous testing standards as today.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - typically rear-wheel only, optional front-wheel ABS on some trims.

Passive Safety Features:

Three-point seat belts, energy-absorbing steering column, reinforced safety cage construction.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System 1996:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player might have been available on higher trims. Speakers typically located in doors and dash.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control was a common option. No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems (e.g., adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist) were available.

Connectivity Features:

No factory integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Auxiliary input for aftermarket audio devices might be present.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Engine Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Recommended every 50,000 - 75,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification 2.5L I4:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for precise viscosity based on ambient temperature).

Engine Oil Specification 3.9L V6:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for precise viscosity).

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler Formula A or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Atf:

ATF+3 or equivalent.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (specific weight varies, check manual).

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for specific differential type, e.g., limited-slip requiring additive).

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, exhaust components, brake pads/rotors, wheel bearings (especially on 4WD models).

Engine Specific Issues 3.9L V6:

Intake manifold gasket leaks, minor oil leaks are common as vehicles age. Lifter tick can occur.

Electrical System Issues:

Alternator issues, wiring harness degradation, power window motor failures, and instrument cluster problems were not uncommon in vehicles of this era.

Transmission Specific Issues:

Wear on manual transmission synchronizers, potential for automatic transmission solenoid or valve body issues with high mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, from the original Power Wagon to the Ram series.

Dakota Model Evolution To 1996:

The 1996 model year marked the second generation of the Dakota, a significant redesign that moved it into a more modern era with improved styling and a focus on a more refined driving experience compared to its predecessor. It was positioned as a mid-size option between the smaller compact trucks and the larger Ram pickups.

Manufacturing Plant:

Likely Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan or Toluca Assembly Plant, Mexico (common for Dodge/Chrysler products of this era).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards 1996:

While specific awards for the '96 Dakota aren't readily prominent, the second generation was generally well-received for its styling and ride quality within the compact truck segment.