🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

1996

Vehicle Type:

Pickup Truck

Generation Code:

AN

Chassis Code:

AN

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Dakota 1996 occupied the compact to mid-size pickup truck segment, known for its robust build and availability of V8 engines, a rarity in its class at the time.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, and Toyota Tacoma. The Dakota differentiated itself with its optional V8 engines and more substantial feel.

Features:

Available in regular and club cab configurations, rear-wheel drive or 4WD, and a range of engine options including a potent 5.2L V8. Known for its truck-like ride and capabilities.

Purpose:

To provide comprehensive, authoritative guidance for the repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the 1996 Dodge Dakota for professional technicians and DIY enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Trims Engines:

Yes

Transmission Types Covered:

All

Estimated Pages:

Over 1500

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul, repair, and diagnostics for all engine variants.

Engine Performance:

Tuning, fuel delivery, ignition systems, emissions control.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, axles, driveshafts, differentials.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, linkage, diagnosis.

Brakes:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS system, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinder.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, fuses, relays.

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, rust treatment, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, chassis.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, pump, injectors, lines, emissions control.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers.

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, coolant specifications.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Comprehensive diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, DTCs (if applicable).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection.

Major Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, piston and ring service, camshaft and valve train overhaul.

Transmission Rebuild:

Detailed steps for disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling both manual and automatic transmissions.

Brake System Overhaul:

Rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, drum brake adjustment, brake bleeding.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Alternator, starter, ignition coil, sensors, ECU replacement.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Ball joints, control arms, tie rods, struts, shocks.

Body Panel Replacement:

Fender, door, hood, tailgate replacement and alignment.

HVAC System Repair:

Compressor, evaporator, condenser replacement, refrigerant recharge, leak detection.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Special Tool Requirements:

Identification of specialized tools needed for specific repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive; from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Likely searchable text-based PDF.

Quality:

High resolution, designed for clear viewing and printing.

Binding:

Not applicable (PDF download).

Paper:

Not applicable (PDF download).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (150 cu in)

Engine 1 Configuration:

Inline-4

Engine 1 Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 2 Displacement:

3.9 Liters (239 cu in)

Engine 2 Configuration:

30-degree V6

Engine 2 Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 3 Displacement:

5.2 Liters (318 cu in)

Engine 3 Configuration:

Small-Block V8

Engine 3 Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 1 Horsepower Est:

125 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 1 Torque Est:

145 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Engine 3 Horsepower Est:

230 hp @ 4800 rpm

Engine 3 Torque Est:

295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Optional Type:

4-Speed Automatic (A500/42RE for V6/V8)

4Wd Availability:

Available with both manual and automatic transmissions.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Lubricant

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Bed:

111.9 inches

Wheelbase Long Bed:

124.9 inches

Overall Length Short Bed:

197.0 inches

Overall Length Long Bed:

210.0 inches

Bed Length Standard:

6.5 ft

Bed Length Long:

8.0 ft

Curb Weight Est Min:

3,500 lbs

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est Max:

5,300 lbs

Towing Capacity Est Max:

6,000 lbs (with V8 and proper equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver Est:

Not rated (vehicle predates comprehensive modern testing standards)

IIHS Small Overlap Frontal Rating Est:

Not rated (vehicle predates modern testing standards)

ABS:

Available on rear wheels, optional 4-wheel ABS on some models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

Seatbelts:

Front: 3-point shoulder/lap belts. Rear (Club Cab): Lap belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player available.

Speakers:

Typically 2 or 4 speakers depending on trim and cab configuration.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most trims.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (severe service), 6,000 miles or 6 months (normal service).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type and engine.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Engine Oil Type 25L:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30

Engine Oil Type 39L 52L:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (preferred in colder climates) or 10W-30

Engine Oil Capacity 25L:

4.5 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 39L:

5.0 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 52L:

5.0 quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, meeting Chrysler MS-7170 specifications.

Common Problem 1:

Radiator leaks and over-heating issues, especially with the 5.2L V8.

Common Problem 2:

Transmission problems, particularly with the 42RE automatic transmission (e.g., torque converter shudder, clutch pack wear).

Common Problem 3:

Ignition system component failures (e.g., distributor, ignition coil).

Common Problem 4:

Corrosion on brake lines and fuel lines, especially in rust-belt regions.

Common Problem 5:

desgaste de las juntas del eje de transmisión (Drive shaft seal wear).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Dakota represented an expansion into the growing compact/mid-size pickup market.

First Generation Start:

1987

Second Generation Start:

1997

1996 Model Year Significance:

The 1996 model year was part of the first generation of the Dodge Dakota, receiving minor updates leading up to the major redesign for 1997.

Manufacturing Location Primary:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

Production Years First Gen:

1987-1996

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

While specific awards for the '96 model year are not widely documented, the Dodge Dakota line generally received praise for its V8 engine option and its positioning between compact and full-size trucks.