🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Model Generation Covered:

2000-onwards (This implies coverage potentially extends beyond 2000, encompassing subsequent generations and facelifts of the Dakota up to its discontinuation. Specific year range needs to be confirmed by the manual itself, but the product title suggests broad coverage).

Vehicle Platform:

Chrysler ND (Second Generation), potentially P2 (Third Generation) depending on the specific 'onwards' cutoff.

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, fleet maintenance personnel, and Dodge Dakota owners seeking in-depth repair and maintenance knowledge.

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/S-10, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.

Value Proposition:

Comprehensive technical data, detailed repair procedures, diagnostic information, and maintenance schedules designed to enable owners and technicians to perform all necessary service and repairs on their Dodge Dakota.

Uniqueness:

Covers a broad range of model years ('onwards') and likely multiple engine/drivetrain configurations, offering a singular resource for a wide spectrum of Dakota vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Markets:

North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)

Geographic Coverage:

Details specific to Dodge Dakota models sold in North America.

Estimated Pages:

Variable (Likely 2000+ pages for comprehensive coverage of multiple model years and engine options. Actual count depends on the scope of 'onwards').

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Instant Download (Likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (2.5L I4, 3.7L V6 Magnum, 4.7L V8 Magnum, 5.7L V8 HEMI), Engine control systems (ECM/PCM diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition, emissions), Transmission (4-speed automatic 42RE, 44RE, 45RFE, 46RE, 47RE, 48RE; 5-speed manual NV3500, NV3550, G56), Drivetrain (transfer case, differentials, axles, driveshafts, CV joints).

Chassis:

Suspension (front independent short/long arm - SL/I, rear solid axle leaf springs), Steering (power rack and pinion, power steering system), Brakes (front disc, rear drum or disc, ABS, EBD, brake system hydraulics, parking brake).

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, HVAC controls, safety systems (airbags, seatbelt pretensioners).

Body:

Body construction (frame, unibody depending on generation), exterior panels (doors, hood, tailgate, fenders), interior trim, seats, glass, seals, bumpers, accident repair, collision damage information.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, belt and hose inspection/replacement, battery maintenance.

Repair:

Engine component overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (ball joints, control arms, shocks), steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair and replacement, HVAC system repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation and resolution, electrical system diagnosis, engine performance analysis, transmission shift concerns, brake system malfunctions.

Technical Data:

Torque specifications, alignment procedures, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive - From routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics and body repair. Covers factory-level repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (if original scanned source was good), enabling quick access to specific topics.

Quality:

Variable (Depends on the source scan. Expect clear diagrams, text, and illustrations if professionally compiled).

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2000S:

2.5L I4 (AMC/Chrysler), 3.7L V6 Magnum, 4.7L V8 Magnum, 5.7L V8 HEMI (introduced in later years).

Engine Identifier Example:

4.7L V8 Magnum (e.g., P code in VIN for 2000-2003 models).

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 120 hp (2.5L I4) to 345 hp (5.7L HEMI), depending on year and engine variant.

Torque Range:

Approx. 150 lb-ft (2.5L I4) to 375 lb-ft (5.7L HEMI), depending on year and engine variant.

System Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) / Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 87 minimum, higher recommended for HEMI models).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 45RFE) or 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., NV3500/NV3550) depending on model year and configuration.

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 42RE, 44RE, 46RE, 47RE, 48RE) or 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., G56 for later models).

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4x4 (4WD) with available transfer cases (e.g., NP231, NP241).

Fluid Type Automatic:

Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent).

Fluid Type Manual:

GL-3 or GL-4 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (specific type varies by transmission model).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Typically 111.9 inches (Short Wheelbase) and 124.9 inches (Long Wheelbase) for 2nd gen. Later generations may vary.

Overall Length:

Approx. 192.3 inches (Short Wheelbase) to 216.3 inches (Long Wheelbase), varies by generation and configuration.

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Club Cab (extended cab), Quad Cab (crew cab on later models).

Bed Lengths:

Short Bed (approx. 6 feet), Long Bed (approx. 8 feet).

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,500 lbs to 4,500 lbs, depending on configuration and engine.

Towing Capacity:

Varies significantly by engine, drivetrain, and axle ratio. Can range from approximately 3,000 lbs to over 7,000 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

Varies by year and specific crash test. Generally good for its class for certain tests.

IIHS Ratings:

Varies by year. Expect Good to Acceptable ratings in frontal and side impact tests for later models.

ABS:

Standard on most models from 2000 onwards.

Traction Control:

Available on some models/trims, especially with V8 engines.

Electronic Stability Control:

Available on later model years, particularly third generation.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side airbags and curtain airbags available on later models/trims.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base AM/FM stereo, optional CD player, optional premium sound systems (Infinity).

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation systems available on higher trims, particularly in later generations.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Available on some later models for connecting external audio devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific year.

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles for most Magnum engines, higher for some HEMI variants. Consult specific engine data.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on load and conditions. Manual transmission fluid checks are more frequent.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SN or SP certified, SAE 5W-20 (most engines) or 5W-30 (some V8s), check manual for specific viscosity.

Coolant Specification:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) 50/50 coolant/distilled water mix. Color is typically orange or pink.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 motor vehicle brake fluid.

Engine Vibration 3.7L:

Some owners report harmonic balancer issues causing engine vibration, particularly at idle.

4.7L V8 Oil Sludge:

Early 4.7L Magnum engines could be prone to oil sludge if oil changes were neglected. Regular maintenance is critical.

Transmission Hard Shifting:

Some automatic transmissions can develop hard shifting or slipping issues, often related to solenoids, valve body, or fluid degradation.

Radiator Leaks:

Plastic-tank radiators can develop leaks over time, especially at the seam between the plastic tank and the aluminum core.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history in the pickup truck market, with models like the D-Series and Ram establishing a strong reputation for durability and power.

Generation 2:

2000-2004 (ND platform). Significant redesign from the first generation. Offered with 4.7L V8 Magnum as a key engine. Known for its relatively car-like ride for a pickup.

Generation 3:

2005-2011 (P2 platform, shared with Mitsubishi Raider). Major redesign, larger dimensions, availability of the 5.7L HEMI engine. Improved interior and styling.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

Discontinuation:

Production ceased in 2011, following Chrysler's restructuring.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Typical Segment Awards:

While specific awards for the Dakota are less common than for larger trucks, it was often recognized for value and capability within its segment.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Varies by model year. Generally mixed to average ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction compared to some competitors.

Emissions Standards:

Complies with EPA and CARB emissions standards for its respective model years.