🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2003 Onward

Vehicle Platform:

Chrysler's SB platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, professional mechanics.

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.

Utility:

Known for its robust chassis and available V8 engines, offering strong towing and payload capabilities.

Versatility:

Available in regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab configurations with various bed lengths.

Value Proposition:

Often positioned as a more affordable alternative to some competitors, offering a good balance of performance and price.

📋 Manual Details

All Systems:

Yes, comprehensive coverage of all vehicle systems.

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and fluid specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic, ABS, and parking brake system diagnostics and repair.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and module repair.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering systems.

Body Chassis:

Body repair, interior trim, doors, windows, and chassis component service.

HVAC:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair.

Fuel Emissions:

Fuel delivery, evaporative emission control (EVAP), and exhaust systems.

Cooling:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan system service.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, spark plug service.

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic procedures and common fault finding.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, component replacement.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components.

Diagnostic Testing:

Testing procedures for sensors, actuators, and control modules.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, and measurement values for all components.

Depth:

Factory-level, professional technician grade detail.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using scan tools and specialized diagnostic equipment.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for hands-on workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 2.9L V6:

2.9L (177 cu in) Magnum V6, 180 hp @ 5000 rpm, 260 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Engine 3.7L V6:

3.7L (226 cu in) Magnum V6, 210 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 4.7L V8:

4.7L (285 cu in) Magnum V8, 230-245 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm, 290-325 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm

Engine 5.7L V8 Hemi:

5.7L (345 cu in) HEMI V8, 345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (introduced later in the generation)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) on most engines.

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Getrag A500 (4-speed automatic) standard on some early models; 5-speed manual available on some configurations.

Automatic Transmission:

42RLE (4-speed automatic) for V6 models; 45RFE/545RFE (4-speed automatic, later 5-speed) for V8 models.

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Electronic On-Demand 4-Wheel Drive (4WD).

Transfer Case:

NV135 (4WD models) or NV235 (4WD models) depending on configuration.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) or equivalent.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity depends on temperature, typically 75W-90).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by cab/bed configuration: 108.0 in (regular cab short bed) to 124.5 in (extended cab long bed).

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration (approx. 178.5 in to 213.8 in).

Overall Width:

Approx. 71.9 in.

Overall Height:

Approx. 65.0 in - 67.0 in (varies by 2WD/4WD and configuration).

Bed Lengths:

Short bed (approx. 6.1 ft), Long bed (approx. 7.4 ft).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,700 lbs - 4,600 lbs depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 5,500 lbs - 6,600 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Generally rated 4 out of 5 stars for rollover resistance for 2WD and 4WD models.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Airbags:

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

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory options included AM/FM radio with CD player, cassette player (early models), and optional Infinity speaker systems.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Power Outlets:

12V auxiliary power outlets in the cabin and on the dashboard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on engine oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles. Varies with driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type: copper plugs around 30,000-60,000 miles, platinum/iridium plugs up to 100,000 miles. Consult manual for specific engine/plug type.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Automatic transmission: typically every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual transmission: typically every 60,000-100,000 miles. Consult manual for specifics.

Engine Oil Type V6:

SAE 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend meeting Chrysler MS-6395. (Check manual for specific engine variant).

Engine Oil Type V8:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend meeting Chrysler MS-6395. (Check manual for specific engine variant).

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) meeting Chrysler MS-7170 or MS-9769, typically orange or red color. Consult manual for specific color/spec.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid meeting FMVSS 116.

Heater Core Leaks:

Some owners report premature failure of the heater core, leading to coolant leaks into the cabin.

Transmission Hard Shifting:

The 42RLE automatic transmission can sometimes exhibit hard shifts or delayed engagement. Solenoid issues or fluid quality can be contributing factors.

Front Suspension Wear:

Ball joints and tie rod ends can experience wear due to the truck's weight and typical use, requiring periodic inspection and replacement.

Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure:

Failure of the crankshaft position sensor can lead to stalling and no-start conditions.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the Power Wagon.

Generation Ii Dakota:

The 2005-2011 generation (often referred to as the '05+ Dakota) received a significant redesign, including a larger chassis, improved interior, and new engine options like the HEMI V8. The manual covers this significant update and onward.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production facility in Warren, Michigan, USA.

Production Span:

Second generation produced from model year 2005 through 2011.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Best Towing Capacity Segment:

The Dakota was often recognized for offering best-in-class towing capacity, especially with the V8 engines, making it a popular choice for light to medium-duty towing needs.

Consumer Reports:

Ratings varied by model year and specific configuration, with some model years receiving praise for powertrain and utility, while others noted average reliability.