Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance, enthusiasts.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Dakota Unique Selling Points:
Offered larger V8 engine options than many compact competitors in its class, often praised for its aggressive styling and robust chassis.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with the official, detailed procedures and specifications necessary for accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repair, saving time and money.
Coverage Scope:
Complete vehicle service and repair
Models Covered:
All 2005 Dodge Dakota models (including all trim levels and configurations)
Engines Covered:
All 2005 Dodge Dakota engine variants
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Official Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, overhaul, timing, cooling system, lubrication system
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case (if applicable), driveshafts, axles, differentials
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, disc and drum brake components, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system, alignment
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body controls, infotainment, power windows/locks
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components and operation
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, glass, bumpers
Chassis Frame:
Frame components, body mounts, corrosion protection
Maintenance Tasks:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, calibration
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing
Alignment Procedures:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic routines, including those requiring scan tools (though specific scan tool operations may be limited in a static PDF).
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text (depending on the OCR quality of the original document).
Print Readability:
High (designed for clear print reproduction).
Binding Type:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital format)
Transmission Option 1:
42RLE 4-speed Automatic (with 3.7L V6)
Transmission Option 2:
45RFE/545RFE 5-speed Automatic (with 4.7L V8)
Transmission Option 3:
NV3500 5-speed Manual (less common, usually with V6)
Transmission Fluid Spec 42Rle:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Spec 45Rfe/545Rfe:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transfer Case Availability:
Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
124.0 inches
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
140.5 inches
Overall Length Regular Cab:
198.9 inches
Overall Length Extended Cab:
215.5 inches
Bed Length Short:
71.7 inches
Bed Length Long:
91.7 inches
Curb Weight Approx:
4,000 - 4,600 lbs (varies by configuration)
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 6,400 lbs (with appropriate engine and configuration)
Payload Capacity Max:
Approx. 1,100 - 1,500 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for 2005 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for 2005 models)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable (for 2005 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Traction Control System (TCS) depending on trim/options.
Airbags Front:
Standard multi-stage front airbags for driver and passenger
Airbags Side:
Optional front seat-mounted side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system, satellite radio availability.
Navigation System:
Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard or available, depending on trim level.
Power Outlets:
12V auxiliary power outlets for accessories.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months, or as indicated by the Oil Change Indicator System. Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approximately 100,000 miles (using platinum or iridium plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approximately 100,000 miles (using platinum or iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Spec 3.7L/4.7L:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or later service classification, synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended for optimal performance and protection).
Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.
Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:
6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) 50/50 antifreeze/water mix. Recommended: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769).
Heater Core Leaks:
Some Dakota models of this era are known for premature heater core failure, leading to coolant leaks into the cabin.
Oxidized Paint:
Clear coat peeling or oxidation on the roof and hood is a common cosmetic issue.
Radiator Fan Clutch:
The fan clutch on V8 models can fail, leading to poor cooling performance.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
The rear main engine seal can develop leaks on higher mileage vehicles.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history in the truck market, dating back to the Dodge Power Wagon. The Dakota was introduced to fill a gap between smaller compact trucks and larger full-size pickups.
Second Generation Debut:
The second generation (AN platform) was introduced for the 1997 model year, and the 2005 model represents a significant refresh of this generation.
2005 Refresh Highlights:
Updated exterior styling (grille, headlights, bumpers), revised interior, updated engine options (especially the new 4.7L V8 with improved power).
Production Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1987-2011 (across three generations)