Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma.
Vehicle Strengths:
Powerful V8 engine option, comfortable ride for a truck, attractive styling, good towing capacity for its class.
Manual Advantage:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, empowering owners and independent shops.
Powertrain:
Engine (3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8), Transmission (42RLE Automatic, NV3500 Manual), Drivetrain (RWD, 4WD).
Chassis:
Suspension (Front Independent, Rear Leaf Spring), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc variations).
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Instrument Cluster, Lighting, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt and hose inspections, spark plug replacement.
Repair:
Engine component removal and installation, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit testing, component testing procedures.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine 1:
3.7L Magnum V6 (SOHC)
Engine 1 Displacement:
3701 cc (225.9 cu in)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 85.8 mm (3.78 in x 3.38 in)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
9.7:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2:
4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC)
Engine 2 Displacement:
4701 cc (286.8 cu in)
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
93.0 mm x 86.0 mm (3.66 in x 3.39 in)
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
9.1:1
Engine 2 Horsepower:
230 hp @ 4600 rpm (early models), 235 hp @ 4600 rpm (later models)
Engine 2 Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (early models), 305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (later models)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
Engine Control:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (Driver), 4/5 stars (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5/5 stars (Front Passenger)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Standard front airbags; optional side curtain airbags on some models.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point seat belts with pretensioners; rear 3-point seat belts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity speaker system available.
Display:
Basic dashboard display for odometer, trip meter, fuel level, and warning lights. No integrated infotainment screen.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Parking Assistance:
No factory parking sensors or backup cameras typically offered for this model year.
Auxiliary Input:
No standard auxiliary audio input; aftermarket solutions may exist.
Power Outlets:
12V accessory power outlets.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months for severe service; 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months for normal service (consult manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
4.7L V8: Every 100,000 miles (original plugs). 3.7L V6: Every 60,000 miles (original plugs). Use recommended type.
Engine Oil V6:
5W-20 (API Certified)
Engine Oil V8:
5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Certified)
Coolant:
MOPAR OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (MS-9769)
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links (due to truck usage).
Engine V8 Considerations:
Oil filter housing leaks, oil sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected on the 4.7L V8.
Transmission Considerations:
42RLE transmission can be sensitive to fluid condition and heat; regular fluid changes are crucial.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and capable trucks, dating back to the Power Wagon.
Second Gen Introduction:
The second generation (AN platform) was introduced for the 2002 model year, featuring a complete redesign and updated powertrains.
2005 Updates:
Minor updates for 2005, potentially including minor interior trim changes or feature packaging adjustments. Engine options remained the same.
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo, Mexico
Segment Performance:
Often praised for its V8 power and comfortable ride compared to some competitors in its class during its production run.
Consumer Reviews General:
Generally positive consumer feedback for its utility and engine options, though some common truck wear-and-tear issues are reported.
Manual Certification:
Factory-level technical documentation, considered the authoritative source for repair and maintenance.
