🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2005

Body Style:

Mid-size Pickup Truck

Platform Code:

Second Generation (AN)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Dakota was a compact to mid-size pickup truck known for its balance of size, capability, and V8 engine options, often positioned as a more powerful alternative to smaller compact trucks and a more manageable option than full-size trucks.

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier

Vehicle Features:

Available in Regular Cab and Club Cab configurations, choice of bed lengths, powerful V8 engine options, available 4WD, distinctive Dodge styling.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete vehicle service, repair, and maintenance

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (4.7L V8, 3.7L V6), Transmission (42RLE Automatic, NV3500 Manual), Drivetrain (RWD, 4WD), Exhaust System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear Discs, ABS), Wheels, Tires, Frame

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrument Cluster, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors)

Body:

Interior & Exterior Trim, Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Glass, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, tire rotation, belt inspection, spark plug replacement

Repair:

Component removal and installation, engine assembly/disassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-to-cause analysis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, electrical system diagnostics

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, diagnostic data

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick information retrieval

Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear text and diagrams

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.7L Magnum V6 (PowerTech)

Engine 1 Displacement:

3701 cc (226 cu in)

Engine 1 Cylinders:

6

Engine 1 Valvetrain:

SOHC

Engine 1 Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)

Engine 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2:

4.7L Magnum V8 (PowerTech)

Engine 2 Displacement:

4701 cc (287 cu in)

Engine 2 Cylinders:

8

Engine 2 Valvetrain:

SOHC

Engine 2 Horsepower:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2 Torque:

305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

42RLE Automatic (4-speed)

Transmission 2:

NV3500 Manual (5-speed)

Transmission Features:

Overdrive gear on automatics, electronic control for automatic transmission, robust manual gearbox for off-road capability.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short:

111.7 inches (approx.)

Wheelbase Long:

124.7 inches (approx.)

Overall Length Short:

194.7 inches (approx.)

Overall Length Long:

217.7 inches (approx.)

Bed Length Short:

6.25 feet (approx.)

Bed Length Long:

8.0 feet (approx.)

Curb Weight V6:

4,100 - 4,500 lbs (approx.)

Curb Weight V8:

4,300 - 4,700 lbs (approx.)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,600 lbs (with V8 and proper towing package)

Payload Capacity:

Up to 1,700 lbs (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

Good (for 2005 models)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

Good (for 2005 models)

ABS:

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

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and front-passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Height-adjustable front seatbelts, pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (early models), and optional premium sound system. Basic digital display for radio and clock.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control

Power Accessories:

Optional power windows, power door locks, power mirrors

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type)

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 6,000-8,000 miles

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs)

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs)

Engine Oil Type:

API Certified SAE 5W-30 (or SAE 10W-30 for colder climates, consult manual)

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity V8:

6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-3 or GL-4 Gear Lubricant (e.g., SAE 75W-90)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems List:

Heater core leaks, ABS sensor failures, occasional transmission hard shifts (42RLE), exhaust manifold cracks (4.7L V8), fuel pump issues, water pump leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing robust and capable vehicles, including trucks.

Generation:

This manual covers the second generation (AN) Dodge Dakota, which ran from 1997 to 2004, with significant updates in 2001 that carried into the 2005 model year. Key updates included a more powerful V8 engine and revised styling.

Assembly Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

The Dodge Dakota, particularly the V8-equipped models, often received praise for its class-leading V8 power and towing capabilities during its production run.