🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2010

Platform:

HG (Second Generation Dakota)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size pickup truck.

Target Audience:

Enthusiast DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair guidance.

Competitors 2010:

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

Manual Advantage:

Official licensing indicates a high degree of accuracy and completeness, often sourced directly from manufacturer data.

Digital Format Benefit:

Instant access, searchable content, easily updated or expanded information, portability.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair information for the 2010 Dodge Dakota.

Specific Systems:

Engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical system, HVAC, body, interior, diagnostics, and emissions.

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (Software-based, actual page count variable based on print settings; typically equivalent to 2000+ pages of printed material).

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary application).

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed specifications, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for all engine variants.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection, sensors, actuators, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair for the NV3500 5-speed manual transmission.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair for the 42RLE 4-speed automatic transmission.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle assemblies, driveshafts, universal joints, differential service, 4WD system operation and repair.

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (short/long arm), rear solid axle, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system diagnostics, hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, body control module (BCM), fuse and relay identification, wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (R-134a), heater core, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant charging information.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, trim components.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage.

Emissions:

Emission control systems, catalytic converter, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.

Maintenance Tasks:

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

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting for common and complex issues based on symptoms and DTCs.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated procedures for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.

Depth Level:

Professional-level diagnostics and repair, suitable for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic strategies including sensor data interpretation and actuator testing.

Rebuild Procedures:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions with detailed component specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Software Compatibility:

Compatible with most modern operating systems (Windows XP and later recommended).

Search Functionality:

Searchable text for quick access to information.

Multimedia:

Often includes diagrams, illustrations, and sometimes exploded views.

Printability:

Pages are typically printable for on-the-job use.

Binding:

N/A (Software - digital format).

Paper Quality:

N/A (Software - digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1 Displacement:

3.7L (3704cc)

Engine Option 1 Configuration:

Inline 5-cylinder (20-valve) PowerTech

Engine Option 1 Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Option 1 Horsepower Est:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Option 1 Torque Est:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Option 2 Displacement:

4.7L (4701cc)

Engine Option 2 Configuration:

V8 (16-valve) Magnum

Engine Option 2 Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Option 2 Horsepower Est:

255 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Option 2 Torque Est:

335 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Management:

Sentronic ( Chrysler's electronic control unit system)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Option 1:

NV3500 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Option 2:

42RLE 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transfer Case:

Electronic 4WD system available on some models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Std:

120.0 inches

Wheelbase Long:

131.3 inches (Quad Cab)

Length Std:

199.6 inches

Length Long:

210.9 inches (Quad Cab)

Bed Length Short:

6.1 ft

Bed Length Long:

8.0 ft

Curb Weight Est:

4,100 - 4,500 lbs (varies by configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (IIHS rating - though not directly NHTSA for this specific year/model, common for the class)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (IIHS rating)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Airbags Front:

Standard front driver and passenger airbags.

Airbags Side:

Available front seat-mounted side airbags.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available SIRIUS Satellite Radio, AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems.

Connectivity:

Auxiliary audio input jack.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Trailer Tow Prep:

Available trailer tow package, including wiring harness and hitch receiver compatibility.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gas:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) under normal driving conditions. Consult manual for severe conditions.

Engine Coolant Interval:

Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 60,000 miles thereafter.

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Check every 30,000 miles, replace as needed or every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on usage. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Oil Spec 3.7L:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or later (Chrysler MS-6395)

Engine Oil Spec 4.7L:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or later (Chrysler MS-6395)

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Part Number 05010083EA or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Lubricant (check manual for specific Mopar recommendation)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, SAE J1703 or J1704

Coolant Spec:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent (typically purple).

Common Issues Early Gen2:

While the 2010 model is toward the end of its generation, common issues across the second gen include potential for exhaust manifold leaks on V8 engines, minor electrical gremlins (e.g., window regulators), and premature wear on certain suspension components like ball joints.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Lineage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.

Dakota Generation 2:

The 2010 model is part of the second generation (code-named HG), which ran from 2005-2011. This generation was noted for offering V8 power in a mid-size package and was built on a unique frame shared with the Dodge Durango SUV.

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Kl City Driving Award:

The Dodge Dakota has historically been recognized for its V8 engine options providing strong performance in its class.