Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Nissan Frontier
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables comprehensive self-service, troubleshooting, and repair, reducing reliance on dealerships and increasing vehicle longevity.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including symptom identification, fault code interpretation, and component testing.
Engine Types Covered:
2.5L I4, 3.9L V6, 4.7L V8, 5.7L V8 HEMI
Transmission Types Covered:
4-speed Automatic (42RE, 45RFE, 48RE), 5-speed Manual (NV3500, NV4500)
Drivetrain Covered:
RWD, 4WD
Body Styles Covered:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab), Quad Cab (Crew Cab)
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels including ST, SLT, Sport, Laramie, TRX, SXT, etc. (as applicable by year)
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (digital format, comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Digital Workshop Repair Manual
File Format:
Digital (likely PDF, HTML, or proprietary format)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmission diagnosis and repair, transfer case operation and repair, driveshaft, differentials, axles
Chassis Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheel bearings
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, testing procedures
Repair Rebuild:
Component removal, installation, and overhaul procedures for all major systems
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic service to complete overhaul and diagnostics
Base Engine 2000:
2.5L I4 Magnum (MPFI)
Mid Engine Option 2000:
3.9L V6 Magnum (MPFI)
Popular Engine Option:
4.7L V8 Magnum (MPFI)
Performance Engine Option:
5.7L V8 HEMI Magnum (introduced later in the generation)
2.5L I4 Horsepower:
Approx. 122 hp @ 5200 rpm
3.9L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 230-235 hp @ 4800 rpm
5.7L V8 Hemi Horsepower:
Approx. 345 hp @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (NV3500)
Optional Transmission Early:
4-speed Automatic (42RE)
Optional Transmission Later:
4-speed Automatic (45RFE/48RE)
Optional Manual Transmission:
5-speed Manual (NV4500 heavy duty)
Transfer Case:
Electronic Shift-on-the-fly (ESOF) 4WD system available
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Generally 4-star rating for rollover resistance (check specific model year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (check specific engine and oil type recommendations in manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine, but often around 60,000 - 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type 4.7L:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Transmission Fluid Type 45Rfe:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) - Orange
Common Issue Intake Manifold:
Cracked plastic intake manifold on some 4.7L V8 engines can lead to vacuum leaks and rough running.
Common Issue Transmission Slipping:
Early automatic transmissions can experience slipping or hard shifting due to worn clutch packs or valve body issues.
Common Issue Death Wobble:
Front suspension (especially ball joints and steering components) wear can lead to 'death wobble' at speed.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the Dakota filling the niche between smaller compact trucks and larger full-size pickups.
Second Generation Launch:
Second generation (2000-2004) introduced a significant redesign, moving to the Chrysler SBX platform, featuring a more aggressive styling and improved interior.
Third Generation Launch:
Third generation (2005-2011) saw further updates, including the introduction of the powerful 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, a revised exterior, and updated interior features.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan
