🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2002

Platform:

Second Generation (AN)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Key Competitors:

Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Nissan Frontier.

Vehicle Strengths At Launch:

Unique styling, comfortable interior for its class, available V8 engine option (a segment differentiator), good towing capacity for its size.

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive students, and enthusiasts looking for in-depth technical knowledge.

Benefits Of Factory Manual:

Provides the same level of detail and accuracy as used by dealership technicians, ensuring correct procedures and specifications, which can prevent costly mistakes and improve repair quality.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Driveline, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS & Non-ABS), HVAC, Electrical System, Body Controls, Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Body Control Modules (BCM), SRS (Airbags), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Chassis Components, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams.

Page Count:

Extensive (typically 1,500+ pages for a complete factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely digital format (PDF) for distribution, mirroring dealership service information systems.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanics:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, valve adjustments, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/bearing service, cylinder head repair, and more for all applicable engine variants.

Transmission Service:

Complete overhaul instructions for both automatic (e.g., 42RE, 45RFE) and manual transmissions, including component identification, torque specifications, fluid capacities, and diagnostic tests.

Drivetrain And Axles:

Service procedures for rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, including differential overhaul, axle shaft replacement, driveshaft balancing, and universal joint service.

Suspension And Steering:

Detailed instructions for front and rear suspension component replacement (ball joints, control arms, shocks/struts, springs), wheel bearing service, steering gear repair, and power steering system diagnostics.

Brake System:

Comprehensive coverage of brake system maintenance and repair, including disc brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, drum brake adjustment, brake fluid bleeding, ABS system diagnostics, and parking brake adjustments.

Electrical And Wiring:

Extensive electrical system coverage with detailed wiring diagrams, component location charts, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, fuse and relay identification, lighting system repair, starter/alternator service, and power window/lock motor replacement.

HVAC System:

Service and repair procedures for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant recharging, compressor replacement, condenser/evaporator service, and blower motor troubleshooting.

Body And Interior:

Procedures for body panel alignment, door mechanism repair, interior trim removal/installation, seat adjustment mechanisms, and basic bodywork.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, including engine performance, electrical faults, and transmission problems.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotation, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, and belt inspections.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems, including detailed torque specifications and special tool requirements.

Diagnostic Trouble Code Diagnosis:

Detailed explanations of DTCs, their potential causes, and recommended diagnostic procedures using scan tools.

Alignment And Balancing:

Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment and tire balancing.

Recalibration And Programming:

Information related to module recalibration and programming, essential for electronic system repairs.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and chassis component overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital (PDF) - searchable and printable.

Print Quality:

High-resolution images and clear text, ensuring readability for diagrams and instructions.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L MAGNUM (AMC I4), 3.7L MAGNUM (Chrysler/Dodge V6), 4.7L MAGNUM (Dodge V8).

2 5L Power:

Approx. 120-130 hp

3 7L Power:

Approx. 210-215 hp

4 7L Power:

Approx. 230-240 hp

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on engine.

Coolant Type:

OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent.

Oil Capacity 3 7L:

Approx. 6 US quarts (5.7 L) with filter change.

Oil Type 3 7L:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Synthetic Blend.

Oil Capacity 4 7L:

Approx. 7 US quarts (6.6 L) with filter change.

Oil Type 4 7L:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Synthetic Blend.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Offered:

Manual transmission was available on some trims, typically with the 4-cylinder and V6 engines.

Automatic Transmission Options:

42RE (3-speed automatic with overdrive for 2.5L/3.7L), 45RFE (4-speed automatic for 3.7L/4.7L).

Transmission Fluid Type 42Re:

ATF+4 (MS-9602 or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Type 45Rfe:

ATF+4 (MS-9602 or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Re:

Approx. 10-11 US quarts (9.4-10.4 L) with converter.

Transmission Fluid Capacity 45Rfe:

Approx. 10-11 US quarts (9.4-10.4 L) with converter.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 124.0 inches (3150 mm) for Quad Cab, 114.2 inches (2901 mm) for Regular Cab.

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration, typically around 200-210 inches.

Bed Length:

Available in 6.25 ft (75 inches) and 8 ft (96 inches) configurations.

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration, typically ranging from 3,800 to 4,500 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

NHTSA reported 4-star rating for frontal impact, driver.

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

NHTSA reported 4-star rating for frontal impact, passenger.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory AM/FM/CD players, some with cassette and optional premium audio systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Trailer Tow Package:

Optional trailer tow package often included enhanced cooling, heavier-duty suspension, and trailer wiring harnesses.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used, as specified in the owner's manual and supported by this service manual.

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Check every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Varies by engine. For 3.7L V6: approx. 100,000 miles. For 4.7L V8: approx. 100,000 miles. Consult manual for exact type and gap.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent power steering fluid.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Coolant Capacity 3 7L:

Approx. 11.2 US quarts (10.6 L).

Coolant Capacity 4 7L:

Approx. 13.3 US quarts (12.6 L).

Common Issues:

Interior/exterior trim peeling or fading, occasional transmission hard shifts, ABS sensor failures, potential for front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), rust on body panels, particularly around wheel wells and rocker panels.

Engine Specific Notes:

The 4.7L V8 can be sensitive to oil changes and may develop issues if not properly maintained; look for specific procedures regarding decarbonization or valve guide wear in the manual.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, with the Dakota occupying a niche between smaller compact trucks and larger full-size pickups.

Second Generation Debut:

The second generation, introduced for the 1997 model year, brought significant styling and engineering updates, including the introduction of the available V8 engine.

2002 Updates:

The 2002 model year saw minor styling tweaks and potentially package updates, but represented a mature iteration of the second-generation platform.

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific 'Truck of the Year' awards for the 2002 model are not widely publicized, the Dakota consistently received praise for its V8 option and comfortable ride in automotive reviews of the era.