Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance personnel, and Dodge Dakota owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, saving owners significant costs compared to dealership service. Enables accurate troubleshooting and preventative maintenance.
Vehicle Key Strengths:
Known for its V8 engine option in a compact truck class, robust chassis, and towing capability. Offered in various configurations to suit different needs.
Model Years Covered:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels (e.g., ST, SLT, SLT Plus, Sport, SXT, Laramie)
Body Styles Covered:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive, likely over 2000 pages based on typical factory service manuals for this era and coverage.
Type:
Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF assumed, based on description)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, diagnostics), fuel system (injectors, pump, lines), ignition system (coils, plugs, sensors), cooling system (radiator, thermostat, water pump), lubrication system (oil pump, oil filter, oil pan), emissions control system (catalytic converter, EGR, O2 sensors), engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (42RLE, 45RFE, 48RE) service and repair, manual transmission (NV3500) service and repair, transfer case (2WD/4WD) operation and repair, driveshafts, U-joints, axles, differentials.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnostics, parking brake system, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (control arms, ball joints, struts, shocks, leaf springs), steering system (power steering pump, steering gear, tie rods), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Electronics:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams for all systems, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors, cruise control.
Body Chassis:
Body structural components, exterior panels (doors, fenders, hood, tailgate), interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body control modules (BCM), chassis components, frame specifications.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, brake pad inspection and replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance analysis, component testing procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension upgrades, and electrical component repair.
Special Tools Jigs:
Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed wiring diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts, and torque specifications.
Base Engine:
2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4 (OHV, 8 valves)
2.5L Engine Power:
Approx. 120-130 hp @ 5200 rpm
2.5L Engine Torque:
Approx. 145-155 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Engine Variant 1:
3.7L (226 cu in) Chrysler Magnum V6 (SOHC, 12 valves)
3.7L Engine Power:
Approx. 210-230 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm
3.7L Engine Torque:
Approx. 235-250 lb-ft @ 3200-4000 rpm
Engine Variant 2:
4.7L (285 cu in) Chrysler Magnum V8 (SOHC, 16 valves)
4.7L Engine Power:
Approx. 235-240 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm
4.7L Engine Torque:
Approx. 295-300 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended for V6 and V8, 85 octane for I4)
Engine Management:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed automatic (42RLE) or 5-speed manual (NV3500) depending on engine and trim.
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic (45RFE/48RE) for V8 engines.
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive), 4WD (Part-time Four-Wheel Drive with available electronic shift-on-the-fly)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) is generally recommended for 42RLE, 45RFE, and 48RE transmissions. Consult manual for exact specification.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90). Consult manual for exact specification.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Often rated in the 3-star range for rollover resistance.
IIHS Ratings:
Varies by year and test; early models may have lower ratings for frontal impact protection compared to later designs.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Optional traction control system, often tied to 4WD systems or specific packages.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts (where applicable).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (4,800 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
I4: approx. 60,000 miles. V6/V8: approx. 100,000 miles with platinum or iridium plugs. Consult manual for exact type and interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 3-5 years. Check manual for coolant type and interval.
Engine Oil Specification:
5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Certified). Check dipstick and manual for exact capacity and type.
Coolant Specification:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent. Capacity approx. 12-15 quarts.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Issues Powertrain:
Vibrations from driveshaft/U-joints, oil cooler line leaks (4.7L V8), transmission solenoid issues (automatic transmissions), intake manifold gasket leaks (3.7L V6).
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, premature wear of control arm bushings, power steering pump whine or leaks.
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty fuel pump relay, intermittent gauge cluster issues, window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures.
Common Issues Body:
Rust formation on rear wheel wells and rocker panels, tailgate cable failures, door handle issues.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, establishing a reputation for performance and utility.
Second Generation Introduction:
The second generation (AN) debuted for the 1998 model year, significantly redesigned from the first generation. The 2000-2007 period covers the majority of this generation's lifespan, with minor updates occurring.
Facelifts Updates:
A notable refresh occurred for the 2002 model year, featuring updated styling, interior revisions, and powertrain enhancements, including the introduction of the 3.7L V6 and improved 4.7L V8. Later years saw further minor refinements.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in North America, with Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, being a key facility.
Model Discontinuation:
The Dodge Dakota was discontinued after the 2011 model year, with the Ram brand taking over pickup truck operations for Chrysler.
