Segment:
Mid-size Pickup Truck
Competitors 2009:
Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon
Powertrain Options:
Available in V6 and V8 engine configurations, with RWD and 4WD options.
Body Styles:
Available in regular cab and crew cab configurations with short and long bed options.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission operation (automatic and manual)
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, traction control), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system (interior and exterior), instrument cluster, gauges, warning indicators, power accessories, fuses and relays
Body And Interior:
Doors, windows, mirrors, seats, climate control system, audio system, security system, interior lighting, cargo area
Basic Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, parking, door lock operation, window operation, climate control adjustment
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement, air filter inspection
Diy Activities:
Minor troubleshooting steps, basic cleaning, potentially simple component replacements covered in the 'do it yourself' sections
Towing And Safety:
Towing guidelines, trailer wiring information, seat belt usage, airbag system explanation, child restraint system installation, emergency procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information covering daily operation, preventative maintenance, and basic safety/towing procedures. Does not delve into complex diagnostic codes or detailed repair procedures typically found in a service manual.
Transmission 37L:
4-speed automatic (42RLE)
Transmission 47L:
5-speed automatic (5-45RFE)
Transmission Manual:
6-speed manual (NV3500 - available on some 3.7L models)
4X4 System:
Part-time 4WD system with electronic transfer case, or optional full-time 4WD on some models.
Length Std Bed:
Approximately 209.1 inches
Length Long Bed:
Approximately 229.1 inches
Seating Capacity:
2 (Regular Cab), 4-5 (Crew Cab)
Bed Length Short:
Approximately 6 feet
Bed Length Long:
Approximately 8 feet
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,350 lbs (with appropriate engine and equipment)
Payload Capacity:
Up to 1,700 lbs (depending on configuration)
NHTSA Front Driver:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Passenger:
Good (for models tested)
IIHS Offset Frontal:
Acceptable (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) standard on most models
Airbags Front:
Standard advanced driver and front-passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front-seat side-impact airbags, optional side-curtain airbags on Crew Cab models
Seatbelts:
Front three-point seat belts with pretensioners, rear three-point seat belts
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system. Optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, auxiliary input jack, and upgraded speaker systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Power Outlets:
12V auxiliary power outlet in the dashboard.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific guidance).
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 7,500 miles.
Service Intervals Filters
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (refer to manual for specific Mopar coolant type).
Engine Oil 37L:
SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Capacity: Approx. 6 quarts (with filter).
Engine Oil 47L:
SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Capacity: Approx. 7 quarts (with filter).
Fluid Specifications Transmission
Transmission Fluid 42Rle:
Mopar ATF+4 (Type 9602) or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 4.5 quarts (dry fill).
Transmission Fluid 545Rfe:
Mopar ATF+4 (Type 9602) or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 7 quarts (dry fill).
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Engine Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) 5/50 Formula, typically orange in color. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity varies by engine/configuration, approximately 11-15 quarts.
Typical Concerns:
Some common issues reported for this generation include minor electrical gremlins, potential for brake wear, and occasional transmission shifting anomalies. Radiator support issues and rust on the frame rails in certain climates are also noted. Refer to the manual for guidance on basic checks.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Second Generation Start:
The second generation Dakota, which includes the 2009 model, debuted for the 2005 model year and represented a significant redesign with improved styling, chassis, and powertrains.
Manufacturing Plant:
The Dodge Dakota (ND platform) was primarily manufactured at the Chrysler plant in Warren, Michigan.
