🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2005-2007

Platform:

Chrysler SBX platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance

Key Competitors:

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

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair information, enabling owners to perform maintenance and repairs with confidence, saving time and money.

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust powertrains, available V8 engine, decent towing capacity for its class, comfortable ride for a truck.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Options Covered:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8

Transmission Options Covered:

4-speed automatic (42RLE), 5-speed automatic (5-45RFE), 6-speed manual (NV3500)

Trim Levels Covered:

ST, SLT, TRX, TRX4

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Instant Download PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM), automatic and manual transmissions, transfer case, driveline components (driveshafts, U-joints, axles)

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, power assist), wheel alignment specifications, chassis lubrication

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control modules (BCM), comfort and convenience features, infotainment system, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II)

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, HVAC system, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), body structural repair

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, electrical testing procedures, component testing

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul and replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair

Installation:

Component installation and removal, accessory installation guides

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and text for easy readability and printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Instant Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Name:

3.7L Magnum V6

Engine 1 Displacement:

3700 cc (226 cu in)

Engine 1 Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine 1 Horsepower:

210-215 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Name:

4.7L Magnum V8

Engine 2 Displacement:

4701 cc (287 cu in)

Engine 2 Configuration:

SOHC V8

Engine 2 Horsepower:

230-235 hp @ 4700 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

300-305 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3 Name:

5.7L HEMI V8

Engine 3 Displacement:

5654 cc (345 cu in)

Engine 3 Configuration:

OHV V8 with Multi-Displacement System (MDS)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

345 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, 91 octane for HEMI recommended for optimal performance)

ECM Model:

Various Chrysler PCM/ECM modules, specific part numbers detailed in manual

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (42RLE)

Optional Transmission 1:

5-speed automatic (5-45RFE)

Optional Transmission 2:

6-speed manual (NV3500)

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive gears.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9-10 quarts (dry fill), 5-7 quarts (drain and fill)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

115.2 inches

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

131.3 inches

Bed Length Short:

6 feet (72.2 inches)

Bed Length Long:

7 feet (84.2 inches)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,100 - 4,800 lbs depending on configuration

Max Payload Capacity:

Up to approx. 1,500-1,900 lbs depending on configuration

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to approx. 6,500 lbs depending on configuration and engine

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating 2Wd:

4 stars

NHTSA Rollover Rating 4Wd:

4 stars

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) on some models.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, optional side-impact airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, and satellite radio. Available premium audio systems.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear park assist sensors on some models.

Auxiliary Input:

Optional auxiliary audio input jack.

Bluetooth:

Not commonly available on this generation, primarily aftermarket integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, or as indicated by the oil change indicator system.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8:

3.7L/4.7L V8: Approx. 100,000 miles. 5.7L HEMI: Approx. 100,000 miles (use correct spark plug type).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on usage and fluid condition (refer to manual for specifics).

Engine Oil Type V6 V8:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent (check manual for specific viscosity requirements based on temperature).

Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:

5 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:

6 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:

7 quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT - Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent.

Common Issue 1:

Actuator failure in HVAC blend doors, causing temperature control issues.

Common Issue 2:

Water pump leaks or bearing failure, particularly on the 4.7L and 5.7L engines.

Common Issue 3:

Transmission solenoid issues (particularly in the 42RLE) leading to shifting problems.

Common Issue 4:

Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods) due to truck usage.

Common Issue 5:

Exhaust manifold cracks, especially on the HEMI engine, leading to ticking noises.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

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

Second Generation Launch:

The second generation Dakota (2005-2011) was a significant redesign, introducing available V8 engines (including the HEMI) and a larger platform.

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan

Production Years Covered:

2005, 2006, 2007

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Nominee:

While specific awards may vary by publication and year, the Dakota was often recognized for its V8 power and utility within its class.