Target Audience:
Dodge Dakota owners, independent repair shops, parts suppliers, DIY mechanics, and restorers.
Value Proposition:
Provides definitive OEM part numbers and detailed visual breakdowns essential for accurate part ordering and successful repairs, reducing guesswork and ensuring correct component selection.
Illustrations:
Extensive use of exploded view diagrams to illustrate component relationships and assembly sequences.
Part Number Accuracy:
Lists official Mopar (Dodge) part numbers, ensuring compatibility and authenticity.
Organization:
Parts are organized by system and sub-assembly for logical browsing and identification.
Primary Coverage:
Replacement Parts Catalog / Exploded Parts Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific engine/configuration, typically 500+ pages for comprehensive coverage.
Type:
OEM Replacement Parts Manual
Format:
Illustrated, Exploded Diagrams, Part Numbers Listed by Section
Engine And Powertrain:
Engine components (internal and external), cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, driveline components (driveshafts, axles, differentials).
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering components, brake system components, wheels and tires.
Body And Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, lighting, glass, trim, mirrors, bed components (for pickup variants).
Interior And Accessories:
Seating, dashboard components, interior trim, HVAC system components (limited to part identification), seat belts, airbags (component identification).
Electrical And Electronics:
Component identification for electrical systems (e.g., starter, alternator, battery, fuse box components, lighting assemblies) - primarily part identification, not wiring diagrams.
Assembly Disassembly Guidance:
Provides visual reference for disassembly and assembly by showing how components fit together.
Part Identification:
Enables accurate identification of all replacement parts using OEM part numbers.
Repair Planning:
Facilitates repair planning by allowing users to visualize required components.
Depth:
Detailed part identification and visualization for repair and replacement. Does not include diagnostic procedures or repair instructions beyond part replacement.
Digital Format If Applicable:
Typically available as a PDF for digital distribution, allowing for searchability and easy navigation.
Print Quality:
High-resolution diagrams suitable for printing.
Binding Type If Printed:
Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability and lay-flat usability.
Paper Type If Printed:
Durable, glossy paper stock to withstand workshop environments and display diagrams clearly.
Engine Options Covered:
The manual will cover parts for the available engines for the 2005-2007 Dodge Dakota, which primarily include the 3.7L Magnum V6 and the 4.7L Magnum V8 (both non-HO and HO variants).
Engine 3.7L V6:
Approx. 210-215 hp, 235-245 lb-ft torque (specific figures may vary by year and tune).
Engine 4.7L V8:
Approx. 230-250 hp, 295-305 lb-ft torque (non-HO). HO variant approx. 260 hp, 310 lb-ft torque.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Maintenance Related Parts
Common Replacement Parts:
Gaskets (head, intake, exhaust), seals (crankshaft, valve stem), spark plugs, ignition coils, filters (oil, air, fuel), belts, hoses, water pump, thermostat.
Transmission Options:
Typically manual transmission options (e.g., NV3500 5-speed for V6, NV3500 5-speed or NV5600 6-speed for V8) and automatic transmission options (e.g., 45RFE/545RFE 4-speed automatic for V6/V8).
Automatic Transmission Details:
45RFE/545RFE 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, known for its robustness.
Drivetrain:
Available in 2WD (RWD) and 4WD configurations.
Maintenance Related Parts
Transmission Parts:
Clutch components (for manual), torque converter, transmission filter, transmission fluid lines, seals, transmission mounts.
Body Styles Covered:
Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab), Quad Cab (Crew Cab).
Bed Lengths Covered:
Short Bed (approx. 6.25 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft).
Curb Weight Range:
Typically ranging from 4,000 lbs to 4,800 lbs depending on configuration and drivetrain.
Towing Capacity:
Varies significantly by engine, drivetrain, and axle ratio; capable of towing up to 6,000-7,000 lbs or more in properly equipped configurations.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Generally received good ratings for front impact safety (e.g., 4-star driver, 5-star passenger in some tests).
NHTSA Side Impact:
Ratings varied, often good for side impact (e.g., 4-star front passenger, 3-star rear passenger in some tests).
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum brakes standard. Available ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) available, particularly on higher trims and 4WD models.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags for driver and passenger. Side curtain airbags may be optional on some configurations.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, with optional premium audio systems and satellite radio integration.
Navigation:
Navigation systems were not widely available or standard on this generation of Dakota, generally limited to aftermarket options or higher trim levels/later model years if offered.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Lighting Controls:
Automatic headlamps and fog lamps available on higher trims.
Power Outlets:
Standard 12V power outlets for accessory charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions.
Filter Replacement Interval:
Engine air filter: 15,000-30,000 miles. Cabin air filter: 15,000-30,000 miles. Fuel filter: Often integrated with the fuel pump module on these models, typically not a separate service item but replaced with pump if faulty.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000 - 100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Engine Oil:
API Certified SAE 5W-20 (for 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8, check owner's manual for specific viscosity for climate).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to specific manual transmission fluid specifications (e.g., ATF or GL-4 gear oil).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Orange Antifreeze/Engine Coolant) or equivalent HOAT. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, exhaust system components (rust/leaks), rear main seal leaks, lifter noise (on some V8s), PCM failures (less common but documented).
Common Issues Parts Focus
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear and associated components (pressure plate, throw-out bearing) are common for manual transmission models.
Cooling System Leaks:
Leaking radiator, water pump, and heater hoses are potential issues requiring part replacement.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and capable trucks, with the Dakota bridging the gap between compact and full-size pickups.
Second Generation Dakota:
The 2005-2007 models represent the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, which debuted in 1997 and received a significant refresh for the 2005 model year. This refresh included a redesigned exterior and interior, and importantly, the introduction of the more powerful 4.7L Magnum V8 engine and a more potent version of the 3.7L Magnum V6. It also saw the introduction of the Quad Cab configuration.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Warren, Michigan, USA.
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings varied over the years for the Dakota, with some years showing average reliability and others below average. This parts manual would be crucial for maintaining a vehicle with potentially average reliability.
Intellichoice:
May have received 'SmartChoice' awards in certain categories for value or ownership costs in some years.
Oem Standards:
This manual adheres to OEM part catalog standards, ensuring accuracy and completeness for genuine Dodge parts.