🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Year:

2000

Platform Code:

AN

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Dodge Dakota owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics, automotive students.

Competitors My2000:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier

Manual Advantage:

Vehicle-specific, technician-level detail, A-Z coverage, not generic.

Model Distinction:

The 2000 Dakota was part of the second generation (1997-2004), known for its larger size and more powerful V8 engine option compared to competitors.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All Dodge Dakota models (including 2WD and 4WD variants, regular cab, club cab, and possibly quad cab if introduced by MY2000)

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels available for the 2000 model year

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed Book or Digital PDF (Product description implies dealership technician use, suggesting comprehensive original format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (RWD, 4WD, Transfer Case)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear, ABS), Wheels & Tires

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Seats, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Exterior Lighting, Interior Lighting, Body Electrical Systems

Electrical And Diagnostics:

Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Sensors, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)

Maintenance:

Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, electrical system testing, component testing, DTC interpretation

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, HVAC component service, electrical component repair/replacement

Installation And Adjustment:

Component installation, calibration, alignment procedures, torque specifications for all fasteners

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full component overhaul and advanced diagnostics, mirroring dealership technician resources.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Quality:

Likely High-Resolution Scans or Digitally Native Text (if PDF), ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Print Quality:

Professional print quality with clear diagrams, schematics, and legible text (if printed).

Binding:

Sturdy binding suitable for shop use (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect-bound with reinforced spine) if printed.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock resistant to grease and shop environment (if printed).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.5L Magnum L4 (AMC 150)

Engine 1 Displacement Liters:

2.5

Engine 1 Horsepower Hp:

122

Engine 1 Torque Lb Ft:

151

Engine 2:

3.9L Magnum V6 (LA/Magnum Series)

Engine 2 Displacement Liters:

3.9

Engine 2 Horsepower Hp:

175

Engine 2 Torque Lb Ft:

230

Engine 3:

5.2L Magnum V8 (LA/Magnum Series)

Engine 3 Displacement Liters:

5.2

Engine 3 Horsepower Hp:

230

Engine 3 Torque Lb Ft:

295

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE for V6, 46RE for V8)

Transmission 2:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500 for L4/V6, NV4500 for V8)

Transfer Case 4Wd:

New Process NV231 (part-time, electronically controlled)

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

ATF+3 (Chrysler spec)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity TBD by manual, typically 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

111.7 (Regular Cab), 124.7 (Club Cab)

Overall Length Inches:

197.6 (Regular Cab), 210.6 (Club Cab)

Bed Length Inches:

6 (Standard Bed), 8 (Long Bed - typically on longer wheelbase models)

Curb Weight Lbs Approx:

3500-4500 (Varies by configuration)

Towing Capacity Lbs Max Approx:

6000-7000 (Varies by engine and configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Star:

4 Stars (for models equipped with airbags)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Star:

4 Stars (for models equipped with airbags)

IIHS Offset Frontal Rating:

Acceptable (May vary based on specific test data)

ABS:

Standard on many models, optional on others. Rear-wheel anti-lock brakes (RWAL) or 4-wheel ABS.

Traction Control:

Optional on some higher trims, often integrated with ABS.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags (standard on most trims by 2000).

Seat Belts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts (where applicable).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player options. Optional premium sound systems.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC) depending on trim.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Telematics:

No advanced telematics or integrated connectivity features; base technology for the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

3,000-7,500 miles (dependent on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual for specifics).

Air Filter Replacement Miles:

15,000-30,000 miles (dependent on conditions).

Spark Plug Replacement Miles V6 V8:

Approx. 100,000 miles (with specific long-life plugs, check manual).

Coolant Flush Interval Miles:

30,000-50,000 miles or every 3-5 years.

Engine Oil Type Viscosity:

5W-30 (recommended for most conditions), 10W-30 (for warmer climates). Check manual for exact specs and API service classification.

Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:

4.5 (2.5L I4), 5.0 (3.9L V6), 5.0 (5.2L V8) - includes filter. Consult manual for exact figures.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Mopar P/N 05010827AA or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problem 1:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8 models) leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises.

Common Problem 2:

Transmission cooler line leaks or internal failure, particularly in the 42RE and 46RE automatics.

Common Problem 3:

Ball joint wear and front suspension issues due to the independent front suspension design.

Common Problem 4:

Interior electrical gremlins, such as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, or instrument cluster issues.

Common Problem 5:

Rust and corrosion, particularly on the frame, rocker panels, and wheel wells, common for vehicles of this era.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

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

First Generation:

1998-2003

Second Generation Launch:

The 1998 Dakota was a significant redesign, introducing a larger, more substantial chassis and body, and notably, a V8 engine option, a rarity in the compact truck segment at the time.

Mid Cycle Refresh Potential:

The 2000 model year may have received minor updates but was primarily part of the initial second-generation platform.

Manufacturing Locations:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific major awards for the 2000 model are not prominent, the Dakota generally received positive reviews for its powerful V8 option and truck-like capabilities, bridging the gap between compact and full-size pickups.