🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Generation Code:

Third Generation (2005-2011)

Platform Code:

Chrysler ST

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Pickup Truck

Key Selling Points:

Powerful engine options, robust chassis, comfortable ride for its class, versatile cargo bed.

Direct Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon

Manufacturer Claim:

This manual provides technicians and owners with all the necessary information to diagnose, maintain, and repair the Dodge Dakota from 2005 onwards, mirroring the data used by dealership professionals.

Manual Advantage:

Vehicle-specific, not generic, covering A-Z repairs for all models and configurations.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All Dodge Dakota Models from 2005 onwards (including ST, SLT, Laramie, Sport, TRX, TRX4 trims)

Engine Variants Covered:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 4.7L High Output Magnum V8 (with specific notes for Flex Fuel variants)

Body Styles Covered:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Club Cab), Crew Cab

Production Years Covered:

2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (3.7L, 4.7L V8), Engine electrical, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Ignition system, Cooling system, Lubrication system

Transmission:

42RLE Automatic Transmission, NV3500 Manual Transmission (if applicable to specific models/years), Transfer Case (4WD models), Drivetrain components (axles, driveshafts)

Chassis:

Suspension (front independent, rear solid axle), Steering system, Brake system (front discs, rear drums/discs), Wheel alignment specifications

Electrical:

Body control module (BCM), Powertrain control module (PCM), Instrument cluster, Lighting systems, Audio systems, Climate control systems, Power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Security systems, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and procedures

Body:

Exterior body panels, Interior trim, Doors, Glass, Seats, HVAC components, Bumpers, Bed (tailgate, liner specifications)

Maintenance:

Oil change intervals, Filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), Fluid checks and top-offs, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement, Tire rotation and pressure checks

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine removal and installation, Cylinder head service, Piston and connecting rod service, Crankshaft service, Transmission removal and installation, Clutch service (manual transmission), Brake caliper and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods), Steering rack/gearbox service, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system procedures

Depth:

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

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution scans, text-searchable, with clickable table of contents and hyperlinks where applicable.

Printability:

Printable pages for easy reference during repairs.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.7 Liters (226 cu in)

Engine 1 Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 210-215 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.7 Liters (287 cu in)

Engine 2 Configuration:

SOHC V8

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 230-235 hp @ 4500 rpm (standard), 255-260 hp @ 5100 rpm (High Output)

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 290-300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (standard), 330-335 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm (High Output)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Flex Fuel option for 4.7L V8 allows E85)

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)

Transmission Type Opt:

5-Speed Manual (NV3500 - typically found on V6 models)

Overdrive:

Yes (all transmissions)

Transfer Case Std:

N/A (2WD models)

Transfer Case Opt:

Electronic shift-on-the-fly 4WD system (2WD/4WD Part-Time, 4WD Low)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Regular Cab:

Approx. 120.0 inches

Wheelbase Extended Cab:

Approx. 131.3 inches

Wheelbase Crew Cab:

Approx. 140.0 inches

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration (approx. 199-227 inches)

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.1 inches

Overall Height:

Approx. 71.5-72.0 inches

Bed Length Short:

Approx. 60.0 inches (Short Bed)

Bed Length Long:

Approx. 76.0 inches (Long Bed)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,300 - 5,000 lbs (varies by configuration)

Max Payload:

Approx. 1,000 - 1,800 lbs (varies by configuration)

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,200 lbs (with 4.7L V8 and proper towing package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

Good

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

Good

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Acceptable (with specific year variations)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - introduced on later models.

Airbags Front:

Standard driver and front passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front-seat side airbags

Seatbelts:

Height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Standard AM/FM/CD, optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, optional Infinity premium audio system.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system on higher trims.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Bluetooth:

Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend or full synthetic oil recommended).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 60,000 miles or 5 years

Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L V6:

Every 100,000 miles (platinum tip)

Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L V8:

Every 100,000 miles (platinum tip)

Engine Oil 3.7L:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or newer, MS-6395 compliant (Approx. 6.0 quarts capacity)

Engine Oil 4.7L:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or newer, MS-6395 compliant (Approx. 7.0 quarts capacity)

Transmission Fluid 42Rle:

Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Transfer Case Fluid:

Mopar NV247/NV244 Transfer Case Fluid (specific part number available in manual)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) - HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Pink

Common Issue 1:

Crankshaft position sensor failures leading to no-start or stalling.

Common Issue 2:

Rattling noise from catalytic converter heat shields.

Common Issue 3:

Minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan.

Common Issue 4:

ABS/Traction Control warning lights due to wheel speed sensor issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Chrysler Group LLC (formerly DaimlerChrysler)

Generation Start Year:

2005

Generation End Year:

2011

Key Design Changes In Generation:

Larger overall dimensions, redesigned interior and exterior, introduction of crew cab body style, improved powertrain options.

Assembly Plant:

Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Typical Award Category:

'Most Capable' compact pickup truck from various automotive publications during its production run.