Category:
Compact to Mid-Size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Dodge owners seeking in-depth knowledge
Competitors 2000:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma
Vehicle Focus:
Durable construction, V6 and V8 engine options, rear-wheel drive and 4x4 configurations
Manual Value Proposition:
Authoritative, dealer-level repair information for accurate and efficient servicing.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Exhaust
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear Disc/Drum), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition, Starting System, Charging System, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls
Body And Frame:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Frame & Structure
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Component Rebuild, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, OBD-II Codes and Diagnosis
Technical Data:
Specifications, Tolerances, Torque Values, Diagnostic Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars
ABS:
Available, standard on some later models/trims
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point, rear 3-point (standard cab) / lap belts (club cab)
Audio System:
AM/FM Stereo, Cassette, CD Player (optional)
Speaker Configuration:
2, 4, or 6 speakers depending on trim
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Power Accessories:
Power windows and locks available on higher trims
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs:
100,000 miles (for platinum or iridium plugs, consult manual for original spec)
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 in warmer climates for 2.5L/3.9L), SAE 10W-30 (for 5.2L V8)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.9L:
4.5 quarts (with filter)
Transmission Fluid Type 42Re:
ATF+4 (MS-9224)
Transmission Fluid Type 46Re:
ATF+4 (MS-9224)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically a 50/50 mix
Common Issue 1:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V8 models)
Common Issue 2:
Premature wear of ball joints and tie rod ends
Common Issue 3:
Rear main seal leaks (V8)
Common Issue 4:
Transmission torque converter shudder or slipping (automatic transmissions)
