Model Generation Covered:
Third Generation (2005-2011)
Model Years Covered:
2005 onwards (including 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011)
Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance.
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Technical Accuracy:
Authoritative source for factory-level repair information.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (RWD, 4WD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear Disc, ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Distribution, Accessories, Body Control Module (BCM)
Body And Trim:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Seats, Glass
Climate Control:
HVAC System, A/C Components, Heater Core
Safety Systems:
Airbag System, Seat Belts, Latch/ISOfix Anchors
Maintenance:
Routine Service, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks/Changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom Analysis, Fault Code Interpretation
Repair:
Component Removal, Installation, Adjustment, Rebuilding
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Specific System Diagnostics
Component Overhaul:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Rebuilds
Depth Of Information:
Expert-Level: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic trees, wiring diagrams for electrical troubleshooting.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding major components.
Searchability:
Fully searchable PDF text for quick information retrieval.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.
Format Description:
Digital download, not a physical book.
Digital Format Notes:
Printable pages for easy on-site use during repairs.
Engine Options:
2.9L Magnum V6, 3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8
Engine Codes:
2.9L: ERB, 3.7L: ERM, 4.7L: EVA, 5.7L: ESG
Horsepower Range:
160 hp (2.9L) to 345 hp (5.7L HEMI)
Torque Range:
180 lb-ft (2.9L) to 375 lb-ft (5.7L HEMI)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (on some V6 models)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (42RLE), 5-speed Automatic (545RFE, 4WD V8 models)
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Wheelbase:
120.1 inches (Regular Cab), 131.3 inches (Club Cab/Quad Cab)
Overall Length:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 195.7 to 216.9 inches)
Bed Length Options:
6.1 ft (short bed), 7.3 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,800 lbs to 4,700 lbs
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for many models)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for many models)
Braking System:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control (TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, available front-seat side airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo, CD player, optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, available premium audio systems.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Auxiliary Input:
Available auxiliary audio input jack
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Check manual, but typically 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-20 for V6, 5W-30 for V8). Always check fill level.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to reservoir cap)
Common Problems:
Ball joint wear, exhaust manifold cracks (older V8s), radiator leaks, occasional transmission issues.
Recalls Campaigns:
Check for outstanding recalls via NHTSA or manufacturer website.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, with the Dakota filling the mid-size segment.
Generation Introduction:
The third generation marked a significant redesign with improved styling, powertrains, and interior amenities.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan
