🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Dakota

Years Covered:

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

Chassis Code:

4th Generation (2005-2011)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size pickup truck

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional automotive technicians, fleet maintenance managers

Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier

Vehicle Platform:

Chrysler HG platform (shared with Dodge Ram, Mitsubishi Raider)

Body Styles:

Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Quad Cab), Crew Cab (from 2008)

Configurations:

2WD and 4WD options

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and diagnostics

Page Count:

5249

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing and digital viewing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, 5.7L HEMI V8 (including all variations and components)

Transmission:

42RLE (4-speed automatic), 45RFE (4-speed automatic), NV3500 (5-speed manual), NV4500 (5-speed manual)

Drivetrain:

Rear Wheel Drive (RWD), Four Wheel Drive (4WD) systems, differentials, axles, transfer case

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum/disc brakes, ABS, brake assist, parking brake system

Suspension:

Front independent torsion bar, rear solid axle leaf spring suspension, steering systems (power steering, steering column)

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn, wipers, interior electronics, fuse and relay identification, wiring diagrams

HVAC:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system, components, and diagnostics

Body:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, structural components, body repair procedures

Chassis:

Frame structure, underbody components, fuel system (tank, lines, pump), exhaust system

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, child restraint systems

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

OBD-II system, DTC definitions, troubleshooting guides based on codes

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, tune-ups

Repair:

Engine overhauls, transmission repairs, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel replacement

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, identifying causes of malfunctions

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II procedures, scan tool usage, sensor testing, circuit testing

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, component clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications

Depth Of Coverage:

Full workshop level, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.7L

Engine 1 Type:

SOHC V6 Magnum

Engine 1 Cylinders:

6

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 210-215 hp

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 235-240 lb-ft

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.7L

Engine 2 Type:

SOHC V8 Magnum

Engine 2 Cylinders:

8

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 230-250 hp

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 290-320 lb-ft

Engine 3 Displacement:

5.7L

Engine 3 Type:

OHV V8 HEMI with MDS (Multi-Displacement System)

Engine 3 Cylinders:

8

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 345-375 hp

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 375-410 lb-ft

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1 Type:

42RLE 4-speed automatic

Transmission 2 Type:

45RFE 4-speed automatic (with 4.7L and 5.7L engines)

Transmission 3 Type:

NV3500 5-speed manual (with 3.7L engine)

Transmission 4 Type:

NV4500 5-speed manual (Heavy Duty applications)

Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (for automatic transmissions), Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) for manual transmissions

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 120.3 inches (3056 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 207.5 inches (5271 mm)

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.4 inches (2017 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 71.4 inches (1813 mm)

Bed Length Short:

Approx. 60.4 inches (1534 mm)

Bed Length Long:

Approx. 73.9 inches (1877 mm)

Curb Weight Start:

Approx. 4,100 lbs (1860 kg)

Curb Weight End:

Approx. 4,800 lbs (2177 kg)

Max Payload:

Up to approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg)

Max Towing Capacity:

Up to approx. 7,000 lbs (3175 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

3-star (varies by configuration)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - introduced later in the generation

Airbags:

Front airbags, available side-curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with CD player, optional upgraded audio systems with SiriusXM satellite radio and navigation available on later models.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS, TCS, and optional ESC.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary input jack for audio devices, optional Bluetooth for hands-free calling on select trims/packages.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement:

30,000 miles for standard plugs, 100,000 miles for iridium/platinum plugs (engine dependent)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, consult manual for manual transmissions

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API certified, ILSAC GF-4 or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5-7 quarts (4.7-6.6 liters) depending on engine

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) may be compatible

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Problems 1:

Ball joint wear, front suspension clunks

Common Problems 2:

Water pump leaks (especially with 4.7L V8)

Common Problems 3:

Transmission solenoid issues (especially 42RLE)

Common Problems 4:

ABS sensor failures, leading to ABS warning lights

Common Problems 5:

Rust and corrosion on frame rails and body panels, particularly in certain climates

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing trucks and performance vehicles.

Generation:

This manual covers the third and final generation of the Dodge Dakota.

Design Changes:

The 2005 model year marked a significant redesign, moving to the Chrysler HG platform, introducing a new exterior styling, and offering a more powerful HEMI V8 option.

Facelifts:

A minor refresh occurred for the 2008 model year, including updated styling and the introduction of the Crew Cab model.

Production Start:

2005

Production End:

2011

Manufacturing Location:

Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

The Dodge Dakota has received various truck of the year awards and positive reviews from automotive publications throughout its production runs, particularly for its powertrain options and towing capabilities.