Engine Mechanical:
All engine types, internal components, cylinder heads, crankshaft, pistons, timing, lubrication
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls, sensors, actuators
Transmission Mechanical:
Automatic and manual transmissions, internal components, torque converter, clutch, shift mechanisms
Transmission Electronic:
Transmission control module (TCM), solenoids, sensors, diagnostic procedures
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials (front and rear), axle shafts, transfer case (for 4WD models)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shocks, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, steering linkage
Steering:
Power steering system, pump, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods
Brakes:
Brake system components, discs, pads, calipers, lines, master cylinder, ABS system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, accessories
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, refrigerant, components
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, instrumentation, airbags, seat belts
Infotainment And Audio:
Radio, speakers, display units, connectivity features
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, specific system tests, wiring diagrams, connector pinouts
Component Replacement:
Engine, transmission, suspension parts, brake components, electrical modules
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with accompanying diagrams and illustrations
Engine 1 Variant:
3.7L V6 Magnum (Monroney Sticker: ERB)
Engine 1 Displacement:
3.7 Liters / 226.1 cubic inches
Engine 1 Configuration:
SOHC V6
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 210 hp @ 5200 RPM
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Emissions:
California emissions (often denoted with 'X') may have slight variations.
Engine 2 Variant:
4.7L V8 Magnum (Monroney Sticker: END)
Engine 2 Displacement:
4.7 Liters / 287.4 cubic inches
Engine 2 Configuration:
SOHC V8
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 302 hp @ 5650 RPM
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 3950 RPM
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (42RLE for V6, 545RFE for V8)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-Speed Manual (NV3500 for V6 only, less common)
Overdrive:
All automatic transmissions feature overdrive
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD system (NV243G or NV244G depending on engine/transmission)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Varies by transmission, consult manual for exact capacity (typically 10-12 quarts)
Wheelbase Extended Cab:
120.0 inches
Wheelbase Crew Cab:
131.0 inches
Overall Length Varies:
Depending on cab and bed configuration (e.g., 199.8 inches for short bed, 212.5 inches for long bed)
Bed Lengths:
6.1 ft (short bed), 7.0 ft (long bed)
Curb Weight Approx:
4,200 - 4,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
Max Payload Capacity Approx:
1,300 - 1,500 lbs
Max Towing Capacity Approx:
Up to 6,500 lbs (with 4.7L V8 and proper towing package)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2011 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2011 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5 Stars (2011 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5 Stars (2011 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear:
4 Stars (2011 Model Year)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (2011 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, available front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Check manual for severe conditions.
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plugs V6:
Replace at approximately 100,000 miles (use recommended spark plug type, e.g., Champion Iridium or equivalent).
Spark Plugs V8:
Replace at approximately 100,000 miles (use recommended spark plug type, e.g., Champion Iridium or equivalent).
Coolant Flush:
Initial flush at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check manual; typically around 60,000-100,000 miles or based on towing/severe usage.
Engine Oil V6:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent (e.g., Pennzoil Platinum, Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic)
Engine Oil V8:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent (e.g., Pennzoil Platinum, Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic)
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 5.7 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity V8:
Approx. 7.0 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent (Mopar OAT coolant, typically purple or orange).
Common Issues:
Radiator leaks (plastic tanks), alternator failures, EGR valve issues (on some V8s), fuel pump module leaks, rust on frame and cab corners.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional issues with the 42RLE automatic (particularly in heavy-duty applications or with high mileage), such as harsh shifting or slipping.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and capable trucks, including the original Ram and its predecessors.
Dakota Generation:
These models represent the final generation (2005-2011) of the Dodge Dakota before its discontinuation. The Bighorn was a popular, higher-trim level.
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
While this generation spanned several years, the 2008 model year saw a significant mid-cycle refresh, with styling and powertrain updates carrying through to 2011/2012.
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan
Production End Year:
2011 (with some models likely sold as 2012 model year vehicles in early production).