🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Applicable Years: 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005 Generation Second Generation Codes: AN Codes Vin Engine Code 2000 V6: X Vin Engine Code 2000 V8: Y Vin Engine Code 2001 V6: X Vin Engine Code 2001 V8: Y Vin Engine Code 2003 V6: N Vin Engine Code 2003 V8: P Vin Engine Code 2005 V6: N Vin Engine Code 2005 V8: P 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck Target Audience: Consumers seeking a versatile, capable, and relatively affordable pickup truck for work and personal use. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/S-15, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier Key Features Body Styles: Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab) Bed Lengths: Short Bed (6 ft), Long Bed (8 ft) Drivetrain Options: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Documentation Type: Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Primary Coverage: Dodge Dakota 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005 Model Years Trim Levels Covered: All trim levels including Base, Sport, SLT, SXT, R/T (where applicable) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission (Manual & Automatic) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear Disc/Drum), Wheels & Tires Electrical: Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Airbag System (SRS) Body: Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Restraints Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance schedules, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics Repair: Component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, adjustments and alignments Technical Specs: Torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic data, wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, component specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical system diagnostics and component-level repair. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval Image Quality: High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs Print Quality Printability: Printable pages for workshop use Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 3 9L V6 2000 2001: 3.9L OHV Magnum V6 (175 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm) Engine 5 2L V8 2000 2001: 5.2L OHV Magnum V8 (230 hp @ 4800 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm) Engine 4 7L V8 2003 2005: 4.7L OHV Magnum V8 (235 hp @ 4800 rpm, 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm - early 2003), revised to 240 hp and 300 lb-ft in later models. Engine 3 7L V6 2003 2005: 3.7L OHV Magnum V6 (210 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm) Performance R T Engine 2000 2001: 5.9L OHV Magnum V8 (245 hp @ 4500 rpm, 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm) Fuel System Induction: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on engine and year. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Standard 2000 2001: 4-Speed Automatic (42RE for V8, 45RFE for V6) Transmission Standard 2003 2005: 4-Speed Automatic (45RFE) Optional Transmission Optional 2000 2001: 5-Speed Manual (NV3500 for V6, NV4500 for V8) Transmission Optional 2003 2005: 5-Speed Manual (NV3500) Features Transfer Case 4Wd: Electronic Part-Time 4WD System (NV235 or NV244) Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec 42Re 45Rfe: ATF+4 (Mopar) Manual Transmission Fluid Spec: Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent GL-3/GL-4 rated fluid) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Regular Cab: 111.7 inches Wheelbase Club Cab: 124.2 inches Overall Length Short Bed: 196.5 inches Overall Length Long Bed: 217.5 inches Width Without Mirrors: 71.5 inches Height: 65.5 inches (approx.) Cargo Bed Width Between Wheelwells: 40.5 inches Weights Curb Weight Range: 3,800 - 4,500 lbs (approx.) Max Payload Capacity: 1,250 - 1,700 lbs (approx.) Max Towing Capacity: Up to 6,400 lbs (depending on configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger 2001: 5 Stars (based on 2001 data, may vary by specific model year and testing protocols) NHTSA Rollover Resistance 2001: 4 Stars (4x2), 3 Stars (4x4) (based on 2001 data) Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, especially 4WD. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Front Airbags Seatbelts: Front Seatbelt Pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio Systems: Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with optional premium sound systems, steering wheel mounted controls available on higher trims. Driver Assistance ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Connectivity Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including engine, chassis, body, and accessories. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer...
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Airbag System (SRS)
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical system diagnostics and component-level repair.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval
Image Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 3 9L V6 2000 2001:
3.9L OHV Magnum V6 (175 hp @ 4800 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)
Engine 5 2L V8 2000 2001:
5.2L OHV Magnum V8 (230 hp @ 4800 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)
Engine 4 7L V8 2003 2005:
4.7L OHV Magnum V8 (235 hp @ 4800 rpm, 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm - early 2003), revised to 240 hp and 300 lb-ft in later models.
Engine 3 7L V6 2003 2005:
3.7L OHV Magnum V6 (210 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)
Performance
R T Engine 2000 2001:
5.9L OHV Magnum V8 (245 hp @ 4500 rpm, 345 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm)
Fuel System
Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on engine and year.
5 Stars (based on 2001 data, may vary by specific model year and testing protocols)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance 2001:
4 Stars (4x2), 3 Stars (4x4) (based on 2001 data)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, especially 4WD.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags
Seatbelts:
Front Seatbelt Pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with optional premium sound systems, steering wheel mounted controls available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Connectivity
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including engine, chassis, body, and accessories.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on oil quality).
Engine Coolant Change:
Initial at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (or as per manual for specific coolant type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
V6: Approx. 100,000 miles (depending on plug type). V8: Approx. 100,000 miles (if equipped with platinum plugs, check manual).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (check manual for viscosity based on temperature range). Synthetic recommended.
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant. Do not mix OAT and HOAT coolants.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent
Known Issues
Typical Problems 2Nd Gen:
Radiator failure (plastic tanks cracking), intermittent ABS light, steering column clunk, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, rear main seal leaks (V8 engines), rust on rear wheel arches and cab corners.
Typical Problems 2003 Refresh:
Improved radiator designs, but still a common failure point. Some reports of PCM issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Dodge (division of Chrysler Corporation)
Model Evolution
Second Generation Introduction:
The second generation (AN platform) launched for the 1998 model year, featuring a significantly redesigned exterior and chassis. The manual covers the later iterations of this generation.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Saltillo, Mexico (primarily)
Model Year Changes 2003:
Significant refresh including new exterior styling (front fascia, grille, headlights, hood, fenders), updated interior, new engine options (3.7L V6, 4.7L V8), revised suspension, and improved HVAC.
Model Year Changes 2005:
Minor updates, continued from the 2003 refresh. Sport trim often included body-colored bumpers and grille.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Popular Mechanics Editors Choice Award:
The Dodge Dakota received an 'Editor's Choice Award' from Popular Mechanics for its performance and capability in its class around the time of its second-generation debut.
Ratings
Consumer Guide Best Buy:
The Dakota was often cited as a 'Best Buy' in the compact/mid-size truck segment by publications like Consumer Guide for its value and performance, particularly in its early second-generation years.