🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 2008 Body Style: Pickup Truck Market Segment: Mid-size Pickup Truck Generation Generation Code: Fourth Generation (2005-2011) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 2008 Dodge Dakota was positioned as a capable, domestically produced mid-size pickup truck, often competing with the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma. It offered a balance of utility and comfort, with a distinct American styling. Competitive Analysis Key Rivals: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier. Key Features Distinctive Features: Available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. Offered a choice of V6 and V8 engines, distinguishing it from some smaller mid-size competitors. Known for its robust design and towing capacity relative to its class. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Overview: Comprehensive coverage of 2008 Dodge Dakota Truck operation, maintenance, and features. Specific Sections: Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for an owner's manual of this era and scope). Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition, emission controls (as applicable to owner operation). Chassis: Brake system overview, steering system overview, suspension components (as they relate to owner checks). Electrical: Lighting controls, instrument cluster functions, battery care, basic fuse identification (for user-replaceable fuses). Comfort And Convenience: Climate control operation, power windows, power locks, seat adjustment, audio system operation, keyless entry. Safety And Security Restraints: Airbag system operation, seat belt usage and care, child seat installation guidelines. Security Features: Immobilizer system, anti-theft alarm (if equipped). Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement instructions, air filter replacement guidelines. Emergency Procedures: Jump starting the vehicle, changing a flat tire, basic troubleshooting for warning lights. Owner Adjustments: Headlight aim adjustment (basic), mirror adjustment, steering wheel adjustment. Technical Depth Depth: Owner-focused, covering operation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting of common issues. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repair or diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Compatibility: Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader, or built-in browser capabilities). Print Quality Quality: Digital, factory original quality. Text is typically searchable, and images/diagrams are clear. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Description: 3.7L Magnum V6 Engine 1 Displacement: 3701 cc (226 cubic inches) Engine 1 Configuration: SOHC V6 Engine 1 Horsepower: 210 hp @ 5200 rpm Engine 1 Torque: 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Secondary Engine Engine 2 Description: 4.7L Magnum V8 Engine 2 Displacement: 4701 cc (287 cubic inches) Engine 2 Configuration: SOHC V8 Engine 2 Horsepower: 230 hp @ 5200 rpm (early models), 255 hp @ 5200 rpm (later models, depending on specific calibration) Engine 2 Torque: 290 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (early models), 330 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (later models) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission 1: 4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) Optional Transmission 2: 6-Speed Manual (NV3500) Features Transmission Features: Tow/Haul mode on automatic transmissions for improved towing performance. Electronic range selection for 4WD models. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Regular Cab: 113.1 inches (2873 mm) Wheelbase Extended Cab Quad Cab: 131.3 inches (3335 mm) Bed Length Standard: 6.25 feet (approx. 75 inches) Bed Length Long: 8.0 feet (approx. 96 inches) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately 4,000 - 4,700 lbs (1814 - 2132 kg), varies by configuration. Towing Capacity Max: Up to 7,000 lbs (3175 kg) for properly equipped V8 models. Payload Capacity Max: Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg), varies by configuration. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating: Not rated or 4-star (check specific NHTSA data for exact vehicle configuration). NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating: Not rated or 4-star (check specific NHTSA data for exact vehicle configuration). IIHS Front Offset Rating: Acceptable or Good (check specific IIHS data for exact vehicle configuration). Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels. Traction Control: Available Traction Control (TCS). Stability Control: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was optional or standard on certain trims/configurations. Passive Features Airbags Front: Driver and front-passenger airbags. Airbags Side: Available front side-impact airbags. Seat Belts: 3-point active seat belts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional MP3 playback, Sirius Satellite Radio. Higher trims could feature premium audio systems. Navigation: Optional DVD-based navigation system was available on higher trim levels. Driver Assistance Cruise Control:...
The 2008 Dodge Dakota was positioned as a capable, domestically produced mid-size pickup truck, often competing with the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma. It offered a balance of utility and comfort, with a distinct American styling.
Competitive Analysis
Key Rivals:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier.
Key Features
Distinctive Features:
Available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. Offered a choice of V6 and V8 engines, distinguishing it from some smaller mid-size competitors. Known for its robust design and towing capacity relative to its class.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Overview:
Comprehensive coverage of 2008 Dodge Dakota Truck operation, maintenance, and features.
Specific Sections:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for an owner's manual of this era and scope).
Owner-focused, covering operation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting of common issues. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repair or diagnostic procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Compatibility:
Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader, or built-in browser capabilities).
Print Quality
Quality:
Digital, factory original quality. Text is typically searchable, and images/diagrams are clear.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Description:
3.7L Magnum V6
Engine 1 Displacement:
3701 cc (226 cubic inches)
Engine 1 Configuration:
SOHC V6
Engine 1 Horsepower:
210 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Secondary Engine
Engine 2 Description:
4.7L Magnum V8
Engine 2 Displacement:
4701 cc (287 cubic inches)
Engine 2 Configuration:
SOHC V8
Engine 2 Horsepower:
230 hp @ 5200 rpm (early models), 255 hp @ 5200 rpm (later models, depending on specific calibration)
Dexron III/Mercon equivalent or SAE 75W-90 synthetic.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Leaking valve cover gaskets, PCM (Powertrain Control Module) issues, potential for front-end component wear (ball joints, tie rods) due to vehicle weight and use, rust on the body (especially in areas with road salt).
Part Numbers
Oil Filter V6 Example:
Mopar: MO-899 / Wix: 57899 / Fram: PH373.
Oil Filter V8 Example:
Mopar: MO-349 / Wix: 51500 / Fram: PH8A.
Air Filter Example:
Mopar: 53034253AA / Wix: 49008 / Fram: CA8001.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Dakota nameplate was introduced in 1987 as Dodge's first mid-size pickup, filling a gap between the full-size Ram and smaller compact trucks.
Model Evolution
Third Generation Intro:
The fourth generation of the Dodge Dakota, introduced for the 2005 model year, was a significant redesign, featuring a larger platform and more powerful engine options, including the introduction of a V8 engine to the mid-size segment.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan.
Production Years For Gen:
2005-2011
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Past Awards:
While specific awards for the 2008 model are not prominently documented, the Dodge Dakota has historically been recognized for its V8 engine offerings and towing capabilities within the mid-size truck segment.