🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Model Years Covered: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck Key Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier Competitive Analysis Unique Selling Points: Strong V8 engine option (4.7L Magnum), distinctive styling, competitive pricing Key Features Body Styles: Regular Cab, Club Cab (Extended Cab) Bed Lengths: Short Bed (approx. 6 ft), Long Bed (approx. 8 ft) Payload Capacity: Up to ~1,600 lbs (Varies by configuration) Towing Capacity: Up to ~6,750 lbs (Varies by configuration and engine) 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Engine Options Covered: 2.5L I4, 3.9L V6, 4.7L V8 Transmission Options Covered: 4-speed Automatic (42RE, 45RFE), 5-speed Manual (NV1500, NV3500) Drivetrain Options Covered: 2WD (RWD), 4WD (4x4) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system Engine Performance: Fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems (OBD-II), starting and charging system Transmission Manual: Clutch system, transmission assembly, shift mechanism, torque specifications Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission operation, hydraulic controls, valve body, torque converter, service and overhaul Drivetrain: Front and rear axles, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case (4WD) Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles, alignment specifications Steering: Steering column, power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, linkages Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, accessories, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams Body Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, dashboard Body Exterior: Bumpers, grille, fenders, hood, tailgate, bed liner, exterior trim, paint and finish HVAC: Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant handling Diagnostics: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, troubleshooting charts Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, belt inspection Major Repairs: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues Component Replacement: Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all mechanical and electrical components Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Complete factory-level repair and diagnostic information Detail Level: Includes detailed torque specifications, component clearances, and diagnostic parameters Diagrams And Illustrations: Numerous exploded views, assembly diagrams, and electrical schematics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchable: Yes Printable: Yes Print Quality Image Clarity: High-resolution, clear images and diagrams Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Base Engine: 2.5L Magnum I4 (8-valve) 2.5L I4 Horsepower: 120 hp @ 4800 rpm 2.5L I4 Torque: 155 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Optional Engine 1 Optional Engine 1: 3.9L Magnum V6 (12-valve) 3.9L V6 Horsepower: 175 hp @ 4800 rpm 3.9L V6 Torque: 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Optional Engine 2 Optional Engine 2: 4.7L Magnum V8 (16-valve OHV) 4.7L V8 Horsepower: 230 hp @ 4800 rpm 4.7L V8 Torque: 300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) Recommended Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual) Performance 0-60 Mph Estimate: Approx. 7.5-10 seconds (Varies by engine and configuration) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual (NV1500 on 2.5L, NV3500 on 3.9L/4.7L) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic (42RE on 3.9L, 45RFE on 4.7L) Features Automatic Transmission Features: Electronically controlled, Overdrive Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid Type: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Consult manual for specific units) Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+4 (MS-9602) (Consult manual for specific units) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 111.9 inches (Regular Cab), 124.9 inches (Club Cab) Overall Length: Varies by bed length and cab configuration (Approx. 197-219 inches) Overall Width: Approx. 71.6 inches Overall Height: Approx. 66.7 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,600 - 4,200 lbs (Varies by configuration) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Varies by configuration (e.g., 5,300 lbs for some models) Cargo Bed Volume: Approx. 45.5 cu ft (Short Bed), 55.5 cu ft (Long Bed) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Rating 2Wd: 3 Stars (2003 Model, consult specific year for exact ratings) NHTSA Rollover Rating 4Wd: 4 Stars (2003 Model, consult specific year for exact ratings) Active Features ABS: Standard on most models, optional on some base configurations Traction Control: Optional on some models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard Seat Belts: Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers in Club Cab 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo with CD player (optional), cassette player (early models/trims), optional premium audio systems Navigation: Not typically available from factory; aftermarket options common Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trims Connectivity Power...
Cracked cylinder heads on early 4.7L V8 engines (often addressed by updated designs or modifications).
Common Issue 2:
Worn front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) due to load and usage.
Common Issue 3:
Transmission issues, particularly with the 45RFE automatic, can include solenoid pack failures or torque converter problems.
Common Issue 4:
Rust issues on the frame and body panels, especially in areas with road salt.
Common Issue 5:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to non-functional fan speeds.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler)
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second Generation Dodge Dakota (1997-2004)
Major Updates During Generation:
Introduction of the 4.7L V8 Magnum engine in 2000, revised interior and exterior styling in 2001.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA
Production Span For Model:
1987-2011 (across generations)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Truck Of The Year Awards:
While the Dakota didn't win major 'Truck of the Year' awards in this specific generation, it was recognized for its strong V8 performance and utility within the compact/mid-size segment.