🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 2003 Chassis Code: AN 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 2003 Dodge Dakota was a compact pickup truck known for offering a V8 engine option, which was a significant differentiator in its class at the time. It competed with models like the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, and Toyota Tacoma. Competitive Analysis Segment: Compact Pickup Truck Key Features Engine Options: The availability of a robust V8 engine (the 4.7L Magnum V8) was a major selling point, providing superior towing and hauling capability compared to many competitors offering only inline-four or V6 engines. Body Styles: Available in Regular Cab and Club Cab (extended cab) configurations, with short and long bed options. Drivetrain: Offered in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Parts Catalog Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies significantly based on specific sub-models and options, typically hundreds to over a thousand pages. Manual Type Type: Parts Catalog Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine assemblies, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission components (manual and automatic), transfer case (if applicable). Chassis: Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, braking system (front and rear), wheels and tires, frame and body structure components. Electrical: Wiring harnesses, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, sensors, actuators, body control modules, infotainment components. Body: Exterior panels (hood, fenders, doors, tailgate), bumpers, grille, glass, mirrors, interior trim, seating, HVAC components, body hardware. Accessories: Factory-installed accessories, optional equipment, towing components, bed liners, tonneau covers. Procedures Included Part Identification: Detailed diagrams and exploded views of all vehicle components, with corresponding part numbers for ordering. Assembly Disassembly: Illustrations demonstrating how various sub-assemblies are put together, aiding in part selection for repair or restoration. Interchangeability: Implied information for identifying correct parts for specific configurations, though direct interchangeability guides are not the primary focus of a parts catalog. Technical Depth Depth: Highly detailed for parts identification and selection. Does not provide repair procedures or diagnostic information, but is essential for acquiring correct parts for repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text for printing. Binding Type Binding: Not applicable (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: Not applicable (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC) Engine 2: 2.5L Magnum Inline-4 (OHV) Engine 3: 3.9L Magnum V6 (OHV) Engine 1 Displacement Engine 1: 4.7 Liters (287 cubic inches) Horsepower Engine 1: Approx. 235 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque Engine 1: Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Engine 2 Displacement Engine 2: 2.5 Liters (152 cubic inches) Horsepower Engine 2: Approx. 120 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque Engine 2: Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Engine 3 Displacement Engine 3: 3.9 Liters (238 cubic inches) Horsepower Engine 3: Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque Engine 3: Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines. Cooling System Coolant Type: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) Ignition System Spark Plugs: Refer to manual for specific part numbers (e.g., Champion, NGK) based on engine. Gap specification critical. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Standard Inline 4: 5-speed manual transmission (NV1500) Transmission Standard V6: 4-speed automatic transmission (42RE) Optional Transmission Optional V8: 4-speed automatic transmission (45RFE / 48RE) Transmission Optional Manual V6 V8: 4-speed automatic transmission (42RE for V6, 45RFE for V8) Features Transfer Case 4Wd: New Process Gear (NP) 231 (2WD or 4WD models) or NV244 (4WD with electronic shift on the fly for V8 models). Fluid Type Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (Mopar) Manual Transmission Fluid: Refer to manual for specific gear oil specification (e.g., SAE 75W-90). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Regular Cab: 111.7 inches Wheelbase Club Cab: 124.7 inches Bed Length Short: 6.3 feet Bed Length Long: 8.0 feet Weights Curb Weight: Varies by configuration, typically 3,700 - 4,500 lbs. Max Payload: Up to approx. 1,400 - 1,600 lbs. Max Towing Capacity: Up to approx. 6,900 lbs. (with V8 and appropriate towing package) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver 1: Good (for driver in frontal offset crash) NHTSA Frontal Passenger 1: Good (for passenger in frontal offset crash) NHTSA Side Driver 1: Acceptable (for driver in side impact crash) NHTSA Side Rear Passenger 1: Acceptable (for rear passenger in side impact crash) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels. Passive Features Airbags Front: Driver and passenger front airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point seat belts for all occupants. Pretensioners for front seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory radio options typically included AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player. Optional premium sound systems available. Speakers: Base models often had 4 speakers; higher trims could have 6 or 8 speakers....
The 2003 Dodge Dakota was a compact pickup truck known for offering a V8 engine option, which was a significant differentiator in its class at the time. It competed with models like the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, and Toyota Tacoma.
Competitive Analysis
Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Key Features
Engine Options:
The availability of a robust V8 engine (the 4.7L Magnum V8) was a major selling point, providing superior towing and hauling capability compared to many competitors offering only inline-four or V6 engines.
Body Styles:
Available in Regular Cab and Club Cab (extended cab) configurations, with short and long bed options.
Drivetrain:
Offered in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Parts Catalog
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Varies significantly based on specific sub-models and options, typically hundreds to over a thousand pages.
Manual Type
Type:
Parts Catalog
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine assemblies, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission components (manual and automatic), transfer case (if applicable).
Chassis:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, braking system (front and rear), wheels and tires, frame and body structure components.
Electrical:
Wiring harnesses, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, sensors, actuators, body control modules, infotainment components.
Factory-installed accessories, optional equipment, towing components, bed liners, tonneau covers.
Procedures Included
Part Identification:
Detailed diagrams and exploded views of all vehicle components, with corresponding part numbers for ordering.
Assembly Disassembly:
Illustrations demonstrating how various sub-assemblies are put together, aiding in part selection for repair or restoration.
Interchangeability:
Implied information for identifying correct parts for specific configurations, though direct interchangeability guides are not the primary focus of a parts catalog.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Highly detailed for parts identification and selection. Does not provide repair procedures or diagnostic information, but is essential for acquiring correct parts for repairs.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text for printing.
Binding Type
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Not applicable (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1:
4.7L Magnum V8 (SOHC)
Engine 2:
2.5L Magnum Inline-4 (OHV)
Engine 3:
3.9L Magnum V6 (OHV)
Engine 1
Displacement Engine 1:
4.7 Liters (287 cubic inches)
Horsepower Engine 1:
Approx. 235 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque Engine 1:
Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine 2
Displacement Engine 2:
2.5 Liters (152 cubic inches)
Horsepower Engine 2:
Approx. 120 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Engine 2:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Engine 3
Displacement Engine 3:
3.9 Liters (238 cubic inches)
Horsepower Engine 3:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque Engine 3:
Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green)
Ignition System
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual for specific part numbers (e.g., Champion, NGK) based on engine. Gap specification critical.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Standard Inline 4:
5-speed manual transmission (NV1500)
Transmission Standard V6:
4-speed automatic transmission (42RE)
Optional
Transmission Optional V8:
4-speed automatic transmission (45RFE / 48RE)
Transmission Optional Manual V6 V8:
4-speed automatic transmission (42RE for V6, 45RFE for V8)
Features
Transfer Case 4Wd:
New Process Gear (NP) 231 (2WD or 4WD models) or NV244 (4WD with electronic shift on the fly for V8 models).
Fluid Type
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specification (e.g., SAE 75W-90).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
111.7 inches
Wheelbase Club Cab:
124.7 inches
Bed Length Short:
6.3 feet
Bed Length Long:
8.0 feet
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, typically 3,700 - 4,500 lbs.
Max Payload:
Up to approx. 1,400 - 1,600 lbs.
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to approx. 6,900 lbs. (with V8 and appropriate towing package)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver 1:
Good (for driver in frontal offset crash)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger 1:
Good (for passenger in frontal offset crash)
NHTSA Side Driver 1:
Acceptable (for driver in side impact crash)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger 1:
Acceptable (for rear passenger in side impact crash)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants. Pretensioners for front seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory radio options typically included AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player. Optional premium sound systems available.
Speakers:
Base models often had 4 speakers; higher trims could have 6 or 8 speakers.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trim levels.
Towing Features:
Factory tow packages often included trailer brake controller wiring, a heavier-duty alternator, and a transmission oil cooler.
Connectivity
Power Outlets:
12V auxiliary power outlets in the dashboard.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Frequency:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to owner's manual for specific recommendation based on oil quality.
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with oil change. Common part numbers include Mopar MO-899, Fram PH3731, Wix 51515.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment. Common part numbers include Mopar 52080353AB, Fram CA8357, Wix 42748.
Spark Plug Replacement:
For 4.7L V8: Approx. 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium plugs). For 3.9L V6 & 2.5L I4: Refer to manual, typically shorter intervals.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions (ATF+4). Manual transmission fluid inspection/change at similar intervals.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity 4.7L:
5.2 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.9L:
5.0 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
5.0 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 recommended for most conditions (check manual). 10W-30 may be acceptable in warmer climates.
Known Issues
Heater Core Leaks:
Can be prone to heater core leaks, especially in higher mileage vehicles, leading to coolant loss and fogging windows.
Oil Cooler Lines:
Potential for leaks in the automatic transmission oil cooler lines, especially at the transmission connection.
Front Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links can wear prematurely, leading to clunking noises and steering looseness.
Radiator Failure:
Plastic-tank radiators can develop leaks over time, particularly at the seams.
PCM Issues:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failures or software glitches have been reported on some models.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing trucks, dating back to the 1930s. The Dakota, introduced in 1987, was Dodge's first mid-size pickup truck, designed to fill a gap between smaller Japanese imports and larger American trucks.
Model Evolution
Second Generation:
The 2003 model year is part of the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, which ran from 1997 to 2004. This generation saw significant redesigns, including a larger overall size, a more robust frame, and the introduction of the powerful 4.7L Magnum V8 engine.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Truck Of The Year:
While specific individual awards for the 2003 model may vary, the Dodge Dakota line consistently received positive attention for its V8 power and capability within the compact truck segment.
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