🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 2009 Codes Platform: Chrysler SB-X platform (updated) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size Pickup Truck Target Audience: Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive technicians. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon. Key Features Vehicle Characteristics: Body-on-frame construction, available V6 and V8 engines, rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Manual Value Proposition: Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling cost-effective maintenance and accurate repairs. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models and All Repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling, emissions controls. Fuel System: Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, evaporative emissions (EVAP). Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power distribution, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM). Powertrain Control: Engine control module (ECM/PCM) diagnostics, sensors, actuators, programming. Transmission: Automatic Transmission (42RLE, 45RFE/545RFE) repair, diagnostics, fluid service, control systems. Drivetrain: Front axle, rear axle, transfer case (4WD models), driveshafts, CV joints, universal joints. Suspension: Front independent suspension (short/long arm), rear solid axle, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering linkage. Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, power booster. Steering: Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tilt wheel mechanisms. HVAC: Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant, diagnostics. Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, headliner, structural components. Restraint Systems: Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pretensioners, diagnostics. Diagnostics: OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, diagnostic flowcharts. Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt replacement, spark plug replacement. Repair Procedures: Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts for various symptoms (e.g., no-start, poor performance, electrical faults). Diagnostic Tools: Guidance on using scan tools, multimeters, and specialized diagnostic equipment. Specifications: Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed, system-specific wiring schematics with component identification. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and component replacement. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution for clear text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Type: 3.7L Magnum V6 (210 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm) Engine 2 Type: 4.7L Magnum V8 (2009: 290 hp @ 5600 rpm, 330 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm - updated for 2009) Performance Engine 1 Bore X Stroke: 3.66 x 3.36 in (93.0 x 85.3 mm) Engine 2 Bore X Stroke: 3.92 x 3.31 in (99.5 x 84.0 mm) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating 87 recommended) Emissions Control: Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, secondary air injection (on some models), evaporative emission control (EVAP) system. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type V6: 4-speed automatic (42RLE) Optional Transmission Type V8: 5-speed automatic (45RFE / 545RFE) Features Transfer Case 4Wd: NV233 HD (2-speed manual shift) or NV244 (2-speed electronic shift on demand) Transmission Fluid Spec 42Rle: ATF+4 (Mopar) Transmission Fluid Spec 45Rfe 545Rfe: ATF+4 (Mopar) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Std Cab: 120.0 inches (3048 mm) Wheelbase Extended Cab: 131.3 inches (3335 mm) Bed Length Short: 75.2 inches (1910 mm) Bed Length Long: 97.2 inches (2469 mm) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 4,100 - 4,800 lbs (1860 - 2177 kg) Towing Capacity Max: Up to 7,450 lbs (3379 kg) depending on configuration Payload Capacity Max: Up to 1,930 lbs (875 kg) depending on configuration 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Resistance Score: 3 stars (2009 model year typical for this class) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels. Traction Control: Electronic Traction Control (ETC) available on some trims, especially with 4WD. Passive Features Airbags: Advanced front airbags for driver and passenger, available front-seat side airbags. Seat Belts: Three-point seat belts in all seating positions, pretensioners for front occupants. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, optional Infinity premium audio system. Navigation: Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels. Driver Assistance Parking Assistance: Optional rear parking sensors available. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Standard auxiliary audio input jack on most models for connecting external devices. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions. Engine Air Filter Replacement: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection. Spark Plug Replacement V6:...
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors available.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack on most models for connecting external devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Champion Double Platinum spark plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Champion Double Platinum spark plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher (Chrysler MS-6395)
Engine Oil Type V8:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher (Chrysler MS-6395)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769 (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Issue Cluster Gauge Lights:
Intermittent or complete failure of gauge cluster illumination due to failing bulbs or circuit board issues.
Common Issue Transmission Hard Shifting:
Some owners report rough or delayed shifting, particularly in the 42RLE transmission, which may require transmission control module (TCM) adjustments or internal repairs.
Common Issue Rust On Frame:
In areas with road salt, frame rust can be a concern, especially around suspension mounting points and the rear frame rails.
Common Issue Radiator Leaks:
Cracks in the plastic end tanks of the radiator can lead to coolant leaks.
Common Issue 4.7L V8 Oil Sludge:
The 4.7L V8 engine can be susceptible to oil sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected or if low-quality oil is used.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, known for their 'Ram' trucks.
Model Evolution
Second Generation Launch:
The second generation Dakota, introduced for the 2005 model year, was a significant redesign, becoming the first mid-size truck to offer a V8 engine and increasing in size and capability.
2009 Updates:
The 2009 model received styling updates, including a revised grille and front fascia. The 4.7L V8 was updated for increased horsepower and torque. New features like an integrated trailer brake controller were introduced.