🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 1996 Generation Generation Designation: Second Generation (AN) Codes Chassis Code: AN 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1996: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody Key Features Vehicle Highlights: Offered a more powerful engine option than many compact competitors, rugged styling, available V8 in later models (not this year). 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Scope: Complete Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Service Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Yes, including diagnosis, overhaul, and component specifications for all available engines. Engine Control System: Yes, covering ignition, fuel injection, emissions control, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Transmission Manual: Yes, including repair, adjustment, and fluid specifications for manual transmissions. Transmission Automatic: Yes, including repair, adjustment, and fluid specifications for automatic transmissions. Drivetrain Axles Differentials: Yes, covering front and rear axle assemblies, differentials, and drive shafts. Suspension System: Yes, including front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, and specifications. Steering System: Yes, covering power steering system diagnosis, repair, and steering gear specifications. Brake System: Yes, including ABS (if equipped), hydraulic components, disc and drum brake service, and specifications. Electrical System Power Distribution: Yes, covering battery, charging system, starting system, and wiring diagrams. Lighting System: Yes, covering headlamps, taillamps, interior lighting, and related circuits. Instrumentation Gauges: Yes, covering the function, diagnosis, and repair of instrument cluster components. Body Exterior: Yes, covering doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, and exterior trim repair. Body Interior: Yes, covering seats, dashboard, upholstery, and interior trim components. HVAC System: Yes, covering air conditioning and heating system diagnosis and repair. Chassis And Frame: Yes, covering frame inspection and repair procedures. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Yes, including oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks. Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Yes, with step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common faults. Component Replacement: Yes, detailed instructions for replacing virtually all mechanical and electrical components. Engine Rebuilding: Yes, comprehensive rebuild procedures with detailed specifications. Transmission Overhaul: Yes, step-by-step overhaul procedures for automatic and manual transmissions. Brake System Service: Yes, including pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, and bleeding procedures. Electrical Troubleshooting: Yes, utilizing detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic charts. Suspension Alignment: Yes, with specifications for camber, caster, and toe. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Diagnostic Tools Mentioned: Mentions specific Chrysler/Dodge diagnostic tools and procedures for the era. Special Tool Requirements: Lists required special tools for specific repair procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable if properly scanned and indexed. Print Quality Printability: Designed for digital viewing and printing of specific pages as needed. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.5L I4 (ID code: H01), 3.9L V6 Magnum (ID code: E61) Performance 2.5L I4 Horsepower: Approx. 123 hp @ 4800 rpm 2.5L I4 Torque: Approx. 138 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm 3.9Lv6 Horsepower: Approx. 175 hp @ 4800 rpm 3.9Lv6 Torque: Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Engine Cooling Cooling System Type: Pressurized Liquid Cooling 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (A500/42RE) Features Drivetrain Options: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Short Bed: 111.9 inches (2842 mm) Wheelbase Long Bed: 124.9 inches (3172 mm) Bed Length Short: 6.2 feet (1.89 m) Bed Length Long: 7.5 feet (2.29 m) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 3,300 - 4,000 lbs (1497 - 1814 kg), varies by configuration. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver Rating: Not rated by NHTSA for this model year in readily available public archives. IIHS Crash Test Rating: Not rated by IIHS for this model year. Active Features ABS: Optional, typically on higher trims or 4WD models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger airbags standard. Seatbelts: Front: Three-point height-adjustable. Rear: Lap belts for center, three-point for outboards (on extended cabs). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trims. Anti Lock Brakes: Optional, typically on 4WD and V6 models. Connectivity Bluetooth Usb Ports: N/A (Not available on this model year). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Air Filter Replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Spark Plug Replacement: 2.5L I4: Approx. 30,000 miles. 3.9L V6: Approx. 30,000 miles. (Check manual for specific plug type and gap). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 API...