🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year: 2005 Codes Platform: Second Generation (AN) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size Pickup Truck Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier. Key Features Distinctive Features: Unique Magnaflow exhaust system (optional on some trims), available V8 engine in its class, robust chassis and suspension. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Complete service and repair for all systems and components. Page Count Estimated Pages: 2500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF, printable) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, transmission, drivetrain, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system. Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), wheels and tires. Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, HVAC controls, power accessories, body control modules, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Body: Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, safety restraints, HVAC system operation, exterior and interior lighting. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections. Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, symptom analysis, fault finding. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) with searchable text. Print Quality Illustration Clarity: High-resolution factory illustrations and diagrams. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine 2.4L I4: Engine Code: 2.4L DOHC I4 (GEMA engine family). Horsepower: Approx. 142 hp @ 5200 rpm. Torque: Approx. 159 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. 3.7L V6: Engine Code: 3.7L SOHC V6 (successor to the 3.9L). Horsepower: Approx. 210 hp @ 5200 rpm. Torque: Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. 4.7L V8: Engine Code: 4.7L SOHC V8 (Magnum). Horsepower: Approx. 230 hp @ 4600 rpm. Torque: Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm. Performance Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Technical Specs Bore X Stroke 2.4L: 87.5 mm x 96 mm Bore X Stroke 3.7L: 91.1 mm x 95 mm Bore X Stroke 4.7L: 93 mm x 86.5 mm 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed manual (Getrag G285) on 2.4L and 3.7L. Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed automatic (42RLE) on 2.4L. 4-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE) on 3.7L and 4.7L. Features Drivetrain Options: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Std Cab: 111.7 inches Wheelbase Extended Cab: 124.5 inches Overall Length Std Bed: 196.8 inches Overall Length Long Bed: 210.5 inches Width: 72.5 inches Height: 66.6 inches Cargo Bed Length Std: 71.7 inches Bed Length Long: 85.5 inches Weights Curb Weight Min: Approx. 3,700 lbs (2.4L RWD) Curb Weight Max: Approx. 4,500 lbs (4.7L 4WD) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver: 5-Star NHTSA Frontal Passenger: 5-Star IIHS Front Offset: Good (for models equipped with side airbags) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels. Traction Control: Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side-impact airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Base AM/FM/CD player. Optional premium audio systems with CD changer and amplifier were available. Navigation: Not widely available on this generation; primarily aftermarket or dealer-installed options. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control on most trims. Trailer Tow Package: Available trailer tow package with enhanced cooling and wiring for trailer lights and brakes. Connectivity Power Accessories: Power windows, power locks, and power mirrors were available on higher trims. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic blend oil. Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L: Every 100,000 miles (use recommended spark plug type). Spark Plug Replacement V6 V8: Every 100,000 miles (use recommended spark plug type). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Spec 2.4L V6: SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher. Engine Oil Spec 4.7L V8: SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher. Coolant Type: HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix. Transmission Fluid 42Rle: ATF+4 (Mopar) Transmission Fluid 45Rfe 545Rfe: ATF+4 (Mopar) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings (due to truck usage). Engine Issues: Potential for plenum gasket leaks on the 4.7L V8, though less common than in earlier models. Transmission Issues: Occasional torque converter shudder or internal wear on automatic transmissions with high mileage. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Dodge Truck Legacy: Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century. Model Evolution Second Gen Debut: The second generation (AN) of the Dakota...
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings (due to truck usage).
Engine Issues:
Potential for plenum gasket leaks on the 4.7L V8, though less common than in earlier models.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional torque converter shudder or internal wear on automatic transmissions with high mileage.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing reputation for building rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the early 20th century.
Model Evolution
Second Gen Debut:
The second generation (AN) of the Dakota debuted in 1997, offering a larger size and more powerful engine options compared to its predecessor.
2005 Updates:
The 2005 model year received a significant mid-cycle refresh, including updated exterior styling, a revised interior, and the introduction of the 3.7L V6 engine as a replacement for the outgoing 3.9L V6.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Warren, Michigan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motor Trend Award:
While not a specific award for the 2005 model, MotorTrend has historically recognized Dodge trucks for their performance and capability.
Ratings
Konsumen Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by powertrain and specific year; the manual provides information to address common maintenance needs.