🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Dakota Year Range: 2003 onwards 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Type: Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck Target Audience: DIY mechanics, professional technicians, and vehicle owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado/Canyon, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier Key Features Manual Strength: Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds Manual Benefit: Empowers users to perform repairs efficiently and accurately, saving time and money 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: Instant Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Service: Complete engine rebuilding and repair procedures Electrical Diagrams: Detailed wiring diagrams for all systems Transmission Service: Repair and overhaul procedures for all transmission types Chassis And Suspension: Steering, suspension, and drivetrain component service Brakes And Wheel Bearings: Brake system diagnostics, repair, and wheel bearing service Body And Frame: Body panel repair, door mechanisms, and frame diagnostics HVAC System: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair Fuel System: Fuel tank, pump, lines, and injection system service Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and fan service Exhaust System: Muffler, catalytic converter, and pipe replacement and repair Lighting And Accessories: Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and accessory wiring Procedures Included Troubleshooting Guides: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and lubrication schedules Component Rebuilds: Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major components Component Replacement: Guidance on replacing all major and minor vehicle components Wiring Repairs: Detailed instructions for identifying, repairing, and re-wiring electrical circuits Technical Depth Diagnostics: Advanced diagnostic procedures and fault code interpretation Repair Procedures: Comprehensive repair instructions for all vehicle systems Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and technical data Diagrams And Illustrations: Step-by-step diagrams and exploded views for clarity 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Digital (likely PDF) Searchability: Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval Print Quality Image Resolution: Designed for clear viewing of diagrams and text Binding Type Binding: N/A (Instant Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.5L (150 cu in) AMC 150 I4, 3.7L (226 cu in) Power-Tech V6, 4.7L (287 cu in) Magnum V8 Bore X Stroke 2 5L: 3.88 x 3.39 inches (98.5 x 86.1 mm) Bore X Stroke 3 7L: 3.66 x 3.13 inches (93.0 x 79.5 mm) Bore X Stroke 4 7L: 3.70 x 3.37 inches (94.0 x 85.5 mm) Performance Horsepower 2 5L: Approx. 120-122 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm Torque 2 5L: Approx. 145-148 lb-ft @ 3200-3400 rpm Horsepower 3 7L: Approx. 210-215 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque 3 7L: Approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Horsepower 4 7L: Approx. 230-235 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm Torque 4 7L: Approx. 295-300 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Recommended Octane: 87 octane minimum (higher recommended for 4.7L V8 under heavy load) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Options: 5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic (42RE), 5-Speed Automatic (545RFE) Optional Transmission Variations: Availability of manual and automatic transmissions varied by engine and trim level Features 4X4 Transfer Case: Available with part-time 4WD system (NV241DLD or NV243HD) Gear Ratios Example 545Rfe: First: 3.16, Second: 2.23, Third: 1.54, Fourth: 1.00, Fifth: 0.75, Reverse: 2.03 Transmission Fluid Spec 42Re: ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9227 or MS-9602) Transmission Fluid Spec 545Rfe: ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Short Bed: Approx. 113.9 inches (2893 mm) Wheelbase Long Bed: Approx. 124.7 inches (3167 mm) Overall Length Short Bed: Approx. 192.4 inches (4887 mm) Overall Length Long Bed: Approx. 203.2 inches (5161 mm) Cargo Bed Length Short Bed: Approx. 71.7 inches (1821 mm) Bed Length Long Bed: Approx. 82.1 inches (2085 mm) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 3,700 - 4,500 lbs (1678 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration Max Payload Capacity: Up to approx. 1,730 lbs (785 kg) Max Towing Capacity: Up to approx. 6,500 lbs (2948 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: Four Stars (for models with dual front airbags) NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger: Four Stars (for models with dual front airbags) NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat: Five Stars (for models with side airbags, if equipped) IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating: Acceptable (for models tested) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional traction control system available on some models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard; optional side curtain airbags on some later models Seat Belts: Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners; three-point rear seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound systems, satellite radio readiness on some models Display Technology: Basic digital displays for odometer, trip computer, and system warnings Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control system Anti Theft System: Factory immobilizer system...
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9227 or MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Spec 545Rfe:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Short Bed:
Approx. 113.9 inches (2893 mm)
Wheelbase Long Bed:
Approx. 124.7 inches (3167 mm)
Overall Length Short Bed:
Approx. 192.4 inches (4887 mm)
Overall Length Long Bed:
Approx. 203.2 inches (5161 mm)
Cargo
Bed Length Short Bed:
Approx. 71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Bed Length Long Bed:
Approx. 82.1 inches (2085 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,700 - 4,500 lbs (1678 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration
Max Payload Capacity:
Up to approx. 1,730 lbs (785 kg)
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to approx. 6,500 lbs (2948 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Four Stars (for models with dual front airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Four Stars (for models with dual front airbags)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Five Stars (for models with side airbags, if equipped)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (for models tested)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional traction control system available on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard; optional side curtain airbags on some later models
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners; three-point rear seat belts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound systems, satellite radio readiness on some models
Display Technology:
Basic digital displays for odometer, trip computer, and system warnings
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system
Anti Theft System:
Factory immobilizer system
Connectivity
Power Outlets:
12V accessory power outlets in the cabin
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (4,800-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with high-quality platinum or iridium plugs
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as specified in the manual
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity 2 5L:
10W-30 (check manual for exact temperature ranges)
Engine Oil Viscosity 3 7L 4 7L:
5W-30 (check manual for exact temperature ranges)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Orange) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (5/150)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic end tanks on radiators can develop cracks over time.
Ignition Coil Failure:
Coil-on-plug ignition systems, particularly on V8 engines, can experience failures.
Ball Joint Wear:
Front suspension ball joints can wear prematurely, leading to clunking noises and alignment issues.
Water Pump Leaks:
Water pumps may develop leaks, particularly around the shaft seal.
Window Regulator Failure:
Power window regulators can fail, making it difficult to raise or lower the windows.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Model Evolution
Dakota Generation 2:
The 2003 model year marks the second generation of the Dodge Dakota, which debuted in 1997 and received a significant refresh for 2000.
Dakota Platform:
The second-generation Dakota utilized a unique ladder frame chassis, larger than typical compact trucks of its era, positioning it as a 'mid-size' compact.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan, USA
Production Years 2Nd Gen:
1997-2004
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:
N/A for this specific year/generation, but Dodge trucks have received various accolades over the years.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied by year and specific components; generally mid-pack for its segment during this era.