Shopping on line can be easy, simple and save you lots of money. It can also take a lot of your time, frustrate you, and result in unwanted purchases. Now the same can be said for regular high street shopping, but with the vast opportunity presented by the Internet it will pay you to spend a few minutes reading this and understanding how to better optimize your Dodge Dakota shopping experience:

1. Compare - without doubt the biggest advantage that the Dodge Dakota offers shoppers today is the ability to compare thousands of Dodge Dakota at a time. This is a great thing, but not necessarily all the time! Too much can be daunting at times so take advantage of the great comparison sites and where possible let them do the hard work for you.

2. Research - if it has been said it will be on the internet. Ignorance is no longer a justifiable reason for buying the wrong thing. Take the time to research in detail everything that you could possible want to know about

3. Testimonials - don't know anybody that has bought a Dodge Dakota? Wrong! If the Dodge Dakota is good the internet will let you know. Use the Internet as a friend and get testimonials before you buy.

4. Questions - Got a question about Dodge Dakota then search the Forums, FAQ's, Blogs etc. Don't be afraid to ask .....

5. Reputation - Never heard of the company selling Dodge Dakota? Don't worry, no reason why you should know every company in the world, but you know someone that does! Use the internet to find out what people are saying about Dodge Dakota and build up a picture of their reputation for sales, returns, customer service, delivery etc.

6. Returns - still worried that even after all of the above your Dodge Dakota wont be what you want? Check out the returns policy. There is so much competition now that someone, somewhere is bound to offer the terms that you are comfortable with.

7. Feedback - happy with your Dodge Dakota then let people know, after all you are depending on others people input in your buying decision, so why not give a little back.

8. Security - check for the yellow padlock on the Dodge Dakota site before you buy, and the s after http:/ /i.e. https:// = a secure site

9. Contact - got a question about Dodge Dakota, or want to leave a comment then check out the sites contact page. Reputable companies have them and respond.

10. Payment - ready to pay for your Dodge Dakota, then use your credit card or PayPal! Be aware of companies that don't accept them, there may be genuine reasons but given the huge amount of choice you have when buying online there is no reason at all not to buy via credit card or PayPal.

{{Infobox Automobile| name = Dodge Dakota| image = | manufacturer = Dodge (1987-1998, 2008-present)
[DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007)]| class = Mid-size pickup truck| layout = [Front-engine design, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| related = Shelby Dakota
2-door [convertible
5-speed [manual transmission| engine = 2.2 L Chrysler K engine#2.2 Straight-4
3.9 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 3.9 V6
2.5 L Chrysler K engine#2.5 Straight-4
5.2 L Chrysler LA engine#360 V8
3.9 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 3.9 V6
5.2 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 5.2 V8
2.5 L AMC Straight-6 engine#2.5 Straight-4-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = Second generation| image = | production = 1997-2004| platform = Chrysler N platform| related = Dodge Durango
4-door [pickup truck
5-speed [manual transmission| length = 1997-2001 Regular Cab:
1997-2001 Regular Cab & 2002-04 Quad Cab:
1997-2001 Club Cab:
2002-04: /| width =
Quad Cab Sport & 2002-04 2WD: | height = 1997-99 4WD:
1997-99 & 2002-04 Club Cab 4WD:
1997-2001 2WD: /
2000-01 4WD:
2000-01 Club Cab 4WD:
2000-01 Quad Cab Sport 4WD:
2000-01 Quad Cab Sport 2WD:
2002-04 4WD:
2002-04 Club Cab 4WD:
2002-04 Quad Cab 4WD:
2002-04 2WD:
2002-04 Club Cab 2WD:
2002-04 Quad Cab 4WD: | engine = 2.5 L AMC Straight-4 engine Straight-4
3.9 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 3.9 V6
5.2 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 5.2 V8
5.9 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 5.9 V8
4.7 L Chrysler Magnum engine#4.7 V8
3.7 L Chrysler Magnum engine#3.7 V6-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| body_style = 2-door pickup truck
4-door pickup truck [V6
4.7 L Chrysler Magnum engine#4.7 V8
4.7 L H.O. Chrysler Magnum engine V8 [automatic transmission 5-speed 545RFE automatic transmission| length = | width = | height = Club Cab:
Quad Cab: -->The 'Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck from the Chrysler Corporation's Dodge brand. It was introduced in 1987 alongside the redesigned Dodge Ram 50. The Dakota was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award for 2000.

The Dakota has always been sized above the compact (Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10) and below the full-sized (Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado) pickups and Dodge's own Dodge Ram. It is a conventional design with body-on-frame construction and leaf spring/live axle rear end. The Dakota has also long been the only midsize pickup with an optional V8 engine. One notable feature was the Dakota's rack and pinion steering, a first in work trucks.

1987-1996 See also Shelby Dakota

The Dodge Dakota was conceived by Chrysler management as the first "mid-sized pickup" combining the nimble handling and fuel economy of a compact pickup with cargo handling capacity approaching that of full-sized pickups. To keep investment low, many components were shared with existing Chrysler products and the manufacturing plant was shared with the full-sized Dodge D-Model. The name Dakota means "friend or ally" in the Sioux Indian language, and the Dakota has found many friends in the millions of buyers that have purchased these versatile vehicles.

The first generation of the Dakota was produced from 1987 through 1996. Straight-4 and V6 engines were offered along with either a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission. Four wheel drive was available only with the V6. Both 6.5 ft (2 m) and 8 ft (2.4 m) beds were offered. Fuel injection was added to the 3.9 L V6 for 1988 but the output remained the same.

In 1988, the Sport package was added as a mid-year release. Available in both 2wd and 4x4, the Sport included:The Sport was available only in Black, Bright White and Graphic Red.

The N-body platform was the result of the identification by Harold K. Sperlich, in charge of Chrysler's Product Planning in the early 1980's, that the Japanese-inspired compact pickups of the time lacked the size and features necessary to meet the demands of American buyers. In the late-1980's, Chrysler was still recovering from their earlier near-bankruptcy and resources were in short supply. Sperlich challenged the N-Body team to search for all opportunities to reuse existing components to create the Dakota. The resulting highly investment-efficient program enabled Chrysler to create an all-new market segment at low cost. Key individuals involved in making this product a reality included Glenn Gardner, Glen House, Robert Burnham, Don Sebert, Jim Hackstedde, and Clark Ewing. The basic Dakota vehicle was ultimately used as a foundation to create the Dakota extended cab version and the Dodge Durango SUV.

1989 saw the unusual Dakota convertible. The first American convertible pickup since the Ford Model T, it featured a fixed roll bar and an uncomplicated manual top. Roughly 2,482 were sold that first year. Another important addition that year was Carroll Shelby's V8-powered Shelby Dakota, his first rear-wheel drive vehicle in two decades.

An extended "Club Cab" model was added for 1990, still with two doors. This model allowed the Dakota to boast capacity for six passengers, although the rear seat was best suited for children and shorter adults.

For 1991, the front of the Dakota received a more aerodynamic grille and hood, and Dodge added the 5.2 L V8 as an option, inspired by the earlier Shelby Dakota option.



This internal combustion engine produced . Both of the V-configuration engines were updated to Magnum specs the next year, providing a tremendous power boost. Along with the introduction of the Magnum engine came multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI). The EFI computer ( called a PCM by Chrysler techs ) was partially responsible for the improved performance. The new engine/computer combination produced about 235 hp (175 kW). 1991 was also the last year for the Dakota convertible.

The last Dakota Convertibles In order to fulfill the Dodge Division's commitment to the American Sunroof Company (who were responsible for the modifications to these trucks), production of the "drop top" Dakota was extended into the 1991 model year. These models were equipped with the new "Magnum" V6 engine, along with the updated front fascia that all other 1991's received. Production was extremely limited, with just 8 produced in total, making them the most rare of all Dakotas. Unlike the previous years, colors and options varied more than before as the manufacturer picked each of these trucks in a somewhat random fashion. No advertising was given to these trucks, and they do not appear in sales literature. This is most likely due to the fact that the majority of them were "pre-sold" before hitting dealer lots.

1994 saw a few minor changes, with the most notable being the addition of a driver's side airbag, located in a new, two spoke design steering wheel (also found in the Ram). Other changes included the discontinuation of the "SE" and "LE" trims. In following with the all new Ram full sized pickups, top end trim was changed to "SLT", with these models (along with select others) wearing the new chrome finshed, styled steel wheels also found on the larger Ram. Other changes included revisions to color and overall trim options.

In 1996, the first generation's final year, the Chrysler K engine 2.5 L I4 engine was out of production and had been considered vastly underpowered compared to the competition, so Dodge borrowed American Motors' Jeep 2.5 L AMC Straight-4 engine (rated at 120 hp) and installed it as the base engine in the Dakota. It was the only major change for 1996, and would be also carried over as the base engine in the new, larger 1997 model.

Engines

1997-2004 The second-generation Dakota was built from 1997 through 2004. It inherited the semi truck look of the larger Ram but remained largely the same underneath. 1998 saw the introduction of the R/T model with the big 5.9 L 250 hp (186 Watt#Kilowatt) Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 5.9 V8. At the time of its introduction, it was seen as one of the most radical in its class, not only for its styling, but for the fact it remained the only truck in its class with an available V8 engine that rivalled many V8s found in full size trucks.

Four-door "Quad-Cab" models were added for 2000 with a slightly shorter bed, 63.1 in (160.2 cm), but riding on the Club Cab's 130.9 in (332.5 cm) wheelbase. The 5.2 L Magnum V8 was replaced by a new high-tech 4.7L SOHC "Power tech" Magnum V8 as well.



2001 saw a fairly extensive revision of the Dakota's interior, including a completely redesigned dash, door panels and revised seats. Other minor trim revisions were made, including redesigned aluminium wheels on various models.

2002 was the final year for the Straight-4 in the Dakota, as Chrysler was ending production of the former American Motors Corporation design. Most buyers ordered the V6 or V8 engines, which were considerably more powerful and, in the case of the V6, which was made standard for 2003, nearly as fuel-efficient with a manual transmission.

2004 was the end of the old pushrod engine V6 and the big R/T V8.

This Generation was also assembled and sold in Brazil from 1998 to 2002.

Engines

2005-2007 The redesigned 2005 Dakota no longer shares its automobile platform with the new Dodge Durango SUV (which is now similar to the Ram platform). This model is 3.7 in longer and 2.7 Inch wider, and features a new front and rear suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering. There are one V6 and two V8 engines available: The standard engine is a 3.7 L Chrysler Magnum engine#3.7 V6 (specs #below); the two 4.7 L V8 engines are the standard Magnum V8 and the V8 High Output or HO. The Dakota is built at Warren Truck Assembly in Warren, Michigan.Different from the previous generation, the more powerful choices of engines and rear end ratios are available only with the automatic transmission.

In addition to a refresh of the Dakota's styling, the latest generation is not offered in a regular cab model. Only the club cab and quad cab configurations are available. 2006 saw the Dakota R/T return, however only with cosmetic modifications. Despite the "R/T" moniker which signifies "Road and Track", the newest Dakota R/T is a 4-wheel drive.

The facelifted fourth generation Dakota was unveiled at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. The Dakota gets another facelift and interior upgrade along with a few other upgrades including built-in cargo-box utility rails, heated bench seats, best-in-class towing (up to 7,050 pounds), the largest and longest standard bed in the class, and the largest mid-size truck cab. It’s new 4.7 liter V8 produces and . of Torque. The standard engine remains the 3.7 liter V6 with 210 horsepower and . of torque. Production begins in August 2007.

External links

{{Infobox Automobile| name = Dodge Dakota| image = | manufacturer = Dodge (1987-1998, 2008-present)
[DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007)]| class = Mid-size pickup truck| layout = [Front-engine design, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| related = Shelby Dakota
2-door [convertible
5-speed [manual transmission| engine = 2.2 L Chrysler K engine#2.2 Straight-4
3.9 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 3.9 V6
2.5 L Chrysler K engine#2.5 Straight-4
5.2 L Chrysler LA engine#360 V8
3.9 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 3.9 V6
5.2 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 5.2 V8
2.5 L AMC Straight-6 engine#2.5 Straight-4-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = Second generation| image = | production = 1997-2004| platform = Chrysler N platform| related = Dodge Durango
4-door [pickup truck
5-speed [manual transmission| length = 1997-2001 Regular Cab:
1997-2001 Regular Cab & 2002-04 Quad Cab:
1997-2001 Club Cab:
2002-04: /| width =
Quad Cab Sport & 2002-04 2WD: | height = 1997-99 4WD:
1997-99 & 2002-04 Club Cab 4WD:
1997-2001 2WD: /
2000-01 4WD:
2000-01 Club Cab 4WD:
2000-01 Quad Cab Sport 4WD:
2000-01 Quad Cab Sport 2WD:
2002-04 4WD:
2002-04 Club Cab 4WD:
2002-04 Quad Cab 4WD:
2002-04 2WD:
2002-04 Club Cab 2WD:
2002-04 Quad Cab 4WD: | engine = 2.5 L AMC Straight-4 engine Straight-4
3.9 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 3.9 V6
5.2 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 5.2 V8
5.9 L Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 5.9 V8
4.7 L Chrysler Magnum engine#4.7 V8
3.7 L Chrysler Magnum engine#3.7 V6-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| body_style = 2-door pickup truck
4-door pickup truck [V6
4.7 L Chrysler Magnum engine#4.7 V8
4.7 L H.O. Chrysler Magnum engine V8 [automatic transmission 5-speed 545RFE automatic transmission| length = | width = | height = Club Cab:
Quad Cab: -->The 'Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck from the Chrysler Corporation's Dodge brand. It was introduced in 1987 alongside the redesigned Dodge Ram 50. The Dakota was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award for 2000.

The Dakota has always been sized above the compact (Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10) and below the full-sized (Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado) pickups and Dodge's own Dodge Ram. It is a conventional design with body-on-frame construction and leaf spring/live axle rear end. The Dakota has also long been the only midsize pickup with an optional V8 engine. One notable feature was the Dakota's rack and pinion steering, a first in work trucks.

1987-1996 See also Shelby Dakota

The Dodge Dakota was conceived by Chrysler management as the first "mid-sized pickup" combining the nimble handling and fuel economy of a compact pickup with cargo handling capacity approaching that of full-sized pickups. To keep investment low, many components were shared with existing Chrysler products and the manufacturing plant was shared with the full-sized Dodge D-Model. The name Dakota means "friend or ally" in the Sioux Indian language, and the Dakota has found many friends in the millions of buyers that have purchased these versatile vehicles.

The first generation of the Dakota was produced from 1987 through 1996. Straight-4 and V6 engines were offered along with either a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission. Four wheel drive was available only with the V6. Both 6.5 ft (2 m) and 8 ft (2.4 m) beds were offered. Fuel injection was added to the 3.9 L V6 for 1988 but the output remained the same.

In 1988, the Sport package was added as a mid-year release. Available in both 2wd and 4x4, the Sport included:The Sport was available only in Black, Bright White and Graphic Red.

The N-body platform was the result of the identification by Harold K. Sperlich, in charge of Chrysler's Product Planning in the early 1980's, that the Japanese-inspired compact pickups of the time lacked the size and features necessary to meet the demands of American buyers. In the late-1980's, Chrysler was still recovering from their earlier near-bankruptcy and resources were in short supply. Sperlich challenged the N-Body team to search for all opportunities to reuse existing components to create the Dakota. The resulting highly investment-efficient program enabled Chrysler to create an all-new market segment at low cost. Key individuals involved in making this product a reality included Glenn Gardner, Glen House, Robert Burnham, Don Sebert, Jim Hackstedde, and Clark Ewing. The basic Dakota vehicle was ultimately used as a foundation to create the Dakota extended cab version and the Dodge Durango SUV.

1989 saw the unusual Dakota convertible. The first American convertible pickup since the Ford Model T, it featured a fixed roll bar and an uncomplicated manual top. Roughly 2,482 were sold that first year. Another important addition that year was Carroll Shelby's V8-powered Shelby Dakota, his first rear-wheel drive vehicle in two decades.

An extended "Club Cab" model was added for 1990, still with two doors. This model allowed the Dakota to boast capacity for six passengers, although the rear seat was best suited for children and shorter adults.

For 1991, the front of the Dakota received a more aerodynamic grille and hood, and Dodge added the 5.2 L V8 as an option, inspired by the earlier Shelby Dakota option.



This internal combustion engine produced . Both of the V-configuration engines were updated to Magnum specs the next year, providing a tremendous power boost. Along with the introduction of the Magnum engine came multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI). The EFI computer ( called a PCM by Chrysler techs ) was partially responsible for the improved performance. The new engine/computer combination produced about 235 hp (175 kW). 1991 was also the last year for the Dakota convertible.

The last Dakota Convertibles In order to fulfill the Dodge Division's commitment to the American Sunroof Company (who were responsible for the modifications to these trucks), production of the "drop top" Dakota was extended into the 1991 model year. These models were equipped with the new "Magnum" V6 engine, along with the updated front fascia that all other 1991's received. Production was extremely limited, with just 8 produced in total, making them the most rare of all Dakotas. Unlike the previous years, colors and options varied more than before as the manufacturer picked each of these trucks in a somewhat random fashion. No advertising was given to these trucks, and they do not appear in sales literature. This is most likely due to the fact that the majority of them were "pre-sold" before hitting dealer lots.

1994 saw a few minor changes, with the most notable being the addition of a driver's side airbag, located in a new, two spoke design steering wheel (also found in the Ram). Other changes included the discontinuation of the "SE" and "LE" trims. In following with the all new Ram full sized pickups, top end trim was changed to "SLT", with these models (along with select others) wearing the new chrome finshed, styled steel wheels also found on the larger Ram. Other changes included revisions to color and overall trim options.

In 1996, the first generation's final year, the Chrysler K engine 2.5 L I4 engine was out of production and had been considered vastly underpowered compared to the competition, so Dodge borrowed American Motors' Jeep 2.5 L AMC Straight-4 engine (rated at 120 hp) and installed it as the base engine in the Dakota. It was the only major change for 1996, and would be also carried over as the base engine in the new, larger 1997 model.

Engines

1997-2004 The second-generation Dakota was built from 1997 through 2004. It inherited the semi truck look of the larger Ram but remained largely the same underneath. 1998 saw the introduction of the R/T model with the big 5.9 L 250 hp (186 Watt#Kilowatt) Chrysler LA engine#Magnum 5.9 V8. At the time of its introduction, it was seen as one of the most radical in its class, not only for its styling, but for the fact it remained the only truck in its class with an available V8 engine that rivalled many V8s found in full size trucks.

Four-door "Quad-Cab" models were added for 2000 with a slightly shorter bed, 63.1 in (160.2 cm), but riding on the Club Cab's 130.9 in (332.5 cm) wheelbase. The 5.2 L Magnum V8 was replaced by a new high-tech 4.7L SOHC "Power tech" Magnum V8 as well.



2001 saw a fairly extensive revision of the Dakota's interior, including a completely redesigned dash, door panels and revised seats. Other minor trim revisions were made, including redesigned aluminium wheels on various models.

2002 was the final year for the Straight-4 in the Dakota, as Chrysler was ending production of the former American Motors Corporation design. Most buyers ordered the V6 or V8 engines, which were considerably more powerful and, in the case of the V6, which was made standard for 2003, nearly as fuel-efficient with a manual transmission.

2004 was the end of the old pushrod engine V6 and the big R/T V8.

This Generation was also assembled and sold in Brazil from 1998 to 2002.

Engines

2005-2007 The redesigned 2005 Dakota no longer shares its automobile platform with the new Dodge Durango SUV (which is now similar to the Ram platform). This model is 3.7 in longer and 2.7 Inch wider, and features a new front and rear suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering. There are one V6 and two V8 engines available: The standard engine is a 3.7 L Chrysler Magnum engine#3.7 V6 (specs #below); the two 4.7 L V8 engines are the standard Magnum V8 and the V8 High Output or HO. The Dakota is built at Warren Truck Assembly in Warren, Michigan.Different from the previous generation, the more powerful choices of engines and rear end ratios are available only with the automatic transmission.

In addition to a refresh of the Dakota's styling, the latest generation is not offered in a regular cab model. Only the club cab and quad cab configurations are available. 2006 saw the Dakota R/T return, however only with cosmetic modifications. Despite the "R/T" moniker which signifies "Road and Track", the newest Dakota R/T is a 4-wheel drive.

The facelifted fourth generation Dakota was unveiled at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. The Dakota gets another facelift and interior upgrade along with a few other upgrades including built-in cargo-box utility rails, heated bench seats, best-in-class towing (up to 7,050 pounds), the largest and longest standard bed in the class, and the largest mid-size truck cab. It’s new 4.7 liter V8 produces and . of Torque. The standard engine remains the 3.7 liter V6 with 210 horsepower and . of torque. Production begins in August 2007.

External links



Dodge - 2008 Dakota - Truck, Pickup
The 2008 Dodge Dakota provides the optimal combination of bold styling, sporty capability, and lifestyle-enabling versatility for a mid-size truck. Research and learn more.

Dodge Dakota - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Dakota is a mid-size pickup truck from the Chrysler LLC 's Dodge brand. It was introduced in 1987 alongside the redesigned Dodge Ram 50. The Dakota was nominated for the North ...

Dodge - 2008 Dakota - Exterior - Storage
Official site of Dodge - 2008 Dakota truck. Learn more about Dakota's two cargo bed options and dual position tailgate.

Dodge Dakota - Key Features - Cars Trucks Minivans SUVs in Canada ...
Dodge Dakota. One pickup line that always works. 4.7L Flex Fuel V8 engine the only V8 in its class*. Best-In-Class maximum towing capability*. Best-In-Class overall interior ...

2009 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab 4X2 | New Dodge Trucks — Yahoo! Autos
2009 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab 4X2 — Yahoo! Autos. Read reviews, view specifications & pictures, get dealer price quotes & compare the new Dodge truck with other cars.

Dodge Dakota - SLT - Cars Trucks Minivans SUVs in Canada at dodge.ca
Dodge Dakota. One pickup line that always works. 4.7L Flex Fuel V8 engine the only V8 in its class*. Best-In-Class maximum towing capability*. Best-In-Class overall interior ...

2009 Dodge Dakota Crew Cab 4X2 | New Dodge Trucks — Yahoo! Autos
2009 Dodge Dakota Crew Cab 4X2 — Yahoo! Autos. Read reviews, view specifications & pictures, get dealer price quotes & compare the new '09 Dodge truck with other cars.

Dodge Dakota R/T Zone - Home
Dodge Dakota R/T Zone - Home of the Dodge Dakota R/T., 2000 Dodge Dakota R/T By Chris Ellebracht. Amber Fire Regular Cab., 1999 Dodge Dakota R/T By Thorsten Hänchen., 2001 Dodge ...

Dodge Dakota History
The History of Dodge Dakota Cars through its generational changes ... Full-size pickups are great if your day is filled with full-size tasks and you don't mind their unwieldy ...

PickupTruck.com
Dodge Dakota Ratings. All Pickup Truck Ratings. Interior: Interior: Maintainance: Maintainance: Power: Power: Style: Style: Value: Value: Quality: Quality: Overall: Overall:

 

Dodge Dakota



 
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