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Dodge 2008 Dakota User Manual

Dodge 2008 Dakota
426 pages
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1
INTRODUCTION
.............................................................3
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
...............................9
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE
...............................73
4
INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONTROLS
......................................... 153
5
STARTING AND OPERATING
.................................................217
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
...............................................311
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
...............................................329
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
..................................................387
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE
..........................................397
10
INDEX
....................................................................407
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Table of Contents

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Dodge 2008 Dakota Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandDodge
Model2008 Dakota
CategoryAutomobile
LanguageEnglish

Summary

INTRODUCTION

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

Warnings against operating procedures that could result in accident or injury, and cautions against procedures causing vehicle damage.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

Location and importance of the VIN plate and its information.

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS

Warning about how modifications can affect roadworthiness and safety.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

Information about key code numbers and ordering duplicate keys from the dealer.

SENTRY KEY

Explanation of the Sentry Key Immobilizer System's function and operation.

STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED

Description of the passive steering wheel lock and how to engage/disengage it.

SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED

Details on how to set, disarm, and the system's monitoring capabilities.

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY

How to lock, unlock doors, and activate the panic alarm remotely.

DOOR LOCKS

Manual and power door lock operation, including child protection.

WINDOWS

Operation of power windows, including auto-down and lockout features.

OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS

Information on seat belts, airbags, and child restraint systems for occupant safety.

Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System (BeltAlert)

Functionality and customization of the driver's seat belt reminder system.

Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) – Airbags

Explanation of front and side airbag systems, their deployment, and safety precautions.

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

Guidelines for breaking in the new vehicle's engine for optimal performance and longevity.

SAFETY TIPS

Important safety advice, including exhaust system precautions and engine coolant checks.

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle

Checks for heater defroster ducts, seat belts, and airbag light operation.

Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The Vehicle

Checks for tires, lights, and fluid leaks.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

MIRRORS

Adjusting inside and outside mirrors, and features like folding exterior mirrors.

HANDS–FREE COMMUNICATION (UConnect) — IF EQUIPPED

Overview of the voice-activated UConnect system for phone calls and its requirements.

SEATS

Manual seat adjustment, recliners, and lumbar support.

Adjustable Head Restraints — Front Seating Positions

Proper adjustment of head restraints for rear impact protection.

Extended Cab/Crew Cab Rear Seat

Information on rear seat functionality for cargo space or passenger seating.

Heated Seats — If Equipped

Operation and safety precautions for heated seat features.

TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD

Procedure for opening and closing the vehicle's hood.

LIGHTS

Operation of interior and exterior lights, including battery saver and headlamp delay.

Multifunction Control Lever

Operation of turn signals, passing lights, and high/low beam selection.

WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS

Operation of windshield wipers and washers, including intermittent settings.

ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED

How to activate, set, and deactivate the cruise control system.

OVERHEAD CONSOLE

Features of the overhead console, including lights and optional openers/computers.

COMPASS/TEMPERATURE MINI-TRIP COMPUTER

How to use the US/M button and reset displays for trip information.

GARAGE DOOR OPENER — IF EQUIPPED

Information on programming and using the HomeLink system.

General Information

FCC compliance and operational conditions for electronic devices.

ELECTRICAL POWER OUTLETS

Location and usage of 12V auxiliary power outlets.

FLOOR CONSOLE — IF EQUIPPED

Features of the floor console, including storage and power outlets.

REAR STORAGE – IF EQUIPPED

Location and usage of rear convenience storage crates.

REAR WINDOW FEATURES

Operation of the rear window defroster and sliding window.

TAILGATE

Procedure for removing and reinstalling the tailgate.

REAR CARGO AREA UTILITY RAILS

Information on adjustable cleats for securing cargo in the utility rails.

SLIDE-IN CAMPERS

Information on camper applications and general warranty for aftermarket equipment.

INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONTROLS

INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS

Overview of the vehicle's dashboard layout and component identification.

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER

Visual representation and numbering of instrument cluster gauges and indicators.

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION

Detailed explanation of each gauge and warning light on the instrument cluster.

RADIO GENERAL INFORMATION

Understanding radio broadcast signals, AM/FM reception, and electrical disturbances.

SALES CODE RES — AM/FM STEREO RADIO WITH CD PLAYER (MP3 AUX JACK)

Operating instructions for the RES radio model in radio and CD modes.

SALES CODE REQ — AM/FM STEREO RADIO AND 6–DISC CD/DVD CHANGER (MP3/WMA AUX JACK)

Operating instructions for the REQ radio model, including CD/DVD and MP3 playback.

Operating Instructions - Satellite Radio Mode (If Equipped)

Instructions for using the satellite radio system, including activation and modes.

Operating Instructions - Video Entertainment System (VES) (If Equipped)

Guidance for operating the optional Video Entertainment System.

REMOTE SOUND SYSTEM CONTROLS — IF EQUIPPED

Location and operation of the steering wheel mounted sound system controls.

COMPACT DISC MAINTENANCE

Precautions for keeping compact discs in good condition for playback.

SOUND BOX OPERATION

Control of lighting effects in the sound box that pulsate with music.

CLIMATE CONTROLS

Operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems using rotary controls.

Operation Tips

Tips for fast cooldown, window fogging, and general climate control usage.

STARTING AND OPERATING

STARTING PROCEDURES

Steps for starting the engine, including precautions for the starter and warnings about resting in the vehicle.

Normal Starting

Procedure for starting a warm or cold engine and handling a flooded engine.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Precautions for operating the automatic transmission and checking fluid levels.

Gear Ranges

Explanation of different gear selector positions (P, R, N, D, 2, 1) and their usage.

Overdrive Operation

How the overdrive feature functions and conditions for its automatic engagement.

When To Use “TOW/HAUL” Mode

Guidance on using the TOW/HAUL mode for towing and heavy loads.

MANUAL TRANSMISSION

Instructions for operating the manual transmission, including clutch usage and shifting.

Recommended Shift Speeds

Guidelines for upshifting and downshifting for fuel economy and performance.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION

Information on operating the NV233/243 transfer case and its different modes.

LIMITED-SLIP REAR AXLE DIFFERENTIAL — IF EQUIPPED

Benefits and operation of the limited-slip differential for improved traction.

DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES

Precautions for driving on wet, slushy, or icy surfaces, including hydroplaning.

DRIVING THROUGH WATER

Guidelines and cautions for driving through standing water to prevent damage.

PARKING BRAKE

How to operate the parking brake and precautions for parking on inclines.

BRAKE SYSTEM

Explanation of brake system operation, including ABS and rear-wheel ABS.

POWER STEERING

Description of the standard power steering system and its capabilities.

TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION

Information on tire grading categories: Treadwear, Traction, and Temperature.

Tire Sizing Chart

Explanation of tire size designation and its components.

Service Description:

Explanation of Load Index and Speed Symbol designations for tires.

Tire Identification Number (TIN)

How to locate and interpret the Tire Identification Number on the tire sidewall.

Tire Loading and Tire Pressure

Importance of proper tire loading and inflation pressure, and placard location.

Loading

Steps to determine the correct load limit for the vehicle and cargo.

TRAILER TOWING

Safety tips and definitions for towing a trailer with the vehicle.

Trailer Hitch Classification

Industry standard classes for trailer hitches and their weight capacities.

Towing Requirements

Guidelines for proper break-in of drivetrain components and safe towing practices.

Towing Requirements — Tires

Precautions regarding tire usage and inflation for trailer towing.

Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes

Information on trailer brake systems and controller requirements.

Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights & Wiring

Safety requirements for trailer lights and wiring, and package information.

Towing Tips — Automatic Transmission

Tips for towing with an automatic transmission, including TOW/HAUL feature and fluid changes.

Towing Tips — Cooling System

Actions to reduce potential for engine and transmission overheating during towing.

SNOWPLOW

Warning against using the vehicle for snowplow applications due to potential damage and airbag system interference.

RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.)

Procedures for recreational towing of 2WD and 4WD models, including transfer case and transmission settings.

EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION PLATE

Location and information found on the vehicle's equipment identification plate.

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

HAZARD WARNING FLASHER

Operation of the hazard warning flasher system for emergency signaling.

ADDING FUEL

Guidelines for safely adding fuel using a portable container.

CHANGING A FLAT TIRE

Step-by-step procedure for changing a flat tire, including jack location and usage.

Removing The Spare Tire

Procedure for removing the spare tire and attaching the jack extension.

Tire Changing Procedure

Detailed preparation and instructions for safely changing a tire.

JUMP STARTING

Warnings and procedures for jump-starting a vehicle's battery.

FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE

Techniques for freeing a vehicle stuck in snow, sand, or mud using a rocking motion.

EMERGENCY TOW HOOKS — IF EQUIPPED

Location and usage of emergency tow hooks, with safety warnings.

TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE

Proper towing or lifting equipment and methods for disabled vehicles.

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

3.7L ENGINE COMPARTMENT

Identification of key components in the 3.7L engine compartment.

4.7L ENGINE COMPARTMENT

Identification of key components in the 4.7L engine compartment.

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II

Explanation of the OBD II system, malfunction indicator light, and service requirements.

Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message

How the vehicle detects and alerts for a loose or damaged fuel filler cap.

EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS

Requirements for emissions testing and OBD system readiness.

REPLACEMENT PARTS

Recommendation to use genuine Mopar parts for maintenance and repairs.

DEALER SERVICE

Benefits of using authorized dealers for expert service and specialized tools.

MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

Overview of required maintenance services and potential issues from neglecting them.

Engine Oil

Proper procedure for checking and maintaining engine oil level.

Change Engine Oil

Factors affecting oil change intervals and recommended schedules based on driving conditions.

Dusty Conditions

Precautions for driving in dusty conditions and maintaining the engine air cleaner.

Engine Oil Selection

Recommendations for API certified engine oils and correct SAE viscosity grades.

Drive Belts — Check Condition and Tension

Inspection of drive belts for condition and tension, and replacement criteria.

Spark Plugs

Importance of spark plugs for engine performance and replacement intervals.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter

Replacement intervals for the air cleaner filter based on driving conditions.

Engine Fuel Filter

Function of the fuel filter and when replacement may be necessary.

Catalytic Converter

Requirements for catalytic converter operation, including unleaded fuel usage.

Maintenance Free Battery

Information on the sealed nature and lack of maintenance for the battery.

Air Conditioner Maintenance

Recommended service for the air conditioning system at the start of warm seasons.

Power Steering — Fluid Check

When and how to check power steering fluid level, and necessary precautions.

Front Suspension Ball Joints

Inspection of ball joints and seals for damage or leakage.

Drive Shaft Constant Velocity Joints

Inspection of drive shaft boots for external leakage or damage.

Body Lubrication

Periodic lubrication of body pivot points for smooth operation and rust prevention.

Windshield Wiper Blades

Cleaning and maintenance of wiper blades to prevent deterioration.

Windshield Washers

Checking fluid level and preparing the washer system for cold weather.

Exhaust System

Importance of a properly maintained exhaust system for preventing carbon monoxide entry.

Cooling System

Warnings about hot coolant and procedures for checking coolant levels and pressure caps.

Cooling System — Drain, Flush and Refill

Intervals and procedures for draining, flushing, and refilling the cooling system.

Adding Coolant

Recommendations for using and mixing HOAT engine coolant for extended service intervals.

Cooling System Pressure Cap

Importance of the pressure cap for maintaining coolant levels and preventing loss.

Disposal of Used Engine Coolant

Proper procedures for disposing of used engine coolant and preventing environmental harm.

Front Axle

Checking the fluid level for the front axle.

Appearance Care and Protection from Corrosion

Factors affecting vehicle body corrosion and recommendations for prevention.

Protection of Body and Paint from Corrosion

How geographic location and usage affect vehicle body requirements for corrosion protection.

Washing

Guidelines for regularly washing the vehicle to maintain paint and finish.

Special Care

Advice for driving on salted/dusty roads, chip repair, and handling special cargo.

Wheel and Wheel Trim Care

Cleaning procedures for wheels and wheel trim, especially aluminum and chrome.

YES Essentials Fabric Cleaning Procedure – If Equipped

Step-by-step instructions for cleaning YES Essentials fabric seats.

Interior Care

Cleaning recommendations for fabric, vinyl, and leather upholstery using Mopar products.

Glass Surfaces

Guidelines for cleaning glass surfaces without scratching elements.

Instrument Panel Bezels

Caution regarding installation of hanging air fresheners and potential damage.

Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses

How to clean the plastic lenses of the instrument cluster without scratching.

Seat Belt Maintenance

Proper cleaning and replacement guidelines for seat belts and buckles.

FUSES (POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER)

Location of the power distribution center and information on fuses and relays.

VEHICLE STORAGE

Steps to minimize battery drain when storing the vehicle for extended periods.

REPLACEMENT LIGHT BULBS

List of interior and exterior light bulb numbers for replacement.

BULB REPLACEMENT

Procedures for replacing headlight bulbs and front park/turn signal bulbs.

Rear Side Marker, Taillamps/Stoplamp, and Turn Signal Bulbs — Replacement

Step-by-step guide for replacing rear lighting components.

Center High-Mounted Stoplamp And Cargo Lamp

Procedure for removing and replacing the CHMSL and cargo lamp assembly.

License Lamps

How to remove and rotate the socket for license lamps.

Fog Lamps

Procedure for disconnecting the connector, rotating the bulb, and installing fog lamps.

FLUIDS AND CAPACITIES

Table of vehicle fluid capacities for fuel, engine oil, and cooling system.

FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS AND GENUINE PARTS

Component-specific recommendations for engine fluids, lubricants, and parts.

Chassis

Fluid recommendations for automatic transmission, transfer case, axles, and brake systems.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

Emission Control System Maintenance

Importance of scheduled maintenance for the emission control system's proper function.

Maintenance Schedule

Information on the oil change indicator system and its reset procedure.

Required Maintenance Intervals

Table detailing required maintenance items and their service intervals by miles, kilometers, or months.

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE

Suggestions For Obtaining Service For Your Vehicle

Tips for preparing for service appointments, including warranty work and maintenance logs.

IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE

Manufacturer's commitment to customer satisfaction and recommended service channels.

WARRANTY INFORMATION (U.S. Vehicles Only)

Reference to the Warranty Information Booklet for terms and provisions of vehicle warranties.

MOPAR PARTS

Information on Mopar fluids, lubricants, parts, and accessories for optimal vehicle operation.

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

How to report vehicle safety defects to NHTSA (US) and Transport Canada (Canada).

PUBLICATION ORDER FORMS

Information on ordering service manuals, diagnostic manuals, and owner's manuals.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADES

Explanation of DOT tire grading categories: Treadwear, Traction, and Temperature.

Treadwear

How the treadwear grade is rated and its relation to tire wear rate.

Traction Grades

Explanation of tire traction grades and their measurement for wet pavement stopping.

Temperature Grades

Explanation of tire temperature grades and their relation to heat resistance and potential failure.

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