2004 DODGE DAKOTA Owners Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTIONPAGE
1
INTRODUCTION.............................................................3
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE...........................7
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE............................55
4
INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONTROLS.........................................93
5
STARTING AND OPERATING................................................141
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES.............................................207
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE..............................................219
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES................................................261
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE.......................................279
10
INDEX...................................................................287
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
mIntroduction........................... 4
mHow To Use This Manual................. 4
mWarnings And Cautions.................. 5
mVehicle Identification Number.............. 5
mVehicle Modifications / Alterations.......... 5
1

INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared with the assistance of
service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with
the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is
supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and
various customer oriented documents. You are urged to
read these publications carefully. Following the instruc-
tions and recommendations in this manual will help
assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle.
NOTE:After you read the manual, it should be stored
in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with
the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be
aware of all safety warnings.
When it comes to service, remember that your dealer
knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained techni-
cians and genuine Mopartparts, and is interested in
your satisfaction.
WARNING!
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition,
certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain prod-
ucts of component wear contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
Consult the table of contents to determine which section
contains the information you desire.
The detailed index, at the rear of this manual, contains a
complete listing of all subjects.
4 INTRODUCTION

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
This manual containsWARNINGSagainst operating
procedures which could result in an accident or bodily
injury. It also containsCAUTIONSagainst procedures
which could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do
not read this entire manual you may miss important
information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is found on a
stamped plate located on the left front corner of the
instrument panel pad, visible from outside of the vehicle
through the windshield. This number also appears on the
Automobile Information Disclosure Label affixed to a
window on your vehicle. Save this label for a convenient
record of your vehicle identification number and optional
equipment.
NOTE:It is illegal to remove the VIN plate.
VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS
WARNING!
Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle
could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety
and may lead to an accident resulting in serious
injury or death.
INTRODUCTION 5
1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
mA Word About Your Keys................. 9
NKey-In-Ignition Reminder................ 9
NSentry Key Ð If Equipped................ 9
mIgnition And Steering Lock Ð If Equipped....11
NManual Transmissions...................11
NAutomatic Transmissions.................12
mIlluminated Entry.......................12
NVehicles Equipped With Power Door Locks....12
mDoor Locks...........................13
NManual Locks.........................13
NPower Door Locks Ð If Equipped..........14NChild Protection Door Lock...............16
mRemote Keyless Entry Ð If Equipped........17
NTo Unlock The Doors (Four Door Vehicles)....17
NTo Lock The Doors.....................18
NUsing The Panic Alarm..................19
NProgramming Additional Transmitters........19
NGeneral Information....................20
NTransmitter Battery Service...............21
mSecurity Alarm System Ð If Equipped.......21
NTo Set The Alarm......................21
NTo Disarm The System...................22
2

mWindows.............................22
NPower Windows Ð If Equipped............22
NSliding Rear WindowÐIf Equipped.........23
NClub Cab Vented Quarter Window..........24
NWind Buffeting........................24
mOccupant Restraints.....................24
NLap/Shoulder Belts.....................25
NAdjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage....29
NSeat Belt PretensionersÐQuad Cab Only......29
NFront Lap Belts........................30
NSeat Belts And Pregnant Women............30NSeat Belt Extender......................31
NDriver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint SystemÐAirbag................31
NChild Restraint........................38
mEngine Break-In Recommendations..........52
mSafety Tips............................53
NExhaust System.......................53
NSafety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle..............................54
NSafety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle..............................54
8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE