2005 DODGE DAKOTA Owners Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTIONPAGE
1INTRODUCTION.............................................................3
2THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE..............................7
3UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE..............................77
4INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONTROLS.........................................147
5STARTING AND OPERATING.................................................193
6WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES..............................................271
7MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE...............................................289
8MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES..................................................347
9IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE.........................................367
10INDEX....................................................................375
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INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS

Introduction........................... 4

How To Use This Manual.................. 4

Warnings And Cautions................... 5
Vehicle Identification Number............... 5

Vehicle Modifications / Alterations........... 6
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 Moparparts, 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.
INTRODUCTION 5
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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.
6 INTRODUCTION

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS

A Word About Your Keys..................10
▫Key-In-Ignition Reminder................10
▫Sentry Key — If Equipped................11

Ignition And Steering Lock.................13
▫Manual Transmissions...................13
▫Automatic Transmissions.................14

Illuminated Entry........................15
▫Vehicles Equipped With Power Door Locks....15

Door Locks............................16▫Manual Door Locks.....................16
▫Power Door Locks.....................17
▫Child Protection Door Lock...............20

Remote Keyless Entry.....................21
▫To Unlock The Doors...................22
▫To Lock The Doors.....................22
▫Using The Panic Alarm..................24
▫General Information....................24
▫Programming Additional Transmitters........25
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▫Battery Replacement....................26

Security Alarm System — If Equipped.........27
▫To Set The Alarm......................27
▫To Disarm The System...................28

Windows.............................29
▫Power Windows.......................29
▫Auto Down..........................30
▫Window Lockout Switch.................30
▫Sliding Rear Window...................31
▫Wind Buffeting........................31

Occupant Restraints......................31
▫Lap/Shoulder Belts.....................32
▫Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage....37▫Automatic Locking Mode (If Equipped)......38
▫Center Lap Belts.......................38
▫Seat Belt Pretensioners...................38
▫Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System
(BeltAlert)...........................39
▫Seat Belts And Pregnant Women............40
▫Seat Belt Extender......................40
▫Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS)—Airbags...........41
▫Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch – If
Equipped............................55
▫Event Data Recorder (EDR)...............57
▫Child Restraint........................59

Engine Break-In Recommendations...........72
8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE