maintenance schedule DODGE DAKOTA 2006 3.G User Guide

dipstick cap is properly reseated. It is normal for the
dipstick cap to spring back slightly from its fully seated
position, as long as its seal remains engaged in the
dipstick tube.
Automatic Transmission Fluid And Filter Change
To obtain best performance and long life for automatic
transmissions, the manufacturer recommends that they
be given regular maintenance service by an Authorized
Dodge Dealer or Service Center. It is important that the
transmission fluid be maintained at the correct level and
that it be drained and refilled as specified.
Follow the proper Maintenance Schedule for your type of
driving.
It is important that proper lubricant is used in the
transmission. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type. It is important that the
transmission fluid be maintained at the prescribed level
using the recommended fluid.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turers recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturers recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against the ad-
dition of any additives to the transmission. Exception to
this policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting
fluid leaks. The use of transmission sealers should be
avoided, since they may adversely affect seals.
330 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
CONTENTS

Emission Control System Maintenance ........360

Emissions Testing .......................360

Maintenance Schedules ...................361 ▫
Schedule “B” ........................364
▫ Schedule “A” ........................375
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EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
The “Scheduled” maintenance services, listed inbold
type on the following pages must be done at the times or
mileages specified to assure the continued proper func-
tioning of the emission control system. These, and all
other maintenance services included in this manual,
should be done to provide best vehicle performance and
reliability. More frequent maintenance may be needed for
vehicles in severe operating conditions such as dusty
areas and very short trip driving.
Inspection and service also should be done any time a
malfunction is suspected.
NOTE: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emis-
sion control devices and systems on your vehicle may be
performed by any automotive repair establishment or
individual using any automotive part which has been
certified pursuant to U.S. EPA or, in the State of Califor-
nia, California Air Resources Board regulations.
EMISSIONS TESTING
In some localities, it may be or will become a legal
requirement to ensure that all emissions components and
systems are functioning properly as a part of the test
procedure. The test center accomplishes this by checking
the On Board Diagnostic System (OBD) system with an
electronic scan tool. If your vehicle has recently been
serviced, the OBD system may have been reset to a not
ready condition because the OBD system has not had
sufficient time since the servicing to reconfirm that
emissions components are operating properly. In most
cases, a reasonable mix and amount of normal city and
highway driving and at least one overnight-off period
will be required to prepare your vehicle for this check;
however your dealer has the equipment and procedures
required to make certain that the OBD system of your
vehicle is ready for the required testing.
360 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
There are two maintenance schedules that show the
required service for your vehicle.
First is Schedule “B”. It is for vehicles that are operated
under the conditions that are listed below and at the
beginning of the schedule.
•Day or night temperatures are below 32° F (0° C).
•Stop and go driving.
•Extensive engine idling.
•Driving in dusty conditions.
•Short trips of less than 10 miles (16 km).
•More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high
speeds during hot weather, above 90° F (32° C).
•Trailer towing.
•Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service).
•Off-road or desert operation.
•Heavy Loading
•If equipped for and operating with E-85 (ethanol)
fuel.
NOTE: IfANY of these apply to you then change your
engine oil every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months,
whichever comes first and follow schedule “B” of the
 Maintenance Schedules section of this manual.
NOTE: IfANY of these apply to you then change your
coolant every 102,000 miles (170 000 km) or 60 months,
whichever comes first and follow schedule “B” of the
 Maintenance Schedules section of this manual.
Second is Schedule “A”. It is for vehicles that are not
operated under any of the conditions listed under Sched-
ule B.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 361
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Use the schedule that best describes your driving condi-
tions. Where time and mileage are listed, follow the
interval that occurs first.
NOTE: Under no circumstances should oil change in-
tervals exceed 6000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 months
whichever comes first.
CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance items
may result in damage to the vehicle.
At Each Stop for Fuel
•Check the engine oil level about 5 minutes after a fully
warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level while
the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accu-
racy of the oil level reading. Add oil only when the
level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and add, if
required.
362 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Once a Month
•Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
•Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the terminals
as required.
•Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, and transmission and add as needed.
•Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation. At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Inspect the exhaust system.
•Inspect the brake hoses.
•Inspect the CV joints (if equipped) and front suspen-
sion components.
•Check the automatic transmission fluid level (if
equipped).
•Check the manual transmission fluid level (if
equipped).
•Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 363
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Schedule “B”
Follow schedule “B” if you usually operate your vehicle
under one or more of the following conditions.
•Day or night temperatures are below 32° F (0° C).
•Stop and go driving.
•Extensive engine idling.
•Driving in dusty conditions.
•Short trips of less than 10 miles (16 km).
•More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high
speeds during hot weather, above 90° F (32° C).
•Trailer towing.
•Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service).
•Off-road or desert operation.
•Heavy Loading
•If equipped for and operating with E-85 (ethanol)
fuel.
NOTE: IfANY of these apply to you then change your
engine oil every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months,
whichever comes first and follow schedule “B” of the
 Maintenance Schedules section of this manual.
NOTE: IfANY of these apply to you then change your
coolant every 102,000 miles (170 000 km) or 60 months,
whichever comes first and follow schedule “B” of the
 Maintenance Schedules section of this manual.
364 SCHEDULE “B”
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Miles 105,000 108,000 111,000 114,000 117,000 120,000
(Kilometers) (175 000) (180 000) (185 000) (190 000) (195 000) (200 000)
Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid,
change filter (3.7L). * X
Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid
and change main sump filter and spin-on
cooler return filter if equipped. (4.7L). * X
Flush and replace engine coolant, if not re-
placed at 102,000 miles (170 000 km). X
*This applies only if your vehicle is used for police, taxi,
fleet, or frequent trailer towing.
** This maintenance is recommended by the manufac-
turer to the owner, but not required to maintain the
emissions warranty. Inspection and service should also be performed anytime
a malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all re-
ceipts.
374 SCHEDULE “B”
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Miles 102,000 108,000 114,000 120,000
(Kilometers) (170 000) (180 000) (190 000) (200 000)
[Months] [102] [108] [114] [120]
Change engine oil and engine oil filter. X X X X
Rotate tires. X X X X
Check spare tire for proper pressure and correct stowage. X X X X
Drain and refill tranfer case fluid (4X4). X
Flush and replace engine coolant, if not done at 60
months. X
Flush and replace engine coolant, if not done at 102,000
miles (170 000 km) X
Inspect brake linings. X
Inspect engine air cleaner filter, replace as necessary. X
Replace spark plugs. X
Inspect PCV valve, replace as necessary.** X
** This maintenance is recommended by the manufac-
turer to the owner, but not required to maintain the
emissions warranty.
Inspection and service should also be performed anytime a
malfunction is observed or suspected. Retain all receipts.
378 SCHEDULE “A”
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License............................. 353
Lights On Reminder .................... 116
Low Fuel ......................... 152,153
Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine) ........ 157
Passing ............................. 118
Seat Belt Reminder ..................... 153
Service .............................. 341
Turn Signal ........................ 1 17,348
Warning (Instrument Cluster Description) ..... 152
Washer Fluid ......................... 157
Limited-Slip Differential ................... 223
Loading Vehicle ......................... 258
Tires ............................... 234
Locks ................................. 15
Auto Unlock .......................... 17
Automatic Door ........................ 17
Child Protection ........................ 19
Door ................................ 15
Ignition .............................. 13 Keys
................................ 10
Power Door ........................... 16
Steering Wheel ......................... 13
Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH) . 60
Lubricating Oil ......................... 332
Lubrication, Body ....................... 318
Lug Nuts ............................. 291
Lumbar Support ........................ 107
Maintenance Free Battery .................. 315
Maintenance Procedures ................... 307
Maintenance Schedule .................... 361
Schedule “A” ......................... 375
Schedule “B” ......................... 364
Maintenance, Sunroof ..................... 140
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) . . 157,305
Manual, Service ......................... 386
Manual Transmission ...............201,209,328
Fluid Level Check ...................... 328
398 INDEX