Dodge 2008 Dakota User manual

Dakota
OWNER’S MANUAL
2008
2008 Dakota
81-326-0834 First Edition Printed in U.S.A.

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 ......................................... 161
5
STARTING AND OPERATING .................................................227
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES ...............................................325
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ...............................................343
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES ..................................................401
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE ..........................................409
10
INDEX ....................................................................419
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
mIntroduction ...........................4
mHow To Use This Manual ..................4
mWarnings And Cautions ...................6
mVehicle Identification Number ...............6
mVehicle Modifications/Alterations ............7
1

INTRODUCTION
This Owner’s Manual has been prepared with the assis-
tance of service and engineering specialists to acquaint
you with the operation and maintenance of your vehicle.
It is supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet
and various customer-oriented documents. You are
urged to read these publications carefully. Following the
instructions 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 authorized
dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained
technicians and genuine Mopartparts, and is interested
in your satisfaction.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
Consult the Table of Contents to determine which section
contains the information you desire.
The detailed index at the back of this Owner’s Manual
contains a complete listing of all subjects.
Consult the following table for a description of the
symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout
this Owner’s Manual:
4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION 5
1

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
This manual contains WARNINGS against operating
procedures which could result in an accident or bodily
injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against 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.
VIN Plate Location
6 INTRODUCTION

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 7
1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
mA Word About Your Keys ..................12
▫Ignition Key Removal ...................12
▫Locking Doors With The Key ..............14
mSentry Keyt...........................15
▫Replacement Keys ......................16
▫Customer Key Programming ..............17
▫General Information ....................18
mSteering Wheel Lock — If Equipped ..........18
▫If You Wish To Manually Lock The Steering
Wheel ..............................18
▫To Release The Steering Wheel Lock .........18
▫Automatic Transmission Ignition Interlock
System ..............................19
mSecurity Alarm System — If Equipped .........19
▫To Set The Alarm ......................19
▫To Disarm The System ...................19
mIlluminated Entry ........................20
▫Vehicles Equipped With Power Door Locks ....20
2

mRemote Keyless Entry .....................21
▫To Unlock The Doors ...................21
▫To Lock The Doors .....................22
▫Using The Panic Alarm ..................23
▫General Information ....................24
▫Programming Additional Transmitters ........24
▫Battery Replacement ....................26
mRemote Starting System — If Equipped ........27
mDoor Locks ............................28
▫Manual Door Locks .....................28
▫Power Door Locks .....................29
▫Child Protection Door Lock ...............32
mWindows .............................33
▫Power Windows .......................33
▫Auto Down (Driver’s Side Only) ...........34
▫Window Lockout Switch .................34
▫Wind Buffeting ........................35
mOccupant Restraints ......................35
▫Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................36
▫Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....40
▫Automatic Locking Retractors (ALR) Mode – If
Equipped ............................41
▫Center Lap Belts .......................42
▫Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................42
▫Enhanced Driver Seat Belt Reminder System
(BeltAlertt) ..........................43
▫Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............44
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

▫Seat Belt Extender ......................44
▫Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) – Airbags ...........45
▫Event Data Recorder (EDR) ...............54
▫Child Restraint ........................56
mEngine Break-In Recommendations ...........69
mSafety Tips ............................70
▫Exhaust System .......................70
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle ..............................71
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle ..............................72
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
2

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
The authorized dealer that sold you your new vehicle has
the key code numbers for your vehicle locks. These
numbers can be used to order duplicate keys from your
authorized dealer. Ask your authorized dealer for these
numbers and keep them in a safe place.
Ignition Key Removal
Automatic Transmission
Place the shift lever in PARK. Turn the ignition switch to
the LOCK position, and remove the key.
Ignition Key
Ignition Switch Positions
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: If you try to remove the key before you place the
shift lever in PARK, the key may become temporarily
trapped in the ignition cylinder. If this occurs, rotate the
key to the right slightly, then remove the key as de-
scribed. If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap the
key in the ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety
feature is inoperable. The engine can be started and
stopped, but the key cannot be removed until you obtain
service.
WARNING!
Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving
unattended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a
number of reasons. A child or others could be seri-
ously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the key in the
ignition. A child could operate power windows,
other controls, or move the vehicle.
CAUTION!
An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always
remove the key from the ignition and lock all the
doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
2

Manual Transmission—If Equipped
When the steering wheel is in the LOCK position, the
steering and ignition systems are locked to provide
antitheft protection for your vehicle. It may be difficult to
turn the key from the LOCK position when starting your
vehicle. Move the steering wheel left and right while
turning the key until it turns easily. To remove the key,
depress and hold the release button located between the
ignition switch and the instrument panel. Turn the igni-
tion key to LOCK and remove the key.
Locking Doors With The Key
You can insert the key into the door lock cylinder with
either side up. To lock the driver’s door, turn the key
rearward. To unlock the driver’s door, turn the key
forward. For external door lock lubrication, refer to
“Body Lubrication” in Section 7.
Ignition Key Release Button
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

SENTRY KEYT
The Sentry KeytImmobilizer system prevents unautho-
rized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The
system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation
is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked
or unlocked.
The system uses ignition keys which have an embedded
electronic chip (transponder) to prevent unauthorized
vehicle operation. Therefore, only keys that are pro-
grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate
the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two
seconds if someone uses an invalid key to try to start the
engine.
NOTE: A key which has not been programmed is also
considered an invalid key, even if it is cut to fit the
ignition switch lock cylinder for that vehicle.
During normal operation, after turning on the ignition
switch, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will
turn on for three seconds for a bulb check. If the light
remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is
a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light
begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that
someone used an invalid key to try to start the engine.
Either of these conditions will result in the engine being
shut off after two seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light turns on
during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for
longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in
the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle ser-
viced as soon as possible.
NOTE:
• The Sentry KeytImmobilizer System is not compat-
ible with some aftermarket remote starting systems.
Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting
problems and loss of security protection.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
2

• Exxon/Mobil Speedpass™, additional Sentry Keyst,
or any other transponder-equipped components on
the same key chain will not cause a key related
(transponder) fault unless the additional part is physi-
cally held against the ignition key being used when
starting the vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF
electronics will not cause interference with this system.
All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have
been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
Replacement Keys
NOTE: Only keys that are programmed to the vehicle
electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle.
Once a Sentry Keytis programmed to a vehicle, it cannot
be programmed to any other vehicle.
CAUTION!
Always remove the Sentry Keystfrom the vehicle
and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle
unattended.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN).
Keep the PIN in a secure location. This number is
required for authorized dealer replacement of keys. Du-
plication of keys may be performed at an authorized
dealer or by following the customer key programming
procedure. This procedure consists of programming a
blank key to the vehicle electronics. A blank key is one
which has never been programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry KeytImmobilizer
System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an
authorized dealer.
16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Customer Key Programming
If you have two valid Sentry Keyst, you can program
new Sentry Keystto the system by performing the
following procedure:
1. Cut the additional Sentry KeytTransponder blank(s)
to match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.
2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch. Turn
the ignition switch to the ON position for at least three
seconds, but no longer than 15 seconds. Then, turn the
ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the first
key.
3. Insert the second valid key into the ignition switch.
Turn the ignition switch to the ON position within 15
seconds. After 10 seconds, a chime will sound. In addi-
tion, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will
begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK
position and remove the second key.
4. Insert a blank Sentry Keytinto the ignition switch.
Turn the ignition switch to the ON position within 60
seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound. In
addition, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will
stop flashing. To indicate that programming is complete,
the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will turn on
again for three seconds and then turn off.
The new Sentry Keytis programmed. The Remote
Keyless Entry transmitter will also be programmed
during this procedure.
Repeat this procedure to program up to eight keys. If you
do not have a programmed Sentry Keyt, contact your
authorized dealer for details.
NOTE: If a programmed key is lost, see your authorized
dealer to have all remaining keys erased from the sys-
tem’s memory. This will prevent the lost key from
starting your vehicle. The remaining keys must then be
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
2

reprogrammed. All vehicle keys must be taken to an
authorized dealer at the time of service to be repro-
grammed.
General Information
The Sentry Keytsystem complies with FCC rules Part 15
and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is
subject to the following conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference that may be
received, including interference that may cause undes-
ired operation.
STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering
wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle with-
out the ignition key. If the steering wheel is moved no
more than 1/2 turn in either direction, and the key is not
in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock.
If You Wish To Manually Lock The Steering
Wheel:
With the engine running, turn the steering wheel upside
down, turn off the engine and remove the key. Turn the
steering wheel slightly in either direction until the lock
engages.
To Release The Steering Wheel Lock:
Insert the key in the ignition switch and start the engine.
If the key is difficult to turn, move the wheel slightly to
the right or left to disengage the lock.
NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage
the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage
the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it.
Automatic Transmission Ignition Interlock System
This system prevents the key from being removed unless
the shift lever is in PARK. It also prevents shifting out of
PARK unless the key is in the ACC, or ON position, and
the brake pedal is depressed.
SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
This system monitors the vehicle doors and ignition for
unauthorized operation. When the alarm is activated, the
system provides both audible and visual signals. The
horn will sound repeatedly for three minutes and the
headlights and Security Light in the instrument cluster
will flash for an additional 15 minutes. The engine will
not run until the system is disarmed.
To Set The Alarm:
The alarm will set when you use the power door locks or
use the Keyless Entry transmitter to lock the doors. After
all the doors are locked and closed, the Security Light in
the instrument cluster will flash rapidly to signal that the
system is arming. The Security Light in the instrument
panel cluster will flash rapidly for about 15 seconds to
indicate that the alarm is being set. After the alarm is set,
the Security Light will flash at a slower rate to indicate
that the system is armed.
NOTE: If the Security LightT stays on continuously
during vehicle operation, have the system checked by
your authorized dealer.
To Disarm The System:
Use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to
unlock the doors. If something has triggered the system
in your absence, the horn will sound three times when
you unlock the doors. Check the vehicle for tampering.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
2