Yes. The Dodge Dakota was offered with a manual transmission in some configurations, though automatics were by far the most common option.
The Dodge Dakota, a midsize pickup produced by Dodge from 1986/87 through 2004/05 (two generations), carried a variety of engine and drivetrain choices. Across its production, the manual gearbox was available only on select trims and years, not as the standard setup. Availability varied by market, engine, and drive configuration, so a manual Dakota isn’t universal to every model year or trim level.
Generations and how manuals appeared
Below is a broad look at how manual transmissions appeared across the Dakota’s two generations. The information reflects factory options and common configurations reported by owners and catalogs. Exact availability can vary by year, trim, and region.
First generation (1987–1996)
In the first generation, a manual transmission was offered on certain configurations, though most Dakotas were ordered with automatics. The manual option was present on some combinations of engine, cab, and drivetrain, but it was not widespread across the entire lineup.
- Manual transmissions were available on select 1987–1996 Dakotas, but not as the standard or most common choice.
- Availability tended to be higher on base or specialty configurations and in markets where manual gearboxes were still favored.
Conclusion: The first-generation Dakota did include manual options, but they were relatively limited compared with automatics.
Second generation (1997–2004/05)
For the second generation, a manual transmission continued to be available in certain configurations, though automatics remained the dominant choice. As with the first generation, the manual option depended on year, engine, and trim, and it was not universally offered across all models.
- The 5-speed manual was available on some late-1990s to early-2000s configurations, though it was still not the norm.
- Most Dakotas from this generation were equipped with automatic transmissions, with the manual option catering to a smaller subset of buyers.
Conclusion: In the second generation, manual transmissions persisted in limited configurations, with automatics continuing to be the prevalent setup.
How to verify if a specific Dodge Dakota is manual
If you’re shopping for a Dakota and want to confirm whether it has a manual transmission, use these steps. The list explains how to verify a particular truck’s gearbox.
- Check the window sticker or build sheet for a transmission code that indicates a manual gearbox.
- Inspect the interior for a clutch pedal and a manual shift lever with a known gear pattern (usually 5 speeds in these trucks).
- Use the VIN lookup or contact the dealer with the VIN to confirm the original transmission type.
Conclusion: Verifying the transmission type through official documentation or a careful physical check is the most reliable way to confirm whether a specific Dakota is manual.
Practical notes for buyers and collectors
Manual Dakotas are relatively uncommon compared with automatics, which can affect pricing, maintenance, and parts availability. If you’re considering a manual example, budget for possible clutch work, transmission seals, and hardware that may be harder to source for older trucks.
Conclusion: A manual Dodge Dakota exists but is a niche find; detailed verification is advisable before purchase.
Summary
The Dodge Dakota did come in manual transmissions, but only in certain configurations across its two generations. Automatics were far more common, and the manual option varied by year, engine, and trim. For prospective buyers or restorers, the best approach is to verify the specific vehicle’s documentation or VIN to confirm the original transmission type.