1st Gen
Dodge Dakota (1987–1996)
Maintenance Schedule
7 recurring services keep the 1987–1996 Dodge Dakota healthy — starting with oil changes every 5,000 miles. Budget roughly $1,200–1,800 in routine maintenance over 100,000 miles at typical U.S. shop prices.
Applies to model years 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
Full schedule
Intervals follow the factory maintenance schedule for the 1987-1996 Dodge Dakota. Cost ranges are typical U.S. shop prices.
| Service | Interval | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 mi or 6 mo | $20–30 | Engine oil and filter replacement |
| Transmission Service | Every 30,000 mi or 30 mo | $70–100 | Transmission fluid and filter change |
| Spark Plugs | Every 30,000 mi or 3 yr | $50–80 | Spark plug replacement |
| Brake Fluid | Every 30,000 mi or 30 mo | $40–60 | Brake fluid flush and replacement |
| Coolant Service | Every 30,000 mi or 3 yr | $50–75 | Coolant flush and replacement |
| Transfer Case Service | Every 36,000 mi or 3 yr | $50–75 | Transfer case fluid change (4WD models) |
| Differential Service | Every 36,000 mi or 3 yr | $40–60 | Front and rear differential fluid change |
Common questions
How often should I change the oil on a 1987–1996 Dodge Dakota?
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. A typical U.S. shop charges $20–30. Engine oil and filter replacement.
How much does it cost to maintain a Dodge Dakota (1987–1996)?
Routine maintenance on the 1987–1996 Dodge Dakota runs roughly $1,200–1,800 over 100,000 miles at typical U.S. shop prices, spread across 7 recurring services. Independent shops usually land near the low end; dealers near the high end.
What is the most expensive scheduled service on this Dakota?
Transmission Service at $70–100, due every 30,000 miles. Transmission fluid and filter change.
Cost ranges are estimates for typical U.S. independent shops and dealers; your local prices will vary. Always confirm intervals against your owner's manual — severe driving conditions (towing, short trips, extreme heat or cold) shorten many of them.