Segment:
Mid-size/Full-size Sports Wagon, niche market
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a practical yet powerful and stylish American wagon
Competitors:
Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon (though more luxury-oriented), Cadillac CTS Wagon (later models)
Unique Selling Proposition:
American muscle car ethos in a practical wagon body style, RWD platform, potent HEMI V8 option
Design Philosophy:
Aggressive styling, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, versatile cargo space
Engine:
3.5L V6 (G/E) and 5.7L V8 HEMI (R/T) - including diagnostics, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) and 5-Speed Automatic (W5A580 for R/T) - including overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service, control systems
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variants - including driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (double wishbone), Rear multi-link suspension - including alignment, shocks, struts, control arms, bushings, springs
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, power steering pump and lines
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS) - including pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, hydraulic system, bleeding
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows/locks/mirrors, accessory circuits
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, glass, chassis components, rust prevention
Climate Control:
HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, heater core
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, pretensioners, SRS system diagnostics
Diagnostic Tools:
OBD-II diagnostics, trouble code (DTC) interpretation, diagnostic procedures
Maintenance:
Routine oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, thermostat, fuel injectors), transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension rebuild, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic trees, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, alignment specifications, fluid capacities, electrical system schematics
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds, including component tolerances and clearances
Installation:
Procedures for installing common aftermarket or replacement parts where applicable
Depth Of Coverage:
Expert level, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Capability:
In-depth diagnostic procedures, including sensor data interpretation and module testing
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5-Star (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-Star (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5-Star (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-Star (2005 Model Year)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal:
Good (2005 Model Year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2005 Model Year)
Traction Control:
Standard (Electronic Traction Control - ETC)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional on some trims, known as Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) (original equipment platinum plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) (original equipment platinum plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (ATF+4 for 42RLE) or 80,000 miles (128,000 km) for W5A580 (MB 236.14)
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20 (API SN or newer) - Mopar P/N 68001334AA
Coolant Spec:
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) Hybrid, HOAT Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar P/N 05010885AA (Purple)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid (P/N 04549263AA) or equivalent ATF+4
Common Issue 1:
Rattling noise from exhaust heat shields (especially on HEMI)
Common Issue 2:
Minor electrical glitches, particularly with window regulators or door lock actuators
Common Issue 3:
Wear on front suspension bushings and ball joints, leading to clunking noises
Common Issue 4:
Rear differential pinion seal leaks on some AWD models
Common Issue 5:
HEMI MDS (Multi-Displacement System) lifter tick or noise if not properly maintained