Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet owners, enthusiasts
Competitors 2006 2007:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra
Vehicle Strengths This Era:
Robust powertrain options, comfortable ride (especially with independent front suspension), distinctive styling, strong towing and payload capacity
Benefit To Owner:
Enables cost-effective maintenance and repair, enhances understanding of vehicle systems, supports accurate diagnosis, facilitates proper upkeep
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (automatic and manual), Drivetrain (2WD/4WD, differentials, axles)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, hydraulic, parking), Frame
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, Battery, Charging system, Starting system, Ignition system, Lighting, Instruments, HVAC controls, Power accessories, Chassis Control Modules (CCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM)
Body:
Exterior body panels, Interior trim, Doors, Seats, Glass, HVAC system (ducts, controls), Restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), Filter replacements, Lubrication points
Repair Overhaul:
Engine overhaul and component replacement, Transmission rebuild, Suspension component replacement, Brake system repair, Steering system repair, Electrical component diagnostics and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with explanations, Symptom-based troubleshooting, Schematics and pinpoint tests
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications, Clearances, Alignment specifications, Electrical resistance values, Pressure readings
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics)
Engine Option 1 Name:
3.7L Magnum V6
Engine Option 1 Code:
(ECA)
Engine Option 1 Displacement Liters:
3.7
Engine Option 1 Horsepower Hp:
215
Engine Option 1 Torque Lbft:
235
Engine Option 2 Name:
4.7L Magnum V8 (2-valve)
Engine Option 2 Code:
(EVA)
Engine Option 2 Displacement Liters:
4.7
Engine Option 2 Horsepower Hp:
235
Engine Option 2 Torque Lbft:
305
Engine Option 3 Name:
5.7L HEMI V8 (345)
Engine Option 3 Code:
(EVA)
Engine Option 3 Displacement Liters:
5.7
Engine Option 3 Horsepower Hp:
345
Engine Option 3 Torque Lbft:
375
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Engine Management:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS), Electronic Ignition (EI), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE)
Optional Transmission Type V6:
4-speed Automatic (42RLE) for some V6 configurations
Optional Transmission Type V8:
6-speed Manual (NV3500) available on select models/trims
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, Torque converter lock-up clutch
Wheelbase Inches:
Varies by cab configuration (e.g., 139.0" for Regular Cab, 154.7" for Quad Cab/Crew Cab)
Overall Length Inches:
Varies by cab and bed configuration (e.g., 222.0" to 245.0")
Front Track Width Inches:
Approx. 67.5
Rear Track Width Inches:
Approx. 66.9
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:
Approx. 6,500 - 8,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Max Towing Capacity Lbs:
Up to 8,700 lbs (with appropriate engine and configuration)
Max Payload Capacity Lbs:
Up to 2,000 lbs (with appropriate configuration)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver Rating 2006:
Five Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger Rating 2006:
Five Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating 2006:
Good
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (standard on most models), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard
Traction Control:
Available Electronic Traction Control (ETC)
Airbags:
Advanced Multi-Stage Front Airbags (driver and passenger), Available Side Curtain Airbags (on select models)
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelt pretensioners, Height-adjustable shoulder belts
Available Infotainment Options:
AM/FM Stereo with CD Player, Sirius Satellite Radio, Optional Premium Audio System, Optional Navigation System (Uconnect may be introduced in later models of this generation but less common in 06-07)
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Trailer Brake Controller (factory option for towing)
Connectivity Features:
12V Auxiliary Power Outlet
Engine Oil Change Miles Km:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (severe use may require more frequent changes)
Engine Air Filter Replacement Miles Km:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (severe conditions may require replacement sooner)
Transmission Fluid Change Miles Km:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on transmission type and usage; refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Coolant Flush Miles Km:
Every 100,000 miles or 5 years (Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant HOAT)
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API Certified)
Engine Oil Type V8:
SAE 5W-20 Synthetic (API Certified - HEMI requires specific 5W-20)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
Mopar NV244/NV241 HD (Check manual for specific type)
Differential Fluid Type Front Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (or SAE 75W-140 for heavy duty/towing)
Common Issues 2006 2007:
Fuel pump failures, EGR valve issues, transmission solenoid failures (especially 45RFE/545RFE), exhaust manifold cracks (HEMI), front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), brake rotor warping.
Diagnostic Tips Manual Use:
The manual's diagnostic flowcharts and wiring diagrams are crucial for accurately pinpointing electrical faults and mechanical issues.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing history in the pickup truck market, known for powerful engines and durable construction dating back to the Power Wagon.
Third Generation Ram Introduction:
The third generation of the Dodge Ram (DN platform) was introduced for the 2002 model year, with significant updates for 2006 including the introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8 as a primary option and revised interior styling.
Key Updates 2006:
Refined HEMI V8 performance, updated interior materials and options, improved safety features, revised suspension tuning.
Manufacturing Locations:
Saltillo Truck Assembly, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly, USA
Truck Of The Year Awards This Generation:
The third-generation Ram platform received various accolades during its production run, often recognized for its HEMI engine and styling.
Reliability Ratings Typical:
While generally considered robust, reliability scores for this era can vary; key maintenance items are critical for longevity.
