Segment:
Full-size sedan, RWD emphasis
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, Buick LaCrosse
Vehicle Appeals:
Retro styling cues, powerful optional V8 engines (though not on LX), spacious interior, RWD platform for handling enthusiasts
Manual Value Proposition:
Cost-effective alternative to dealership service, empowering owners with knowledge for maintenance and repair
Engine:
2.7L V6 (EER), 3.5L V6 (EGJ)
Transmission:
4-speed automatic (42RLE)
Drivetrain:
Rear axle, driveshaft, differential
Suspension:
Front independent double-wishbone, Rear multi-link independent
Brakes:
Front disc (solid/vented), Rear disc, ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning systems
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, glass replacement
Restraints:
Airbag systems, seat belts
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repairs, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic data
Calibration:
Wheel alignment, sensor calibration (e.g., ABS sensors)
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of required special tools
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced component overhaul and electrical system diagnostics
Engine Type 2.7L:
SOHC V6
Displacement 2.7L:
2.7 Liters / 162 cubic inches
Horsepower 2.7L:
190 hp @ 5850 rpm
Torque 2.7L:
190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Type 3.5L:
SOHC V6
Displacement 3.5L:
3.5 Liters / 215 cubic inches
Horsepower 3.5L:
250 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque 3.5L:
250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Engine Control Module:
Integrated Powertrain Control Module (IPCM)
NHTSA Front Driver Side Crash:
5-Star (2006 model year)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Crash:
5-Star (2006 model year)
NHTSA Side Driver Door Crash:
5-Star (2006 model year)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Crash:
5-Star (2006 model year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (2006 model year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Airbags Front:
Advanced front driver and passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front and rear side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km) or as per manual guidance.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000-100,000 miles (80,000-160,000 km) or as per manual recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (Chrysler MS-6395)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically pink
Common Problem 1:
Water pump leaks (especially on the 2.7L V6)
Common Problem 2:
Fuel pump failure
Common Problem 3:
CV joint wear (on RWD models, more typical of AWD but can occur)
Common Problem 4:
Transmission issues (e.g., harsh shifting, torque converter problems with the 42RLE)
Common Problem 5:
Electrical gremlins (e.g., BCM issues, power window failures)
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing performance-oriented and distinctively styled American vehicles.
Chargers History:
The Charger nameplate has been used on various iconic Dodge models, including muscle cars of the 1960s and 70s. The 2006 model marked the revival of the Charger as a modern, four-door sedan with rear-wheel-drive.
Model Year Introduction:
2006
Assembly Location:
Brampton Assembly, Ontario, Canada
Platform Sharing:
Shares the LX platform with the Dodge Magnum, Dodge Challenger (2008+), Chrysler 300, and Dodge Charger Pursuit (police vehicle).
