Segment:
Full-size sedan and wagon (Magnum), personal luxury coupe/sedan (300/300C), performance sedan (Charger).
Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, Buick LaCrosse, Pontiac Grand Prix, Cadillac DTS/STS.
Platform Shared:
Shared LX platform with Mercedes-Benz E-Class of the era, contributing to solid chassis dynamics.
Rear Wheel Drive:
Predominantly rear-wheel-drive architecture, especially in performance variants, offering a classic driving feel.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul procedures, component identification, torque specifications for all applicable engines.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging, fuel injection, emissions control, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Mechanical:
Automatic transmission (e.g., NAG1/W5A580, 42RLE) repair, adjustment, and overhaul procedures.
Transmission Electrical:
Transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, sensor information, shift solenoids.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), brake rotor/pad replacement, caliper service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, shock absorber/strut service.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack repair.
Body Electrical:
Lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator).
Body And Frame:
Exterior trim, interior trim, body panel replacement, doors, hood, trunk, glass replacement.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics, component replacement, seat belt service.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually every major and minor component.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools, interpreting scan tool data, and performing electrical tests.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair.
Depth:
Complete factory-level repair information, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostic strategies, including PCM/ECU relearning procedures and component-specific testing.
Engine Options:
2.7L V6 (EER), 3.5L V6 (EGJ), 5.7L HEMI V8 (EZH), 6.1L HEMI SRT-8 V8 (ESF).
5.7L Hemi Horsepower:
340 hp @ 5000 rpm
5.7L Hemi Torque:
390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
6.1L Srt-8 Hemi Horsepower:
425 hp @ 6000 rpm
6.1L Srt-8 Hemi Torque:
420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (2.7L, 3.5L), 89 Octane Recommended for 5.7L HEMI, 91 Octane or higher for 6.1L SRT-8.
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger) for 300/Charger, 4-Star for Magnum.
NHTSA Side Crash:
5-Star (Front and Rear Occupants) for 300/Charger.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (TCS).
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available or standard on some models.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags (depending on trim).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to specific model/engine manual section).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions (check manual for specifics).
Spark Plug Replacement:
HEMI engines: ~100,000 miles (specific type may vary); 3.5L V6: ~100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (2.7L, 3.5L), SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 for 5.7L HEMI (check manual), SAE 0W-40 for 6.1L SRT-8.
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent.
Nodular Iron Crankshaft (Hemi):
Early HEMI engines (prior to certain serial numbers) had a potential issue with crankshaft material, though less common in this year.
Transmission Issues:
NAG1 transmission can experience harsh shifting or failure to shift if fluid level is low or fluid is degraded.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional reports of power steering pump whine or failure.
Window Regulators:
Potential for power window regulator failures.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge's history of muscle cars and distinctive styling, continued with these RWD platforms.
Lx Platform Introduction:
The LX platform marked a significant shift for Dodge and Chrysler, bringing European engineering influence and rear-wheel-drive.
Srt Development:
The SRT-8 variants represented Chrysler's performance division's enhancement of the platform, featuring larger engines and sport-tuned suspension.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly, Ontario, Canada.
