Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV (Compact SUV segment based on shared platform, but with a more rugged image).
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a capable, stylish, and rugged SUV with American styling cues, often compared to Jeep models due to platform sharing.
Key Competitors:
Jeep Liberty (KJ/KK), Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V (though Nitro often positioned as more robust).
Design:
Distinctive, aggressive styling with a prominent crosshair grille and upright stance.
Capability:
Available with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and part-time or full-time four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, offering some off-road or all-weather capability.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with powerful V6 and V8 engines.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs, saving money and ensuring quality service.
Target User:
Dodge Nitro 2007 owners, DIY enthusiasts, professional automotive technicians.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, internal component overhaul, tuning, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, evaporative emissions control (EVAP).
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, coil-on-plug systems, ignition timing.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, control modules (ECU/PCM).
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, internal components.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, internal components, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, axles, differentials, four-wheel drive (4WD) system components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs.
Steering:
Steering column, steering rack/gear, power steering system, tie rod ends.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components (master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders), brake pads, brake rotors, ABS system.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seating, HVAC system, glass replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, battery maintenance.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, fluid flushes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid).
Removal Installation:
Comprehensive instructions for component removal and reinstallation across all major systems.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for taking apart and rebuilding various assemblies (e.g., engines, transmissions).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for the complete overhaul of major components like engines and transmissions.
Alignment Specifications:
Wheel alignment parameters and adjustment procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Advanced diagnostics and complete repair/overhaul procedures, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
Proprietary Components:
Includes instructions for proprietary components and references manufacturer instructions where applicable.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of special tools required for specific adjustments and repairs.
Engine 1 Displacement:
3.7L V6 (SOHC)
Engine 1 Power:
Approximately 210-215 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approximately 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
4.0L V6 (SOHC)
Engine 2 Power:
Approximately 260 hp @ 5800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approximately 265 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3 Displacement:
5.7L V8 HEMI (OHV)
Engine 3 Power:
Approximately 302-360 hp (depending on application, e.g., SRT variant)
Engine 3 Torque:
Approximately 370-390 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (for 3.7L and 4.0L V6); 89 Octane recommended for 5.7L HEMI for optimal performance.
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good (for 2007 model year)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good (for 2007 model year)
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Good (for 2007 model year)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
Good (for 2007 model year)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for 2007 model year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Airbags Front:
Standard front advanced multi-stage airbags
Airbags Side:
Available side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe service interval may be shorter.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 1 year
Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L:
Every 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:
Every 100,000 miles (Iridium plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles for RWD, 30,000 miles for severe service or 4WD use. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil 3.7L/4.0L:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or newer certified. Capacity approx. 6 quarts with filter.
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer certified. Capacity approx. 7 quarts with filter.
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (5/150) HOAT (5/100) or equivalent (Orange) long-life coolant. Capacity approx. 13.2 quarts.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (MS-9602). Capacity approx. 4.5 quarts for pan drop.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (often ATF+4 for some Chrysler products).
Cv Axle Boots:
Premature wear and tearing of front CV axle boots leading to clicking noises.
Heater Core:
Potential for heater core leaks or failure, leading to coolant loss and fogging windows.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearing failures can occur, causing grinding or humming noises.
Transmission Shifting:
Some reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement with the automatic transmission.
Engine Performance 3.7L:
Can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves with higher mileage, impacting performance.