Positioning:
The 2008 Dodge Challenger marked the revival of a legendary muscle car nameplate, designed to compete directly with rivals like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. It aimed to blend retro styling with modern performance and technology.
Competitors:
Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro.
Design Philosophy:
Retro-inspired styling, rear-wheel drive, powerful V8 engine options, performance-oriented chassis.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables DIY repairs, saving significant costs; provides detailed, step-by-step guidance with visual aids for all service and repair tasks.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of all engine components (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing).
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emission control systems, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission Manual:
Service, repair, and overhaul of manual transmissions.
Transmission Automatic:
Service, repair, and overhaul of automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Axles, driveshafts, differentials, clutch (for manual), all-wheel-drive system (if applicable).
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering gear.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, chassis, rust repair, interior trim.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Restraint Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, SRS system.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
System-specific diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common problem identification.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all vehicle components.
Major Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhauls.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, high-resolution wiring schematics for all electrical systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Standard Transmission 3.5L:
4-speed automatic
Standard Transmission 5.7L:
5-speed automatic
Optional Transmission 5.7L:
6-speed manual (Tremec TR-6060)
Optional Transmission 6.1L:
6-speed manual (Tremec TR-6060)
Automatic Transmission Features:
AutoStick driver-selectable transmission.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or as indicated by oil life monitor.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for 3.5L V6 (platinum-tipped).
Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for 5.7L HEMI (if equipped with platinum plugs).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20 (for 3.5L and 5.7L HEMI, check manual for specific SRT engine).
Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L:
5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.
Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:
7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter.
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Orange.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific manual transmission fluid type (likely synthetic gear oil).
Common Complaints:
Minor electrical gremlins, some reports of HVAC blower motor issues, potential for water pump leaks on early HEMI models.
Heritage:
The Dodge Challenger nameplate has a storied history in American muscle car culture, dating back to its original introduction in 1970. The 2008 model was a deliberate callback to the iconic first-generation Challenger.
Generation Start:
This 2008 model represents the first year of the second generation (LC platform) Challenger, a significant return to production after a hiatus.
Manufacturing Plant:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.
