🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Charger

Year:

2006

Platform:

LX Platform (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 Dodge Charger represented a revival of a classic nameplate, repositioning the Charger as a rear-wheel-drive, performance-oriented full-size sedan with a blend of muscle car heritage and modern comfort.

Key Competitors:

Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala, Pontiac Grand Prix, Buick LaCrosse, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima

Value Proposition:

Offers a compelling combination of powerful engine options (especially the HEMI V8), aggressive styling, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and a spacious interior for its class. This repair manual empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicles, saving on dealership costs.

Diy Focus:

Designed for the do-it-yourself mechanic, providing the same detailed information used by certified technicians, enabling owners to tackle most maintenance and repair tasks.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Repair and Service

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific model/engine configuration, but typical for comprehensive manuals is 2000+ pages.

Type:

Factory Authorized Repair and Service Manual (PDF Shop Manual)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

3.5L V6 (GEMA), 5.7L V8 HEMI (EZH/ESF)

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan assembly

Transmission:

5-speed automatic (W5A580 for HEMI, 42RLE for V6)

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD), differential, driveshaft, axles

Chassis:

Frame, subframes, body structure

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, stabilizer bars

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors

Wheels And Tires:

Tire sizes, wheel specifications, lug nut torque, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel lines, evaporative emissions (EVAP) system

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes, hangers

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows/locks/mirrors

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seating, HVAC system

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

OBD-II codes and troubleshooting procedures

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for repairs

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups

Diagnostics:

System testing, component diagnosis, troubleshooting flowcharts

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation

Rebuilds:

Engine and transmission rebuild procedures (where applicable)

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allows for easy navigation and printing of specific pages. Compatible with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free).

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for clear printing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Variant:

3.5L SOHC V6 (GEMA)

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3497 cc)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.8:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

250 hp @ 6400 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Engine 2 Variant:

5.7L OHV V8 HEMI (EZH/ESF)

Engine 2 Displacement:

5.7 Liters (5654 cc)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 90.9 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

340 hp @ 5000 rpm (standard), 350 hp @ 5000 rpm (R/T)

Engine 2 Torque:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (standard), 390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (R/T)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane recommended (91 octane for optimal HEMI performance)

Hemifeatures:

Includes Multi-Displacement System (MDS) for fuel economy on HEMI models.

🔧 Transmission

V6 Transmission:

42RLE 4-speed automatic

V8 Transmission:

W5A580 5-speed automatic (Mercedes-Benz sourced)

Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Cooling:

Integrated transmission cooler within the radiator or separate auxiliary cooler on some models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

120.0 inches (3048 mm)

Length:

199.1 inches (5057 mm)

Width:

74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

58.4 inches (1483 mm)

Curb Weight V6:

Approx. 3836 lbs (1739 kg)

Curb Weight Hemi:

Approx. 4100 lbs (1860 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 5200-5500 lbs (2359-2495 kg)

Trunk Volume:

16.2 cubic feet (459 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars (2006 Model)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars (2006 Model)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars (2006 Model)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars (2006 Model)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

5 Stars (2006 Model)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5 Stars (2006 Model)

NHTSA Rollover:

4 Stars (2006 Model)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability:

Available Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Airbags:

Front advanced multi-stage airbags, available front side-impact airbags, available side-curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Pretensioner and load-limiter equipped front seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured a Boston Acoustics premium audio system. Higher trims could be equipped with CD/MP3 players, Sirius Satellite Radio, and a Uconnect hands-free communication system (optional).

Driver Assistance Features:

Availability of features like rear parking assist sensors.

Connectivity Options:

Uconnect system offered Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles or as indicated by the Oil Change Indicator System, using appropriate oil viscosity.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect annually, replace as needed.

Spark Plugs V6:

Replace every 100,000 miles (longer life spark plugs).

Spark Plugs Hemi:

Replace every 100,000 miles (HEMI specific spark plugs, e.g., Champion copper core).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule, using ATF+4.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 100,000 miles or 5 years, using Mopar HOAT coolant.

Engine Oil V6:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or equivalent (check manual for specific certification).

Engine Oil Hemi:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent (check manual for specific certification).

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT), 50/50 mixture with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues:

While generally robust, common issues can include: front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), minor electrical gremlins, potential for intake manifold vacuum leaks on V6 engines, occasional transmission solenoid issues on the 5.7L HEMI.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing powerful and distinctive American cars, with the Charger nameplate evoking muscle car era performance and style.

Generation Start:

The 2006 model year marked the debut of the second generation Dodge Charger, a significant departure from its predecessor. It was built on the Chrysler LX platform, shared with the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.

Design Philosophy:

Designed to blend classic Charger styling cues with modern sedan practicality and performance. The distinctive crosshair grille, sloping roofline, and aggressive stance were key design elements.

Assembly Plant:

Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

The Dodge Charger received positive reviews for its styling, performance, and comfortable ride. While specific awards can be numerous and vary year to year, it was generally well-regarded within its segment.