Segment:
Full-size station wagon/hatchback with a performance-oriented image, competing with vehicles like the Chevrolet Impala, Ford Five Hundred, and European luxury wagons.
Key Rivals 2006:
Chevrolet Impala, Ford Five Hundred, Buick LaCrosse, Toyota Avalon, Volkswagen Passat Wagon.
Design Philosophy:
American muscle car styling adapted to a practical wagon/hatchback form factor, unique in its segment for its aggressive styling and available V8 power.
Powertrain Options:
Offered a range of engines from an economical V6 to the potent 5.7L HEMI V8, providing a distinct performance edge.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine diagnostics, performance tuning.
Transmission Mechanical:
Internal components, torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, seals, bands.
Transmission Electronic:
Transmission Control Module (TCM), sensors, solenoids, shift logic, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, power steering system, steering column.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, Body Control Module (BCM).
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control module, refrigerant, blower motor, actuators.
Body And Trim:
Interior and exterior trim removal/installation, body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, structural components, exhaust system, fuel system (tanks, lines, pump).
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module, diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, DTC interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, component replacement, alignment procedures.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, circuit testing.
Recalibration Procedures:
Throttle body relearn, steering angle sensor calibration, adaptive transmission learning.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic strategies.
Engine 2.7L V6:
2.7L (2736cc) EER V6, SOHC, 190 hp @ 6000 rpm, 190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Notable for its smooth operation but less performance-oriented.
Engine 3.5L V6:
3.5L (3518cc) EGJ V6, SOHC, 250 hp @ 6400 rpm, 250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm. A strong balance of power and efficiency.
Engine 5.7L Hemi V8:
5.7L (5654cc) EZB V8, OHV, HEMI, Multi-Displacement System (MDS), 340 hp @ 5000 rpm, 390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Offers significant performance gains and fuel economy improvements via MDS.
Compression Ratio Hemi:
9.6:1
Bore Stroke Hemi:
3.917 in x 3.578 in (99.5 mm x 90.9 mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6, 89 octane recommended for 5.7L HEMI for optimal performance)
Injection System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for 2006)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2006)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2006)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2006)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for 2006)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for 2006)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (TCS) on all models. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) often optional or standard on higher trims.
Ebs:
Available Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) integrated with ABS.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners, and load limiters for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs 2.7L/3.5L:
Replace at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped plugs.
Spark Plugs 5.7L Hemi:
Replace at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped plugs. Ensure MDS system is understood during replacement.
Engine Oil 2.7L/3.5L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer. Capacity: 5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter.
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer. Capacity: 7.0 US quarts (6.6 L) with filter. Consider 0W-20 for improved cold starts and fuel economy.
Transmission Fluid 42Rle:
ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA or equivalent). Capacity: 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) for fluid change, 10.0 US quarts (9.4 L) for overhaul.
Transmission Fluid W5A580:
ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA or equivalent) or MB 236.10 specification. Capacity: 5.5 US quarts (5.2 L) for fluid change, 8.0 US quarts (7.6 L) for overhaul.
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent extended life coolant, typically orange or pink. Mopar Part number 05103539AA (gallon concentrate). Capacity: approx. 10-12 US quarts (9.5-11.4 L) depending on engine.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible (check reservoir cap). Use SAE J1703 or ISO 4925 compatible fluid.
Hemi Lifter Tick:
Some HEMI engines can develop a ticking noise from the valve train, often related to lifters or MDS system components. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Transmission Harsh Shifts:
The 42RLE transmission can sometimes exhibit harsh shifts. Fluid changes and relearn procedures are often effective, detailed in the manual.
Wheel Speed Sensors:
ABS/TCS warning lights can illuminate due to faulty wheel speed sensors. Manual details their location and testing.
Power Window Motors:
Occasional failures of power window regulators and motors are reported. Manual covers their replacement.