Segment:
Full-size Sedan/Wagon, Performance Sedan (SRT8)
Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala, Pontiac Grand Prix, Cadillac DTS/STS, Lincoln Town Car, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class (for 300C/SRT8)
Platform Advantage:
Rear-wheel-drive LX platform offered robust handling and powerful V8 options, distinguishing it from many front-wheel-drive competitors.
Performance Focus:
SRT8 models featured significantly upgraded powertrains, suspension, and braking for track-inspired performance.
Covered Models:
Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger, Dodge 300, Chrysler 300C, SRT8 variants across all models
Estimated Pages:
Over 2000 (estimated for comprehensive factory manual)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (5.7L HEMI, 6.1L HEMI), Transmission (5-Speed Automatic W5A580, 4-Speed Automatic 42RLE), Drivetrain (RWD, AWD), Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Independent Front & Rear), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (ABS, Front & Rear Disc)
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair, body panel repair and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, wiring diagrams, circuit testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and schematics.
Engine 1:
5.7L HEMI V8 (345 cu in) - MDS (Multi-Displacement System)
Engine 2:
6.1L HEMI V8 (370 cu in) - SRT8
Hp 5.7L:
340-345 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm (model dependent)
Torque 5.7L:
375-390 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm (model dependent)
Hp 6.1L Srt8:
425 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 6.1L Srt8:
420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for SRT8)
ECU Type:
NGC (Next Generation Controller) based PCM
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (W5A580) for most V8 models, 4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) for V6 models
Optional Transmission:
SRT8 models featured a reinforced 5-speed automatic (W5A580) with specific performance tuning.
Modes:
AutoStick manual shifting capability on W5A580 transmission
W5A580 Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA or equivalent)
42Rle Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA or equivalent)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 120 inches (model dependent)
Length:
Approx. 196-203 inches (model dependent)
Height:
Approx. 57-59 inches (model dependent)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3800-4300 lbs (model/drivetrain dependent)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5000-5500 lbs (model dependent)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.6 cu ft (sedan models)
Cargo Volume Magnum:
Approx. 27.2 cu ft (behind rear seats, Magnum wagon)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (front and rear passengers)
IIHS Status:
Good (various tests, model dependent)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available/standard depending on trim
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-curtain airbags, optional front-seat side airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and load-limiter equipped seatbelts
Audio System:
Optional Boston Acoustics premium sound system, Uconnect infotainment system with available navigation and Bluetooth.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control, dual-zone climate control available.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist system (ParkSense) available.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, adaptive cruise control not available for this model year.
Usb Ports:
Not standard; Uconnect systems may offer auxiliary audio input or early USB integration depending on specific unit.
Keyless Entry:
Keyless entry, remote start available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles, or based on transmission fluid condition and performance. Check manual for specific interval.
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter. Use Mopar OAT coolant.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic (API certified). Capacity: ~7 quarts (5.7L HEMI), ~7.1 quarts (6.1L HEMI).
Coolant Spec:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Typically purple.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Hemi Carbon Buildup:
Potential for carbon buildup on intake valves with older fuel formulations or short-trip driving. Intake manifold cleaning may be required.
Transmission Issues:
W5A580 transmission can sometimes develop solenoid issues or torque converter shudder. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Power Steering Pump:
Some reports of premature power steering pump failure or leaks.
Catalytic Converters:
Potential for premature failure, especially on higher-mileage vehicles or those subjected to aggressive driving.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles, particularly with its HEMI engine lineage.
Lx Platform Introduction:
The LX platform debuted in 2005 for the Charger and 300, followed by the Magnum for 2005/2006, offering a more premium and performance-oriented experience than previous Dodge platforms.
Srt8 Development:
SRT (Street and Racing Technology) divisions developed the SRT8 variants to capitalize on the powerful HEMI engines and enhance chassis dynamics for track-capable performance.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Performance Awards:
SRT8 models were frequently lauded by automotive press for their potent performance at a competitive price point.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varied; often praised for power and styling, but sometimes criticized for fuel economy and specific reliability concerns.
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA emissions standards for its model year.
