Segment:
Full-size Sedan (Rear-wheel drive dominant platform)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops
Competitors:
Chevrolet Impala, Ford Crown Victoria, Toyota Avalon, Buick LaCrosse
Design Philosophy:
Retro-inspired styling, American muscle car heritage, spacious interior.
Powertrain Options:
Emphasis on V6 and V8 engines, rear-wheel drive.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform complex maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and maximizing vehicle lifespan.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharging (if applicable), engine diagnostics.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 42RLE, NAG1) overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service, shift control, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, ESP, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles, ball joints, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, tie rods, alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, sound deadening, climate control system (HVAC), dashboard.
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, diagnosis, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core), refrigerant service.
Infotainment And Electronics:
Audio system, navigation, Uconnect (if equipped), instrument cluster, body control module (BCM) functions.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, common fault diagnosis.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Using scan tools, interpreting sensor data, electrical testing methods, fuel system pressure testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including connector views and wire colors.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5 Stars (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5 Stars (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Side Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (TCS)
Stability Control:
Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP/ESC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional side curtain airbags.
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
7,500-10,000 miles (or 6-12 months) with synthetic oil
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:
100,000 miles (Spark plugs are critical for HEMI performance)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions and fluid type)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L:
5.0 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:
7.0 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and emissions, consult manual for alternatives)
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - Mopar OAT (Orange)
Common Complaint 1:
Water pump leaks (especially on HEMI engines)
Common Complaint 2:
Oil filter housing leaks (particularly on HEMI)
Common Complaint 3:
Torque converter shudder (on certain automatic transmissions)
Common Complaint 4:
Power steering pump noise or leaks
Common Complaint 5:
Front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends)
Marque Legacy:
Dodge, a long-standing American automotive brand with roots in performance and muscular vehicles.
Reintroduction:
The Charger nameplate was revived for 2006 model year, but this manual covers the distinct 2005 model, which served as a precursor and shared its platform.
Platform Origin:
Based on the Chrysler LX platform, shared with Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum, originally developed with Mercedes-Benz technology.
Manufacturing Plant:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Production Years For Platform:
2005-2010 (LX platform generation)