🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Charger

Year:

2005

Trim Level:

LX

Chassis Code:

LC

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Charger LX (2005) represented a revival of the iconic Charger nameplate, targeting a segment of buyers seeking a stylish, powerful, rear-wheel-drive sedan with a muscular American aesthetic and available V8 performance.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, and potentially entry-level luxury sedans depending on trim and options.

Platform:

Built on Chrysler's rear-wheel-drive LX platform, sharing components with the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasized retro-styling cues reminiscent of earlier Charger models, combined with modern sedan practicality and performance.

Powertrain Options:

Offered with the efficient 3.5L V6 and the potent 5.7L HEMI V8 with Multi-Displacement System (MDS).

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 1500-2500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

3.5L V6 (High Output), 5.7L V8 HEMI (including MDS)

Transmission:

5-Speed Automatic (W5A580, NAG1)

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Suspension:

Front: Independent Short/Long Arm (SLA) with Coil-Over Shock Absorbers. Rear: Multi-Link Independent with Coil Springs.

Brakes:

Front: Ventilated Discs. Rear: Solid Discs. ABS, EBD, Brake Assist.

Steering:

Hydraulic Power-Assisted Rack and Pinion

Electrical:

Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Frame and Body Construction, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim.

HVAC:

Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation, Climate Control Systems.

Safety Systems:

Airbags, Seatbelts, Crumple Zones, ABS, Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP/ESC).

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Component Testing.

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair.

Diagnostics:

PCM/ECM, BCM, ABS Module, SRS Module, Instrument Cluster, HVAC Module Diagnostics.

Assembly Disassembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearances, measurements for all components.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - commonly searchable and printable.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans/originals ensuring clarity of diagrams, text, and schematics.

Binding Type:

N/A for digital, but if printed, typically comb-bound or perfect bound for ease of use.

Paper Type:

N/A for digital, but if printed, usually high-quality, durable paper suitable for shop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3497 cc)

Engine 1 Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine 1 Horsepower:

250 hp @ 6400 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

5.7 Liters (5654 cc)

Engine 2 Configuration:

OHV V8 (HEMI) with MDS

Engine 2 Horsepower:

340 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Compression Ratio 3.5L:

9.6:1

Compression Ratio 5.7L:

9.6:1

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded (for 3.5L), 87 Octane Unleaded Recommended (for 5.7L, premium may enhance performance)

Cooling Type:

Liquid-Cooled

Oil Capacity 3.5L:

5 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change

Oil Capacity 5.7L:

7 Quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 (API Certified)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Automatic (Mercedes-Benz NAG1 / W5A580)

Transmission Type Optional:

None for the LX trim in 2005.

Transmission Features:

Electronic Control, Torque Converter Lock-up, Driver-selectable Manual Mode (AutoStick).

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar Material)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 Quarts (8.0 Liters) for service fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

199.2 inches (5059 mm)

Width:

74.1 inches (1882 mm)

Height:

58.4 inches (1483 mm)

Wheelbase:

120.0 inches (3048 mm)

Front Track:

62.4 inches (1585 mm)

Rear Track:

62.5 inches (1588 mm)

Curb Weight 3.5L:

Approx. 3,807 lbs (1727 kg)

Curb Weight 5.7L:

Approx. 4,033 lbs (1829 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) for V6, 5,100 lbs (2313 kg) for V8

Trunk Volume:

16.0 cubic feet (0.45 cubic meters)

Standard Tire Size:

P215/65R17 (3.5L), P225/60R18 (5.7L)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 115mm

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch (3.5L), 18-inch (5.7L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Crash Front Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Crash Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Crash Rear Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Crash Rear Passenger:

4 Stars

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good

ABS:

Standard

Traction Control TCS:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control Esc:

Standard (ESP)

Brake Assist Ba:

Standard

Airbags Front Impact:

Standard: Driver and Front Passenger Airbags

Airbags Side Impact:

Optional/Standard depending on package: Front and Rear Side Curtain Airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base AM/FM/CD player. Optional upgrades included Boston Acoustics premium audio, Sirius Satellite Radio, and an in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Program (ESP).

Connectivity Options:

No advanced Bluetooth or USB connectivity typically offered on this base LX trim; analog inputs may be present on premium audio systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving may require more frequent changes.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.5L:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using recommended iridium plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement 5.7L:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using recommended iridium plugs.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years for severe use. Check manual for normal interval. Fluid should be checked regularly.

Coolant Flush:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years with HOAT coolant.

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Additive Technology), typically a dark orange color.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (Type MS-5901) or equivalent.

Common Issues 3.5L:

Intake manifold runner control (IMRC) issues, occasional carbon build-up, potential for valve cover gasket leaks.

Common Issues 5.7L:

Lifter tick (especially related to MDS), exhaust manifold leaks, potential for camshaft wear if oil changes are neglected, torque converter shudder.

Common Issues Transmission:

Rough shifting, slipping (often related to valve body or solenoids in the NAG1), potential for leaks at cooler lines.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Front suspension clunks or rattles (ball joints, control arm bushings), power steering pump whine.

Common Issues Electrical:

Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor issues, CAN bus communication faults, intermittent electrical gremlins often traced to faulty grounds or sensors.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles and muscle cars, with the Charger being a significant icon in its past.

Charger Heritage:

The 2005 model marked the rebirth of the Charger nameplate after a hiatus, moving from a two-door muscle car to a four-door performance sedan, a significant shift in its identity.

Platform Sharing:

The LX platform was a departure for Dodge, bringing rear-wheel-drive architecture back to its sedans and allowing for V8 Hemi integration.

Production Location:

Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

Production Years:

2005-2010 (for the first generation LX Charger).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Achieved top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its debut year, highlighting its robust safety cage and airbag systems.

Consumer Reviews Reputation:

Generally well-received for its styling, power (especially with the Hemi), and comfortable ride, though early models had some build quality critiques and transmission shift quality complaints.