Segment:
Mid-size station wagon (or 'sportwagon') in the American market.
Positioning:
Offered a unique blend of American muscle car styling and practicality, targeting buyers seeking an alternative to traditional sedans and SUVs.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Outback, Volvo V70, Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, Chevrolet Impala SS (for performance variants).
Styling:
Distinctive, aggressive styling with a long hood and short deck proportions, reminiscent of Dodge's muscle car heritage.
Performance Options:
Available with powerful V8 HEMI engines in higher trims, offering significant performance for its segment.
Interior Space:
Spacious interior with a large cargo area, providing SUV-like utility in a car-like package.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, intake system, exhaust system.
Transmission Mechanical:
Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, gear sets, clutch packs, valve body, planetary gears.
Transmission Electronic:
Transmission control module (TCM), sensors, solenoids, shift logic, diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, constant velocity (CV) joints, differential, axle shafts, all-wheel drive (AWD) system (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front suspension (independent, multilink), rear suspension (independent, multilink), springs, shock absorbers/struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bars.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack/gearbox, steering column, tie rods, power steering pump/motor.
Brakes:
Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads), hydraulic lines, parking brake, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, multiplexing.
Body Control Modules:
Body Control Module (BCM), interior and exterior lighting, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, interior trim.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, refrigerant system, blower motor, evaporator, heater core, A/C compressor, climate control module.
Infotainment:
Audio system, navigation system (if equipped), display units, connectivity modules.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, occupant classification system, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, component testing.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, internal component repair, assembly and disassembly procedures, torque specifications for all fasteners.
Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, differential rebuild, suspension component overhaul.
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures.
Calibration:
Sensor calibration (e.g., steering angle sensor), module initialization.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete vehicle rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on required diagnostic tools, including proprietary Chrysler/Dodge equipment (e.g., StarScan/wiTECH).
Specifications:
Detailed specifications for all components, including tolerances, clearances, pressures, voltages, and resistances.
Digital Format Characteristics:
Searchable text, hyperlinked table of contents, high-resolution diagrams and illustrations (if PDF).
Print Quality Description:
High-quality printing with clear text and sharp, detailed illustrations (for physical copies).
Binding Type Description:
Durable binding, such as spiral-bound or case-bound, suitable for shop use (for physical copies).
Paper Type Description:
Heavy-duty, gloss or semi-gloss paper to withstand grease and frequent handling (for physical copies).
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Typically 5-star for driver and passenger (check specific test data for exact year/configuration).
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Often awarded 'Good' ratings in front, side, and rear impacts (check specific IIHS reports).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS).
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Brake Assist.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and available full-length side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear three-point seat belts, front seat pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Consult manual for severe conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine. Typically 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for premium spark plugs. Consult manual for specific engine type (e.g., 5.7L HEMI may have different requirements).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 (check manual for specific engine oil viscosity and specification).
Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent for automatic transmissions. Check manual for precise type and capacity.
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 5-Year/100,000-Mile Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent. Typically a pink/orange color.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific DOT requirement).
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, wheel bearings, front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings), exhaust system components (mufflers, catalytic converters).
Powertrain Issues:
Early models with 5.7L HEMI may have had potential lifter issues. Some transmission shift quality concerns reported, often related to solenoid pack or fluid/filter changes.
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional reports of minor electrical issues, often related to Body Control Module (BCM) or door lock actuators.