Vehicle Segment:
Rear-wheel drive, muscle car/pony car
Key Competitors:
Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro
Design Philosophy:
Retro-inspired styling harkening back to the original Challenger, emphasizing performance and bold aesthetics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides enthusiasts and professional technicians with the essential information to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Dodge Challenger across its initial model years and engine configurations.
Powertrain:
Engine (3.5L, 5.7L, 6.1L), Automatic Transmissions (42RLE, NAG1), Manual Transmission (TR6060), Driveline (Propeller Shaft, Rear Axles: 198MM, 215RII, G648), Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front, Rear), Steering, Brakes (Base, ABS), Wheels & Tires, Frame & Bumpers
Electrical And Electronics:
Battery System, Charging System, Ignition Control, Lighting (Exterior), Audio & Video, Communication Systems, Navigation/Telecommunication, Instrument Cluster, Message Center, Speed Control, Restraints (Airbags), Security Systems (Vehicle Theft), Power Distribution, Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), Wireless Ignition Module (WIN), Cabin Compartment Node (CCN), Driver Door Module (DDM), Passenger Door Module (PDM), Electronic Control Modules (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Tire Pressure Module (TPM)
Body And Interior:
Body (Interior & Exterior), Body Panels, Doors, Glass (Heated), Mirrors (Heated), Seats (Power, Heated), HVAC (Heating & Air Conditioning), Cabin Air Filter, Wipers & Washers, Horn System, Overhead Console
Diagnostics:
DTC-Based Diagnostics, Non-DTC-Based Diagnostics, Circuit Testing Procedures, Electrical Diagnostics, Component Location, Electrical Diagnostics for specific modules (CCN, DDM, EOM, HFM, HSM, PEM, TIPM, TCM, WIN)
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine Overhaul Procedures, Transmission Repair, Brake Service, Suspension Repair, Steering System Repair, Body Panel Repair, Interior Component Repair, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement, HVAC System Repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Maintenance Reminder Light Reset Procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams are a core component of the manual, crucial for diagnosing electrical issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive workshop-level detail, including step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring diagrams, and illustrations.
Diagnostics Tools:
While not including tool specifications, the manual implicitly assumes the use of standard automotive diagnostic tools, including scan tools capable of reading OBD-II codes.
Engine 3.5L:
3.5L SOHC V6, approximately 250 hp @ 6000 rpm, 250 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm. Fuel delivery: Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI).
Engine 5.7L:
5.7L HEMI OHV V8, approximately 370-376 hp @ 5600 rpm, 400-410 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm. Features Multi-Displacement System (MDS). Fuel delivery: Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI).
Engine 6.1L:
6.1L HEMI OHV V8 (SRT8), approximately 425 hp @ 6000 rpm, 420 lb-ft torque @ 4800 rpm. Enhanced performance components. Fuel delivery: Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI).
Firing Order:
V6: 1-6-4-3-2-5; V8 HEMI: 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug
Transmission Options:
Optional manual (TR6060) and automatic (42RLE, NAG1) transmissions depending on engine and trim.
Automatic 42Rle:
4-speed automatic transmission, typically paired with the 3.5L V6 engine.
Automatic Nag1:
5-speed automatic transmission (Mercedes-Benz sourced), typically paired with the 5.7L HEMI V8.
Manual Tr6060:
6-speed manual transmission, often found with the 5.7L HEMI V8 and standard on SRT8 models.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated clutch system for manual transmissions.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star rating (driver and passenger) for 2008-2010 models.
IIHS Side Impact:
Good rating (Top Safety Pick) for 2008-2010 models.
Braking System:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS).
Traction Control:
All-speed traction control (TCS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) standard on most trims.
Airbags:
Advanced multi-stage front airbags, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side-curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, advanced front seat belt system.
Audio System:
Available Boston Acoustics premium audio, Uconnect infotainment system with touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation (optional).
Instrument Cluster:
Features analog gauges with digital information display, including odometer, trip computer, and system warnings.
Cruise Control:
Standard speed control functionality, with manual procedures for adjustment and troubleshooting.
Hands Free Module:
Uconnect hands-free communication system available on select trims, allowing for voice-activated calling.
Heated Features:
Optional heated seats and heated glass/mirrors for enhanced comfort and visibility in cold weather.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific engine oil type and capacity.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) to ensure even wear.
Spark Plugs:
Intervals vary by engine; refer to manual. Typically 60,000-100,000 miles for modern spark plugs.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 5W-20 for 3.5L/5.7L HEMI, SAE 0W-40 for 6.1L HEMI SRT8) and API certification. Capacity varies by engine.
Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 (for 42RLE), Mopar NAG1 Fluid (for NAG1), Mopar Manual Transmission Fluid (for TR6060). Capacities vary.
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT (Hybrid OAT) type, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar P/N 05103530AA or equivalent.
Common Complaints:
Potential for minor electrical gremlins, suspension noise (especially in early models), and HVAC blend door actuator failures. SRT8 models might require more frequent brake component checks due to performance driving.
Maintenance Reminder Light:
Manual provides specific procedures for resetting the maintenance reminder light after service.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Challenger nameplate being iconic in the muscle car era of the 1970s.
Lc Generation Introduction:
The third generation Challenger (LC) was introduced for the 2008 model year, reviving the classic nameplate with a retro-modern design inspired by the 1970 model.
Powertrain Development:
Initial models featured the 3.5L V6, with the popular 5.7L HEMI V8 arriving shortly after. The high-performance 6.1L HEMI V8 for the SRT8 model debuted in 2008, establishing the Challenger's performance credentials.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
