Positioning:
The Dodge Charger of this era was positioned as a full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedan offering a blend of performance, comfort, and iconic American styling, competing with domestic and import rivals.
Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, Cadillac DTS, Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon, Buick Lucerne.
Attractiveness:
Muscular styling, powerful V8 engine options (Hemi), rear-wheel-drive dynamics, spacious interior, and a range of performance trims.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Driveline, Exhaust
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio Systems, Security Systems
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Upholstery, HVAC Ducting
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Scan Tool Procedures
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Component Reassembly
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring Diagrams, Connector Pinouts, Circuit Testing
Specification Data:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Voltages
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine 1:
3.5L V6 'High Output'
Engine 1 Displacement:
3.5 Liters
Engine 1 Horsepower:
250 hp @ 6400 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
5.7 Liters
Engine 2 Horsepower:
340 hp @ 5000 rpm (early models), 365 hp @ 5200 rpm (later models)
Engine 2 Torque:
390 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (early models), 395 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (later models)
Engine 3:
6.1L V8 HEMI SRT
Engine 3 Displacement:
6.1 Liters
Engine 3 Horsepower:
425 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6/5.7L, 91+ octane for 6.1L SRT)
Engine Control Module:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Variable Valve Timing:
Yes (3.5L V6)
Cylinder Deactivation:
Yes (5.7L HEMI 'Multi-Displacement System' - MDS)
Transmission Type V6:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)
Transmission Type 5.7L:
5-Speed Automatic (W5A580)
Transmission Type Srt8:
5-Speed Manual (Tremec TR-6060) or 5-Speed Automatic (W5A580)
Transmission Cooling:
Integrated transmission fluid cooler
Transmission Fluid Type 4Spd:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Type 5Spd:
Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent (check specific model year and fill)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (2005-2010 models, generally)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2005-2010 models, generally)
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (for many models in this range)
Traction Control:
Standard (on most models, may vary)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (on later models or as optional on earlier ones)
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Front Airbags
Airbags Side:
Available Side Curtain Airbags (front and rear), available front side airbags
Audio System Options:
Various Boston Acoustics or Alpine premium audio system options, Uconnect infotainment system (later models).
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available on later models as part of option packages.
Bluetooth:
Available with Uconnect system.
Remote Start:
Optional feature.
Oil Change Interval Severe:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles
Oil Change Interval Normal:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (with synthetic oil and oil filter change)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (typically platinum or iridium)
Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (check specific type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-5 years (OAT coolant)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20 (API SN or newer) for 3.5L and 5.7L; SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic for 6.1L SRT (verify specific requirements)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L:
5.0 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:
7.0 Quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 6.1L:
7.0 Quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant (typically Mopar P/N 68048553AA or equivalent, often pink/orange in color)
Common Issue 1:
Front suspension clunking/rattling (often due to worn ball joints, control arm bushings, or sway bar links).
Common Issue 2:
Power steering pump whine or failure (check fluid level and condition).
Common Issue 3:
Transmission issues (e.g., harsh shifting, slipping, particularly with the 42RLE, may require solenoid or valve body service).
Common Issue 4:
Water pump leaks (especially on the 5.7L Hemi).
Common Issue 5:
Active Headrest System malfunctions (requiring specialized diagnostics).
Brand Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing performance-oriented American vehicles, often associated with muscle cars and powerful engines.
Generation:
This period (2005-2010) represents the first generation of the modern Dodge Charger, reviving the iconic nameplate for a full-size sedan.
Updates:
Facelift in 2007 introduced revised styling, interior enhancements, and updated powertrains (e.g., increased horsepower for the 5.7L Hemi).
Manufacturing Plant:
Brampton Assembly, Ontario, Canada
Production Volume:
Significant volumes, reflecting its popularity as a flagship sedan.
