🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Durango

Year:

2008

Product Name:

2008 Dodge Durango Owners Manual

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Dodge Durango was positioned as a mid-size SUV, offering a blend of passenger comfort, cargo versatility, and available V8 power, often competing with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and Toyota 4Runner.

Competitive Analysis:

The Durango aimed to differentiate itself with its distinctive styling, strong V8 engine options, and a more rugged, truck-based platform (shared with the Dakota pickup) compared to some more car-based crossover competitors.

Key Features:

Available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Offered seating for up to seven passengers in three rows. Notable for its optional HEMI V8 engine.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive owner information for the 2008 Dodge Durango.

Page Count:

Approximately 300-350 pages (typical for this model year).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Vehicle operation, instrument panel, gauges, warning lights, controls, climate control, audio systems, seating, lighting, power accessories, safety features, driving and operating, maintenance, roadside emergencies, towing, specifications.

Procedures Included:

Starting and operating the vehicle, adjusting seats and mirrors, using climate control, operating the audio system, understanding dashboard indicators, refueling, checking fluid levels, basic maintenance checks, tire pressure checks, changing a flat tire, jump starting a dead battery, using hazard lights, basic troubleshooting of common indicators.

Technical Depth:

Focuses on owner-level operation, maintenance, and safety. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

Standard OEM quality, durable paper stock with clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Staple-bound or perfect bound booklet.

Paper Type:

Glossy or semi-gloss paper for durability and image clarity.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement Hp Torque:

3.7L Magnum V6: 210 hp @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm; 4.7L Magnum V8: 235 hp @ 4500 rpm, 305 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm; 5.7L HEMI V8: 345 hp @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (all engines). 5.7L HEMI V8 is also compatible with E85 (Flex Fuel).

Fuel Induction:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Engine Codes:

3.7L V6 (J Type), 4.7L V8 (P Type), 5.7L V8 HEMI (D Type).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed automatic transmission (42RLE) for the 3.7L V6 engine.

Transmission Type Optional:

5-speed automatic transmission (W5A580) for 4.7L and 5.7L V8 engines.

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, automatic overdrive. Select models may feature a brake/transmission shift interlock.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

119.8 inches

Length:

200.8 inches

Width:

79.1 inches

Height:

73.2 inches

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

19.9 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

49.8 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

84.5 cubic feet

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 4,500 - 5,200 lbs depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 6,100 - 6,700 lbs depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 7,400 lbs (with 5.7L HEMI V8 and appropriate towing package).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

4 Stars (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 Stars (for 2008 model year testing where applicable).

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, three-row side-curtain airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Available Boston Acoustics premium audio system, Uconnect Hands-Free Communication (Bluetooth), SIRIUS Satellite Radio, in-dash CD/DVD changer, and rear-seat entertainment system.

Driver Assistance Features:

ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional), ParkSense Rear Park Assist System (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.

Comfort Features:

Power-adjustable pedals, heated and ventilated front seats (optional), remote keyless entry, universal home remote.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on oil quality and usage).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or as recommended by the manual.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed, depending on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

3.7L V6: 100,000 miles (Platinum); 4.7L V8: 100,000 miles (Platinum); 5.7L HEMI V8: 100,000 miles (Multi-Displacement System).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 (API Certified) for 3.7L and 4.7L engines; SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Certified) for 5.7L HEMI (check manual for exact recommendation).

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) antifreeze/coolant, meeting MS-9769.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) for 4-speed and 5-speed automatics.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.7L V6: 5.0 qts (with filter); 4.7L V8: 6.0 qts (with filter); 5.7L V8: 7.0 qts (with filter).

Common Issues:

Some reported issues include occasional electronic throttle control problems, potential for front suspension wear (ball joints, control arms), and water pump leaks on higher mileage V8 models. HVAC blend door actuator failure is also a noted concern.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history dating back to 1914, known for its performance-oriented vehicles, trucks, and SUVs. The brand traditionally offered robust and powerful vehicles.

Durango Generation 2Nd:

The 2008 Durango is part of the second generation (2004-2009), which saw a significant redesign from the first generation. It moved to a unibody platform shared with the Dodge Ram pickup truck, offering improved ride comfort and handling compared to its predecessor's body-on-frame construction.

Production Plant:

Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA.

Production Years 2Nd Gen:

2004-2009

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Competent Performer:

While specific major awards for the 2008 model year are less prominent, the Durango was generally recognized as a competent and capable SUV within its segment, particularly for its towing ability and powerful V8 options.

Consumer Reports Rating:

Ratings varied by year and configuration, with some praise for performance and utility but some critiques regarding fuel economy and reliability in certain areas. Consult specific vehicle year reviews for detailed ratings.

Emissions Certification:

Meets U.S. Federal EPA emissions standards for passenger vehicles of its model year.