Market Segment:
Mid-size/Full-size Station Wagon, Performance Wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops seeking detailed technical information for the Dodge Magnum.
Key Competitors 2005-2006:
Subaru Outback, Audi A6 Allroad, Volvo V70, Chevrolet Impala (less direct comparison).
Differentiating Features:
Rear-wheel-drive platform offering sporty handling, powerful HEMI V8 option (R/T and SRT8 trims), distinctive styling, spacious interior, cargo utility.
Engine Variants Covered:
3.5L V6 (EGG), 5.7L V8 HEMI (EZM)
Transmission Variants Covered:
4-speed automatic (42RLE), 5-speed automatic (W5A580)
Trim Levels Covered:
SE, SXT, R/T, SRT8
Drivetrain Covered:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for certain models/engines
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 2000+ pages (indicative of comprehensive workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (3.5L V6, 5.7L HEMI), fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine control systems (ECU/PCM), cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (42RLE, W5A580), driveline, differentials, driveshafts.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (ABS, rear disc brakes), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, power windows, door locks, mirrors, instrument cluster, audio systems, HVAC controls, starter, charging system, battery, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM).
Body:
Body and frame construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, sunroof.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, water pump, starter), transmission service and repair, suspension component replacement (e.g., control arms, ball joints, struts), brake caliper and line replacement, power steering system service, HVAC system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, wiring harness testing, component testing procedures.
Special Tools And Techniques:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific repairs, torque specifications for critical fasteners, alignment procedures.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and complete component overhauls. Includes detailed exploded views, schematics, and step-by-step repair instructions.
Engine Displacement Base:
3.5 Liters (215 cu in)
Engine Configuration Base:
SOHC V6
Horsepower Base:
250 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque Base:
250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Engine Code Performance:
EZM (HEMI)
Engine Displacement Performance:
5.7 Liters (345 cu in)
Engine Configuration Performance:
OHV V8 with Multi-Displacement System (MDS)
Horsepower Performance:
340 hp @ 5000 rpm (R/T), 425 hp @ 6000 rpm (SRT8)
Torque Performance:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (R/T), 420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (SRT8)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 3.5L, 91 octane recommended for 5.7L HEMI, higher for SRT8)
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (42RLE)
Standard Transmission Drivetrain:
RWD
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed automatic (W5A580)
Optional Transmission Drivetrain:
RWD and AWD (for 5.7L R/T and SRT8 models)
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, performance shift modes (e.g., 'Autostick' manual shifting capability on W5A580), torque converter lock-up.
Length:
Approx. 199.1 inches (5057 mm)
Width:
Approx. 73.0 inches (1854 mm)
Height:
Approx. 58.9 inches (1496 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.0 inches (2946 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 105.0 cu ft (2973 L)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 23.8 cu ft (674 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 63.1 cu ft (1787 L)
Curb Weight Base:
Approx. 3700 lbs (1678 kg)
Curb Weight Performance:
Approx. 4000-4300 lbs (1814-1950 kg) depending on trim/drivetrain
Towing Capacity:
Generally not rated for towing, but check specific configurations.
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
5 Stars (2005)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
5 Stars (2005)
NHTSA Side Driver Front Seat:
5 Stars (2005)
NHTSA Side Passenger Front Seat:
5 Stars (2005)
NHTSA Side Driver Rear Seat:
5 Stars (2005)
NHTSA Side Passenger Rear Seat:
5 Stars (2005)
IIHS Front Overlap Crash Test:
Good (2005)
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good (2005)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional/Standard on some trims
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional/Standard on some trims (ESP)
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Infotainment Systems:
Optional Boston Acoustics or Infinity premium audio systems, Uconnect hands-free communication system (introduced later in the model run or as an option).
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkSense parking assist (optional), ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control (optional).
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary input for audio (may require aftermarket modification for newer devices), optional Bluetooth integration via Uconnect.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.5L V6: Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium plugs. 5.7L HEMI: Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) compatible plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) for automatic transmissions, or as per severe service schedule.
Engine Oil Specification 3.5L:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or equivalent, Chrysler MS-6395
Engine Oil Specification 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent, Chrysler MS-6395 (essential for MDS operation)
Transmission Fluid 42Rle:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid W5A580:
MB-Approval 236.10 or equivalent ATF (consult manual for exact specification and quantity).
Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically HOAT type or equivalent (e.g., Pentofrost P-HO).
Common Issue Electrical Window Motors:
Early models experienced failure of power window regulators and motors.
Common Issue Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can lead to clunking noises and steering issues.
Common Issue Hemi Mds:
Potential issues with the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters and solenoids, though generally robust with proper maintenance.
Common Issue Transmission 42Rle:
The 42RLE transmission can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting or torque converter shudder if not properly maintained.
Common Issue Interior Rattles:
Various interior trim pieces can develop rattles over time due to road vibrations.
Dodge Heritage Connection:
Built upon the legacy of Dodge's performance and muscle car heritage, adapting it to a modern wagon form factor.
Model Introduction Year:
2003 (as a concept), 2004 (as a production model for 2004 MY in some markets, 2005 MY widely introduced)
Platform Sharing:
Shared the Chrysler LX platform with the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger.
Design Philosophy:
Revival of the wagon body style with an emphasis on American performance and bold styling.
Production Years:
2004-2008
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Design Award:
Often cited for its distinctive and bold styling, representing a departure from conventional wagon designs.
Performance Recognition:
The SRT8 variant received acclaim for its powerful performance and handling capabilities within the wagon segment.
Initial Market Reception:
Praised for its unique styling and performance options, particularly the HEMI V8 variants.