🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Nitro

Year Range:

2007-2012

Product Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Platform Code:

Chrysler KA (shared with Mitsubishi Raider)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, auto repair shops, owners seeking to understand vehicle maintenance and repair.

Key Competitors:

Jeep Liberty, Ford Bronco Sport, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra.

Vehicle Strengths:

Rugged styling, available V8 (4.0L), good towing capacity for its class, comfortable ride (especially with independent rear suspension on later models).

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides detailed, step-by-step instructions and technical data essential for maintaining and repairing the Dodge Nitro, saving significant costs compared to professional service.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Variants:

2.8L CRD Diesel, 3.7L V6 Magnum, 4.0L V6 SOHC

Transmission Variants:

4-speed automatic (42RLE), 5-speed automatic (W5A580)

Drivetrain Variants:

RWD, AWD

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical (all variants), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Engine Control Systems (PCM/ECM), Automatic Transmissions (42RLE, W5A580), Transfer Case, Drivelines, Axles.

Chassis:

Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front and Rear, ABS, ESC), Wheels and Tires.

Body And Electrical:

Body Structure, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Power Accessories, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Audio System, Navigation System (if equipped), Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Airbag System (SRS), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), brake pad replacement, belt replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Component testing, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, electrical circuit diagnostics, wiring diagrams.

Repair Overhaul:

Engine component overhaul (pistons, rings, valves), transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings), brake caliper and rotor replacement, steering rack replacement, starter motor and alternator replacement, AC system service.

Special Procedures:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, alignment procedures, diagnostic tool usage, relearn procedures for various modules, HVAC refrigerant handling, bleeding brake systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring schematics, and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High resolution, searchable text, printable pages.

Printability:

Designed for easy printing of individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

3.7L V6:

Displacement: 3.7L (226 cu in); Configuration: V6; Bore x Stroke: 3.70 in x 3.37 in (94 mm x 85.8 mm); Compression Ratio: 9.6:1; Horsepower: 210 hp @ 5200 rpm; Torque: 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm; Valvetrain: SOHC 12-valve.

4.0L V6:

Displacement: 4.0L (243 cu in); Configuration: V6; Bore x Stroke: 3.78 in x 3.53 in (96 mm x 89.6 mm); Compression Ratio: 9.6:1; Horsepower: 260 hp @ 6000 rpm; Torque: 265 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm; Valvetrain: SOHC 24-valve (3 valves per cylinder).

2.8L Crd:

Displacement: 2.8L (170 cu in); Configuration: Inline-4 Turbo Diesel; Horsepower: 175 hp @ 3800 rpm; Torque: 310 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm; Valvetrain: DOHC 16-valve.

0-60 Mph Estimates:

Approx. 8.0-9.5 seconds depending on engine and drivetrain.

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for V6 gasoline engines; Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for 2.8L CRD diesel.

Required Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended for 3.7L, 89 octane recommended for 4.0L), Diesel fuel for CRD.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (42RLE) with 3.7L V6 and 2.8L CRD Diesel; 5-speed automatic (W5A580) with 4.0L V6.

Transmission Options:

N/A (automatic transmissions were standard across all powertrains).

Electronic Control:

Both transmissions are electronically controlled for optimized shift points and fuel economy.

Transmission Fluid:

Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent for 42RLE; Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent for W5A580.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 179.0 inches (4547 mm)

Width:

Approximately 73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Height:

Approximately 69.0 inches (1753 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 109.5 inches (2781 mm)

Seating Capacity:

5 passengers

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approximately 19.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume With 2Nd Row Folded:

Approximately 62.7 cu ft

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) with optional towing package; 2,000 lbs (907 kg) without.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

4-star

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

4-star

NHTSA Side Driver Impact:

5-star

NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:

5-star

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Good (for earlier models)

Stability Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control (TCS).

Brake Assist:

Standard Brake Assist.

Airbags:

Standard front and side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Optional navigation system and premium Boston Acoustics audio.

Parking Assist:

Available rear park assist sensors.

Bluetooth:

Available Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, whichever comes first.

Coolant Change:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, whichever comes first (using Mopar OAT coolant).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-20 (for 3.7L and 4.0L V6); SAE 5W-40 (for 2.8L CRD).

Coolant Spec:

Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3.

Common Complaints:

Rear axle seal leaks, front suspension component wear (ball joints, control arms), water pump leaks, transmission solenoid issues (42RLE), interior rattles and squeaks.

Diesel Specific Issues:

Glow plug issues, particulate filter regeneration problems (if equipped), EGR valve issues.

Spark Plugs 3.7L:

Champion RE10MCC4 or equivalent.

Spark Plugs 4.0L:

Champion C13PMC or equivalent (Double Platinum).

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand:

Dodge has a long history of producing rugged, performance-oriented vehicles, often with a focus on truck-based platforms.

Nitro Launch:

The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year as a compact SUV, sharing its platform with the Mitsubishi Raider (which itself was based on the Dodge Dakota platform).

Model Updates:

Minor updates included the introduction of the more powerful 4.0L V6 engine in 2008 and powertrain refinements. The model was discontinued after the 2012 model year.

Manufacturing Plant:

Toluca Assembly Plant, Mexico.

Production Years:

2007-2012.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Received good ratings in IIHS crash tests for its time, reflecting solid structural integrity. NHTSA ratings consistently good for side impacts.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

EPA estimated MPG typically ranged from 14-17 city and 19-23 highway, depending on engine and drivetrain. (Considered average to below average for the segment).

Manual Certification:

This manual is based on factory service information and industry best practices.