Market Position:
The Dodge Nitro is a compact/mid-size SUV known for its rugged styling and optional V8 engine, positioning it as a more aggressive and performance-oriented alternative in its segment.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Jeep Liberty (sharing a platform), Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, and Honda CR-V, often distinguishing itself with bolder styling and available V8 power.
Key Features:
Distinctive exterior styling, spacious interior, available HEMI V8 engine, available all-wheel drive, practical cargo space.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Bodywork, HVAC, Interior, Exterior, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Wiring Diagrams, Troubleshooting
Page Count:
Extensive (Exact number not provided, but described as 'very detailed' and covering 'everything you will ever need')
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac OS.
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR (for archive extraction if applicable).
Systems Covered:
Powertrain (engine, transmission, transfer case, axles), Chassis (suspension, steering, brakes), Electrical (wiring, ECUs, lighting, accessories), HVAC, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Body & Frame, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (airbags, seatbelts)
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Component Repair, Component Replacement, Rebuilding Procedures, Overhauling, Wiring Harness Repair, Suspension Alignment, Brake System Service, Engine Tune-Up, HVAC System Servicing
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, comprehensive wiring diagrams covering all electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, body control modules, entertainment, and safety systems.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Specific troubleshooting charts and procedures based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and electrical system diagnostics.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive - designed for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, covering diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component-level repair, and complete system overhauls.
Primary Engine Options:
3.7L V6 (SOHC, 12-valve), 4.0L V6 (SOHC, 24-valve), 5.7L V8 HEMI (OHV, 16-valve)
Horsepower Torque 3.7L V6:
Approx. 210 hp @ 5200 rpm / 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)
Horsepower Torque 4.0L V6:
Approx. 260 hp @ 6000 rpm / 285 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Torque 5.7L Hemi V8:
Approx. 302 hp @ 5100 rpm / 329 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Management System:
Chrysler's SBEC/NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar, supporting OBD-II diagnostics.
Engine Codes:
3.7L V6: EKG; 4.0L V6: KPT; 5.7L V8 HEMI: ESG (Refer to manual for definitive VIN decoding and engine codes).
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric cooling fan.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (42RLE) for 3.7L V6; 5-speed automatic transmission for 4.0L V6 and 5.7L V8.
Optional Transmission:
Manual transmission was not commonly offered or available on US models for this year.
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., ATF+4 for 42RLE, or equivalent for 5-speed automatic).
Length:
Approx. 179.0 inches (4547 mm)
Width:
Approx. 73.0 inches (1854 mm)
Height:
Approx. 68.0 inches (1727 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 109.8 inches (2789 mm)
Curb Weight 3.7L V6 Rwd:
Approx. 4,117 lbs (1867 kg)
Curb Weight 4.0L V6 AWD:
Approx. 4,410 lbs (2000 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) (properly equipped)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 101.9 cubic feet (2886 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 31.2 cubic feet (884 liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 62.4 cubic feet (1767 liters)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3/5 stars (for most configurations)
Active Safety Features:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), Side curtain airbags (optional/standard on some trims), Front seat-mounted side airbags (optional/standard on some trims), Seatbelt pretensioners.
Infotainment System:
Optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system, Uconnect infotainment system with voice command and Bluetooth connectivity (available on select trims).
Navigation System:
Optional Uconnect GPS navigation system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking assist (optional), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Connectivity:
Auxiliary audio input jack, optional USB port, optional Bluetooth for hands-free calling.
Lighting Options:
Halogen headlights, available fog lights, available premium interior lighting.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically 3,000-6,000 miles (5,000-10,000 km) or based on oil quality and driving conditions (e.g., oil life monitoring system).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on transmission type and usage.
Coolant Change Interval:
Refer to manual; often around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for modern long-life coolants.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual; typically 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-20 or 5W-30) and API service classification (e.g., API SN/SP or equivalent).
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Known Issues:
Reported issues can include premature wear on suspension components (ball joints, tie rods), catalytic converter failure, HVAC blower motor issues, and occasional transmission problems (particularly on earlier models or those heavily used).
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Fram PH3792, Wix 57356, Mopar 04781366AA (Examples, always verify for specific engine).
Brand Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now part of Stellantis), has a long history of producing robust and often performance-oriented vehicles, including trucks and SUVs.
Model Evolution:
The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year as Dodge's entry into the mid-size SUV segment, sharing its platform (Chrysler KA) with the Jeep Liberty. The 2009 model year saw minor updates and continued availability of the powerful HEMI V8 option.
Production Location:
Toluca Car Assembly, Mexico
