🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Nitro

Years Covered:

2007, 2008, 2009

Platform:

Chrysler KA (with Mercedes-Benz W164/X164 ML/GL shared platform)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV / Crossover

Competitors 2007 2009:

Jeep Liberty, Ford Edge, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Murano, Hyundai Santa Fe.

Design Philosophy:

Rugged styling, available powerful V8 engine, practical SUV layout, optional AWD.

Unique Selling Points:

The availability of the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine in its class provided segment-leading power and towing capability.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete workshop manual for all systems and components of the Dodge Nitro for the specified model years.

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Master Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission controls, powertrain control modules (PCM).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (W5A580), transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differentials (rear, optional limited-slip).

Chassis Suspension:

Front suspension (independent SLA), rear suspension (five-link solid axle), steering system (power rack and pinion), braking system (front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS, ESC), wheels and tires.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), comfort controls, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), audio system, navigation system (if equipped), vehicle security system.

Body Interior:

Body construction, exterior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seating systems, HVAC system, airbags, seat belts.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine repair (cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, etc.), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair/replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Installation Adjustment:

Component installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), alignment specifications, brake bleeding, airbag system service procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Searchable PDF text for quick information retrieval.

Clarity:

High-resolution scans for clear text and diagrams, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Description:

3.7L V6 (PowerTech)

Engine 1 Displacement:

3701 cc (225.9 cu in)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

94.0 mm x 90.9 mm (3.70 in x 3.58 in)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Engine 1 Horsepower 2007 2008:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque 2007 2008:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 1 Horsepower 2009:

215 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque 2009:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Description:

4.0L V6 (SOHC)

Engine 2 Displacement:

3952 cc (241.1 cu in)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 90.9 mm (3.78 in x 3.58 in)

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

255 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

275 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 3 Description:

5.7L V8 HEMI (VVT)

Engine 3 Displacement:

5654 cc (345.1 cu in)

Engine 3 Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 90.9 mm (3.92 in x 3.58 in)

Engine 3 Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Engine 3 Horsepower:

360 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

390 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane for HEMI recommended for optimal performance)

Emission Controls:

California/Federal emissions compliant models available, OBD-II.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic (W5A580)

Standard Transmission For Engines:

3.7L V6, 4.0L V6

Optional Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic (W5A580) with manual shift mode (AutoStick)

Optional Transmission For Engines:

5.7L HEMI V8

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD), All-wheel drive (AWD) with electronic transfer case.

Transmission Fluid Type 3.7L 4.0L:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Transmission Fluid Type 5.7L Hemi:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

186.1 in (4727 mm)

Width:

73.1 in (1857 mm)

Height:

68.8 in (1748 mm)

Wheelbase:

109.7 in (2786 mm)

Front Track:

62.1 in (1577 mm)

Rear Track:

62.3 in (1582 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.1 in (206 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

67.2 cu ft (1903 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

32.1 cu ft (909 L)

Curb Weight 3.7L Rwd:

4449 lbs (2018 kg)

Curb Weight 5.7L AWD:

4754 lbs (2156 kg)

Towing Capacity 3.7L:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg)

Towing Capacity 4.0L:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg)

Towing Capacity 5.7L Hemi:

Up to 4500 lbs (2041 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact 2007:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact 2007:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Driver Impact 2007:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Passenger Impact 2007:

5 Stars

NHTSA Rollover Resistance 2007:

4 Stars

Standard Active Safety:

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

Optional Active Safety:

Trailer Sway Control (TSC).

Standard Passive Safety:

Front airbags, side curtain airbags (front and second row), front seat-mounted side airbags.

Other Passive Safety:

Pretensioner seat belts, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Available SiriusXM Satellite Radio, premium Boston Acoustics audio system, Uconnect infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity and voice command (optional).

Navigation:

Optional navigation system with touchscreen interface.

Available Features:

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

Uconnect System:

Uconnect Phone (Bluetooth), Uconnect Voice Command offered on select trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles (9,656 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Use synthetic oil for extended intervals as per manufacturer recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,140 km) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently in dusty conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,140 km) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently in dusty or polluted environments.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L V6:

Every 100,000 miles (160,934 km) using the recommended original equipment spark plugs (e.g., Champion Iridium).

Spark Plug Replacement 5.7L Hemi:

Every 100,000 miles (160,934 km) using the recommended original equipment spark plugs (e.g., Champion Iridium).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,560 km) or 48 months. Check fluid level regularly.

Coolant Flush:

Every 60,000 miles (96,560 km) or 48 months.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20, API SN, ILSAC GF-5 (or equivalent)

Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change

Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change

Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L Hemi:

7.0 US quarts (6.6 L) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically pink or red in color (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Common Complaint 1:

Exhaust manifold leaks/cracks (particularly on V8 models), leading to ticking noises and potential loss of power.

Common Complaint 2:

Power steering pump whine or failure, often exacerbated by turning the steering wheel to full lock.

Common Complaint 3:

Transmission issues, including rough shifting or delayed engagement, particularly with the W5A580 automatic transmission.

Common Complaint 4:

Water pump leaks or bearing failure, especially on the 3.7L and 4.0L V6 engines.

Common Complaint 5:

Front suspension noises (clunks, rattles) due to worn control arm bushings, ball joints, or sway bar links.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and performance-oriented vehicles, often with a focus on American muscle and utility.

Nitro Introduction:

The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year as a compact/mid-size SUV, sharing its platform with the Jeep Liberty but adopting a distinctively bolder, more aggressive styling. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a more muscular and visually striking SUV.

Nitro Updates 2007-2009:

Minor updates included powertrain refinements and feature shuffling across trim levels. The 5.7L HEMI V8 was a significant differentiator introduced shortly after the initial launch.

Assembly Location:

Toluca Assembly Plant, Mexico

Production Years:

2007-2012

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards General:

While the Dodge Nitro did not garner significant mainstream awards, its powerful HEMI engine option was a notable feature for enthusiasts and reviewers.