Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics and professional automotive technicians seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information
Key Competitors:
Jeep Liberty (same platform), Ford Edge, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Murano
Advantage:
Bold styling, strong towing capacity for its class, and available AWD set it apart from mainstream compact crossovers
Unique Selling Points:
Bold styling, available V8 power (though not covered in this V6 manual), strong towing capacity for its class, available AWD
Primary Focus:
Workshop repair and service
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Content Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) equivalent, designed for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Delivery Method:
Instant digital download
Binding:
Digital (no physical binding)
Searchability:
PDF format typically allows for text searching, making it easy to locate specific topics
Engine Systems:
Engine management, cooling, fuel, ignition, lubrication, exhaust
Drivetrain Systems:
NSG-370 manual, 42RLE and NAG1/5G-Tronic automatic transmissions, MP140/MP143 transfer cases, differentials, driveline, clutch
Chassis Systems:
Front and rear suspension, steering, brakes (ABS and base), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Lighting, instrument cluster, ignition control, audio-video, power locks, heated mirrors, wiper/washer, airbag restraints
Body And Interior:
Body construction, HVAC, overhead console
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive diagrams for all major electrical systems
Engine Performance Control:
ECM, sensors, actuators and their function for performance and emissions
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, piping, oxygen sensor diagnostics
Transfer Case:
Detailed servicing for MP140 and MP143 transfer cases
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair/rebuild, brake servicing, suspension replacement, electrical troubleshooting, HVAC repair
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, transmission, coolant, brake, differential), filter and spark plug replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for nearly every component, from minor sensors to major powertrain units
Depth:
Comprehensive; from basic maintenance to complete disassembly and reassembly with diagnostics and wiring diagrams
Diagnostic Tools Reference:
Coverage of procedures requiring scan tools and diagnostic interfaces available at dealerships or specialized shops
Parts Information:
Torque specifications, part identification, and exploded views throughout the procedures
File Format:
PDF (searchable, bookmarked, zoomable)
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android — any device with a PDF reader
Requirements:
A PDF reader application (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, free)
Searchability:
Fully text searchable for fast lookup of any topic
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital pages, printable at full clarity
Binding Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A — digital download, no physical paper
Engine:
3.7L PowerTech SOHC V6 (also covers 4.0L SOHC V6)
Displacement:
3.7L (3701 cc); 4.0L (3952 cc) option
Configuration:
SOHC V6, 12 valves
Bore x Stroke (3.7L):
93.0 mm x 90.9 mm
Compression Ratio (3.7L):
9.0:1
Horsepower (3.7L):
Approximately 210-215 hp @ 5200-5500 rpm
Torque (3.7L):
Approximately 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm
4.0L Power:
Approximately 255-260 hp @ 6000 rpm; 265-270 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm; compression 9.6:1
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane may be beneficial for performance)
3.7L 0-60 Mph:
Approximately 8.5 - 9.5 seconds, depending on configuration and driver
4.0L 0-60 Mph:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 seconds, depending on configuration and driver
Standard Transmission:
6-speed manual NSG-370 on certain trims (especially earlier models); 4-speed automatic 42RLE also common
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic 42RLE across both V6 engines; 5-speed automatic A850/NAG1/5G-Tronic (Mercedes-Benz sourced) typically paired with the 4.0L V6
Transmission Features:
NSG-370 is a robust, durable manual gearbox; 42RLE is a proven but less refined unit; NAG1 offers smoother shifts and potentially better fuel economy
Wheelbase:
Approximately 109.5 inches (2781 mm)
Length:
Approximately 177.0 - 177.6 inches (4496 - 4511 mm)
Width:
Approximately 72.5 inches (1841 mm)
Height:
Approximately 69.1 - 70.2 inches (1755 - 1783 mm)
Curb Weight:
Typically 4,000 to 4,500 lbs (1814 to 2041 kg), varies by engine and drivetrain
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) with optional towing package
Seating Capacity:
5 passengers
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approximately 24.6 cubic feet (697 liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approximately 62.4 cubic feet (1767 liters)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3 out of 5 stars (for 2WD and 4WD models)
IIHS Frontal Offset Impact:
Good (for models tested)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Stability:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), often standard on later models
Traction:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front airbags; side curtain airbags optional or standard depending on trim and year
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner seatbelts
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio systems
Satellite Radio:
Available SiriusXM satellite radio
Navigation:
Optional navigation system
Hands-Free:
Uconnect hands-free communication system (optional on some trims)
Rear Camera:
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional)
Parking Sensors:
ParkSense Rear Park Assist System (optional)
Connectivity Features:
Uconnect system with Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming on equipped models
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Typically around 50,000-100,000 miles (80,000-160,000 km), or per severe duty schedule
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Less frequent, often at 80,000-100,000 miles (128,000-160,000 km)
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 5 years/100,000 miles, then every 3 years/50,000 miles (HOAT coolant)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, Chrysler MS-6395 (API SN or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
42RLE: ATF+4 (MS-9602); NAG1: Mobil ATF 134 or equivalent (MB-Approval 236.14)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear lubricant, API GL-4 or GL-5
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, orange color
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific vehicle recommendation)
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual; typically ATF+4 or specific power steering fluid
Common Complaints:
Interior rattles and squeaks, premature suspension wear (ball joints, control arms), ABS sensor failures, 42RLE shift quality issues, EGR valve issues on some engines
Manufacturer:
Dodge (Chrysler)
Brand Focus:
Heritage of performance and ruggedness, associated with trucks and muscle cars; the Nitro brought a tough image to the SUV segment
Generation Overview:
First-generation model introduced for 2007, based on the Chrysler KA platform shared with the Jeep Liberty KJ; positioned as a stylish, aggressive compact SUV
Production Location:
Assembled in Toluca, Mexico
Production Period:
2007-2011 model years
