Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Brand Perception:
Dodge Nitro positioned as a more rugged, American-styled alternative to other compact SUVs, often emphasizing its bolder design and available V6 powertrains.
Key Competitors:
Jeep Liberty (platform sibling), Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides access to the same detailed repair and maintenance information used by certified technicians, enabling DIY repairs and reducing reliance on expensive dealership services. Offers step-by-step procedures, detailed diagrams, and comprehensive troubleshooting.
Engine:
General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Cooling System, Engine Lubrication System, Fuel and Emissions System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic & Manual - if applicable to these years), Transfer Case (if applicable), Driveshafts, Axles, Differentials.
Chassis:
Steering System, Suspension System (Front & Rear), Brake System (Front & Rear, ABS), Wheels and Tires.
Body And Electrical:
Body Construction, Exterior & Interior Trim, Doors, Glass, Seats, HVAC System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays), Lighting, Instruments and Gauges, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors).
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake, Transmission, Power Steering), Filter Replacements, Inspections.
Diagnostics:
Trouble Shooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing Procedures, Wiring Diagram Interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, electrical component repair.
Technical Data:
Specifications, Tolerances, Torque Values, Fluid Capacities, Part Numbers (where applicable).
Depth Of Information:
Authoritative, dealership-level technical information covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full component rebuilds.
Engine 1 Displacement:
3.7L (226 cu in)
Engine 1 Configuration:
SOHC
Engine 1 Horsepower Est:
210 HP @ 5200 RPM (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque Est:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM (approx.)
Engine 2 Displacement:
4.7L (287 cu in)
Engine 2 Configuration:
SOHC
Engine 2 Horsepower Est:
235 HP @ 5000 RPM (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque Est:
290 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (check manual for specific requirements)
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) for 3.7L V6, 5-Speed Automatic (NAG1/722.6) for 4.7L V8.
Optional Transmission:
Manual transmission was not widely offered on the Nitro in these years for the US market, primarily automatic. (Confirm specific market/region if manual transmission is a concern).
Drive Type:
Available in 2WD (RWD) and 4WD.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5 Stars (Driver & Passenger, 2007 model)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
5 Stars (Front & Rear Seat, 2007 model)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good (2007 model)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2007 model)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control (often standard or optional depending on trim).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side curtain airbags (optional or standard), Pretensioner seatbelts.
Infotainment Options:
Available audio systems included AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 capability. Higher trims might have navigation systems and premium audio options.
Driver Assistance Features:
Standard ABS, Traction Control, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on most models. Parking assist sensors were an option.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack. Uconnect hands-free communication system was an optional feature on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, or sooner under severe driving. Check manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Certified), depending on engine and temperature. Refer to manual.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Orange color. Mopar P/N 68048553AA or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (for 42RLE automatic), ATF 4+ or equivalent (for 722.6 5-speed automatic). Refer to manual.
Common Issues 1:
Catalytic converter failure, Power steering pump leaks, Suspension component wear (ball joints, control arms), EGR valve issues on diesel (if applicable to market, but typically gas engines for Nitro), HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Common Issues 2:
Check engine light due to various sensor failures (O2 sensors, camshaft position sensors). Water pump leaks.
Dodge Brand History:
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 SUV, marking Dodge's entry into a more mainstream SUV segment with a focus on styling and utility. It was based on the Chrysler KA platform, sharing components with the Jeep Liberty.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in Toluca, Mexico.
Safety Awards:
Received good safety ratings from IIHS and 5-star ratings from NHTSA for frontal and side impacts in 2007, indicating a solid safety structure for its class at the time.
Consumer Reports Rankings:
Consumer Reports ratings for the Dodge Nitro in its early years were often mixed, with praise for its styling and V8 engine option but criticisms regarding fuel economy, interior quality, and ride comfort compared to some competitors.
Manual Certification:
This manual is an authorized reproduction providing dealership-level technical accuracy.
