Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size station wagon / Sports wagon
Unique Selling Proposition:
American-style performance wagon with rear-wheel-drive (RWD) bias and available V8 power, unique styling.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Outback, Audi A6 Allroad, Volvo V70, BMW 5 Series Touring (though often perceived as a more aggressive, performance-oriented alternative).
Design Philosophy:
Bold, aggressive styling with a muscular stance, contrasting with more conservative European wagon designs.
Performance Variants:
Availability of powerful V8 engines, particularly the 5.7L HEMI in the R/T and the 6.1L HEMI in the SRT8 model.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (Front & Rear Disc, ABS)
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), Antitheft System
Body And Frame:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Glass, Frame Repair
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
OBD-II codes, symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing, wiring diagrams
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine component replacement (pistons, rods, valves), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), electrical component repair
Component Installation:
Replacement of major components, accessory installation, bodywork repair procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text, allowing for quick access to specific topics.
Print Recommendation:
High quality for printing, with clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Base Transmission:
4-speed automatic (42RLE)
Performance Transmission R/T:
5-speed automatic (W5A580)
Srt8 Transmission:
5-speed automatic (W5A580)
Drive Layout:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard on all trims; All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on 3.5L V6 models.
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard on R/T and SRT8, optional on SXT.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-star (2005-2008 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-star (2005-2008 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-star (2005-2008 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-star (2005-2008 models)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good (2005-2008 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2005-2008 models)
Standard Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) (standard on R/T & SRT8, optional on SXT)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, available full-length side curtain airbags.
Available Systems:
Boston Acoustics premium audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, in-dash CD changer, optional navigation system (MyGig system introduced later in production).
Available Features:
ParkSense rear park assist, rain-sensing wipers (on higher trims).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling (with Uconnect system on some models), auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on transmission type and service duty (consult manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine: 2.7L V6/3.5L V6 (~100,000 miles), 5.7L HEMI (~100,000 miles with specific plugs), 6.1L HEMI (~100,000 miles with specific plugs).
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher, Chrysler MS-6395. Capacity: 7 quarts with filter.
Engine Oil 3.5L V6:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher, Chrysler MS-6395. Capacity: 6 quarts with filter.
Transmission Fluid W5A580:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.14 specification (e.g., Pentosin ATF1).
Transmission Fluid 42Rle:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Coolant, HOAT or compatible coolant. Mopar part number 05103530AA or equivalent.
Oil Cooler Lines:
Leaking oil cooler lines (especially on HEMI engines) can lead to oil loss and potential engine damage. Regular inspection is recommended.
Interior Rattles:
Some owners report interior rattles and trim noise due to the extensive use of hard plastics and the wagon body style.
Power Steering Pump:
Premature failure of the power steering pump and/or rack can occur in some cases.
Tipm Issues:
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) can be a source of electrical gremlins, affecting various vehicle functions.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of offering performance-oriented and aggressively styled vehicles, often appealing to a more performance-focused demographic.
Magnum Legacy:
The Magnum nameplate was revived for this generation, previously used on a coupe and convertible in the 1970s and 1980s. This iteration was a significant departure, focusing on a rear-drive platform and performance capabilities.
Production Years:
2005-2008
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Sales Performance:
Sales were moderate, with the vehicle struggling to find a large market niche despite its performance capabilities and unique styling, leading to its discontinuation after only four model years.
Performance Awards:
The SRT8 model was often lauded for its surprising performance capabilities in a wagon body style, often receiving praise from automotive journalists for its V8 power and handling.
Car And Driver Editorials:
Often featured in comparison tests, highlighting its unique American muscle wagon appeal.
Safety Certifications:
Consistent strong safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS across the production years.
