Market Position:
The Dodge Magnum was positioned as a unique American 'four-door coupe' or sporty wagon, offering a blend of practicality and performance within the mid-size segment, often competing with European luxury wagons and performance sedans.
Uniqueness:
The Magnum stood out in its segment with its distinctive wagon-like silhouette, rear-wheel-drive bias, and availability of powerful V8 engines, carving out a unique niche for those seeking performance and utility in a less conventional package.
Competitors:
Competed indirectly with vehicles like the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, and more directly with performance-oriented sedans like the Pontiac G8 (later model) and certain trims of the Ford Taurus.
Key Features:
Rear-wheel drive platform shared with Chrysler 300/Charger, distinctive styling, available HEMI V8 engines, spacious interior and cargo capacity for a sporty vehicle.
Performance Variants:
The availability of the powerful 5.7L HEMI V8 engine and the top-tier SRT8 model with the 6.1L HEMI significantly boosted the Magnum's performance credentials.
Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes (ABS, standard), wheels and tires, body (interior and exterior), electrical system, HVAC, SRS (airbags), security system, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Frame and body construction, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, upholstery, sound insulation.
Lighting And Instruments:
Headlamps, tail lamps, interior lighting, instrument cluster, gauges, warning indicators, switchgear.
Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, routine servicing, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component removal and installation, repair procedures, overhaul procedures, component testing, specifications, torque values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring schematic interpretation.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle problems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for all electrical components, including power distribution, grounds, and signal paths.
Special Tools:
Details on required or recommended special tools for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Deep technical detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and complex electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners and specific Chrysler diagnostic tools.
Base Engine:
3.5L High Output V6 (250-255 hp, 250-250 lb-ft torque)
Engine Layout:
V6 and V8 configurations
Available Engines:
2.7L V6 (178 hp, 190 lb-ft torque), 5.7L HEMI V8 (340-350 hp, 390-390 lb-ft torque)
Srt8 Engine:
6.1L HEMI V8 (425 hp, 420 lb-ft torque) - exclusive to SRT8 trim.
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Engine Codes:
2.7L: EER, 3.5L: N62, 5.7L HEMI: EZB, EZH
Srt8 Engine Code:
6.1L HEMI: EZD
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed automatic (42RLE) for 2.7L and 3.5L V6 models.
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed automatic (5-45RFE) for 5.7L HEMI V8 models.
Transmission Type Srt8:
5-speed automatic (5-45RFE) with AutoStick.
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up, available AutoStick (manual shifting mode).
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 5.0 - 5.5 inches.
Cargo Volume:
Approximately 21.6 cubic feet with rear seats up.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,800 - 4,200 lbs depending on engine and configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration, typically around 5,000 - 5,500 lbs.
Towing Capacity:
Typically rated up to 2,000 lbs for models equipped with a towing package.
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-star rating (driver and passenger) for 2005 models.
IIHS Side Impact:
'Good' rating for 2005 models.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (optional/standard on higher trims).
ABS System:
Bosch 5.7 ABS system on most models.
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain side airbags (optional/standard on higher trims), active head restraints.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear seats.
Infotainment System:
Available Boston Acoustics premium sound system, Uconnect hands-free communication and entertainment system (later models), SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Navigation System:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkSense rear parking assist (optional), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Connectivity Features:
Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling via Uconnect.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendation based on oil quality (e.g., synthetic).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles for 5.7L HEMI (uses two spark plugs per cylinder), and 60,000-100,000 miles for V6 engines, depending on type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, especially under severe service. Check manual for specific interval and fluid type.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, inspect more frequently.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect at every oil change, replace as needed (typically 60,000-100,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395 (e.g., Pennzoil, Quaker State). 5.7L HEMI may recommend 5W-20.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
For 42RLE: ATF+4 (MS-9602). For 5-45RFE: ATF+4 (MS-9602).
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) type, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent, usually a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Extended life coolant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific application), typically Chrysler MS-5901 or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Chrysler MS-5901 or equivalent power steering fluid.
Common Issues:
Variable valve timing (VVT) system issues in 3.5L V6 (camshaft phaser failures), early transmission issues (especially with 42RLE), water pump leaks, manifold crack or leak (HEMI), front suspension wear (ball joints, control arms), potential for CAN bus communication errors.
Brake Wear:
Brake pads and rotors can wear relatively quickly, especially on performance models or with aggressive driving. Recommended to inspect regularly.
Brand Heritage:
Dodge, a marque of Chrysler, has a long history of producing performance-oriented American vehicles, often focusing on muscle cars and powerful V8 engines. The Magnum nameplate itself has historical roots in Dodge's performance lineage.
Model Evolution:
The 2005-2010 Dodge Magnum was a revival of the Magnum nameplate, based on the redesigned Chrysler LX platform, which also underpinned the Dodge Charger sedan and Chrysler 300 sedan/wagon. It was conceived as a niche product to fill a gap in the market, offering a practical yet sporty alternative to traditional sedans and SUVs.
Facelift Updates:
Minor cosmetic updates for 2008, including revised front and rear fascias, and interior upgrades.
Trim Levels:
SE, SXT, SLT, RT, SRT8.
Production Period:
2005-2008 model years (introduced in 2004 for the 2005 model year).
Production End:
Discontinued after the 2008 model year in North America, though sold briefly into 2010 in other markets.
Manufacturing Plant:
Bramalea Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.
Recognitions:
While not a recipient of major 'Car of the Year' awards, the Dodge Magnum's design and performance, particularly the SRT8 variant, were generally praised by automotive critics for its unique appeal and power.
Performance Ratings:
The 5.7L HEMI and especially the 6.1L HEMI (in the SRT8 model) received accolades for strong performance and distinctive V8 sound.
