🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Charger

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

LX

Body Style:

4-door Sedan

👋 Introduction

Introduction Year:

2005

Segment:

Full-size Sedan (RWD platform)

Target Audience:

Families, performance enthusiasts seeking a blend of power and practicality

Key Competitors:

Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, Buick Lucerne

Platform Heritage:

Utilizes the LX platform, shared with other Chrysler Group vehicles, offering a robust rear-wheel-drive architecture.

Design Philosophy:

Reintroduced the iconic Charger nameplate with a focus on muscular styling, powerful engine options, and a comfortable, spacious interior.

Performance Orientation:

Offered V6 and V8 HEMI engine options, catering to a desire for strong acceleration and highway cruising.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mechanical, Electrical, Body, Chassis

Diagnostic Coverage:

Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures

Maintenance Coverage:

Preventative Maintenance, Scheduled Service

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds of pages (typical for factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder heads, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system (chain/belt), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery (mechanical aspects), emission control (mechanical aspects)

Engine Performance:

Engine tuning, performance diagnostics, emissions testing procedures, engine codes and interpretations

Transmission Automatic:

Internal components, hydraulic control, torque converter, electronic controls, fluid, seals, band/clutch pack replacement, diagnostics

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox components, clutch system, linkage, fluid, seals, diagnostics (if applicable to specific trims)

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, axle shafts, universal joints, wheel bearings

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, ESC, rotors, calipers, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, parking brake, bleeding procedures

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (multi-link, shock absorbers, springs), wheel alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, tie rods, steering angle sensor

Electrical Chassis:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, horns, wipers, power windows, power seats, door locks, mirrors

Electrical Engine:

Engine control module (ECM), ignition system, fuel injection system, sensors (crankshaft, camshaft, O2, MAP, etc.), actuators, starter, alternator

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, structural components, collision repair guidelines, weatherstripping, seals

Climate Control:

HVAC system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, controls

Restraints:

Airbag system, SRS module, seat belts, pre-tensioners, diagnostic procedures for SRS

Infotainment And Audio:

Radio, speakers, navigation system (if equipped), display units, connectivity modules

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, tire rotation

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter, fuel pump, brake calipers, suspension arms, drive belts)

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

System-specific troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution strategies

Rebuild Procedures:

Overhaul procedures for engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical assemblies (e.g., detailed torque sequences, clearances, component specifications)

Electrical Diagnostics:

Use of multimeters, oscilloscopes, diagnostic scan tools, tracing electrical faults, relay testing, sensor testing

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, dent repair, rust mitigation, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, bearing clearances, piston ring gap, valve lash adjustments, alignment angles

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, including component location and connector pinouts

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostics, including module programming, system resets, and component calibration

Repair Complexity:

Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including complex electrical system repairs

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Designed for high-quality printing, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

3.5L V6 SOHC (EGD)

3.5L V6 Horsepower:

250 hp @ 6400 rpm

3.5L V6 Torque:

250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Engine Option 2:

5.7L V8 HEMI SOHC (EZH)

5.7L V8 Horsepower:

340 hp @ 5000 rpm

5.7L V8 Torque:

390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

5.7L V8 Mds:

Multi-Displacement System (MDS) for improved fuel economy

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Cooling Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

Oil Type 3.5L:

SAE 5W-20 (API SN or equivalent)

Oil Type 5.7L:

SAE 5W-20 (API SN or equivalent)

Oil Capacity 3.5L:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Oil Capacity 5.7L:

7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters) with filter

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed automatic (W5A580 for 3.5L, NAG1 for 5.7L)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 2005 LX (Manual transmission was not offered on LX)

Automatic Features:

AutoStick manual shifting capability, electronic control

Transmission Fluid Type 5Spd Auto:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Capacity 5Spd Auto:

Approximately 9-10 US quarts (8.5-9.4 liters) for a fluid change, higher for a complete overhaul.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

197.7 inches (5022 mm)

Width:

74.1 inches (1882 mm)

Height:

58.4 inches (1483 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.0 inches (2946 mm)

Front Track:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Rear Track:

63.1 inches (1603 mm)

Curb Weight 3.5L:

Approximately 3,770 lbs (1710 kg)

Curb Weight 5.7L:

Approximately 3,955 lbs (1794 kg)

Passenger Volume:

106.2 cubic feet (3.0 cubic meters)

Trunk Capacity:

15.2 cubic feet (0.43 cubic meters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

5-star

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

5-star

NHTSA Side Driver Impact:

4-star

NHTSA Side Passenger Impact:

5-star

NHTSA Rollover:

4-star

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control (TCS)

Stability Control:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on some models

Airbags Front:

Standard advanced multi-stage front airbags

Airbags Side:

Standard front seat-mounted side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Optional full-length side-curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Uconnect infotainment system available on higher trims, featuring AM/FM/CD, optional navigation, and satellite radio.

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system available on some trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear park assist system

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary input for audio devices, available Bluetooth connectivity with Uconnect

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions, refer to manual for severe conditions)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually

Spark Plug Replacement 3.5L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with original equipment spark plugs

Spark Plug Replacement 5.7L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with original equipment spark plugs (often platinum-tipped)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on driving conditions and manual recommendation.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT (Hybrid OAT) or equivalent (typically purple color)

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 12.7 US quarts (12.0 liters) for 3.5L V6, 13.7 US quarts (13.0 liters) for 5.7L V8

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Common Issues 3.5L V6:

Oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan gasket, occasional issues with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system, power steering pump noise.

Common Issues 5.7L Hemi:

Intake manifold gasket leaks, lifter noise (related to MDS system), exhaust manifold cracks, potential for oil leaks similar to the V6.

Transmission Issues:

The 5-speed automatic transmission (NAG1/W5A580) can be sensitive to fluid condition and cooling. Some units may experience rough shifting or solenoid issues.

Suspension Issues:

Worn ball joints and control arm bushings, especially in higher-mileage vehicles, leading to clunking noises and alignment issues.

Electrical Issues:

Faulty window regulators, issues with the Body Control Module (BCM), and intermittent electrical gremlins can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing powerful and distinctive American cars, often associated with performance and bold styling.

Charger Nameplate Return:

The 2005 model marked the revival of the iconic Dodge Charger nameplate after a hiatus, repositioning it as a four-door performance sedan.

Platform Sharing:

Based on the Chrysler LX platform, which also underpinned the Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300, sharing significant mechanical components and architecture.

Manufacturing Location:

Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada

Production Years:

2005-2010 (for this generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Recognition:

Received good to excellent ratings in NHTSA crash tests for its segment at the time of release.

Performance Recognition:

The HEMI V8 engine option was widely praised for its power and accessibility, contributing to the Charger's performance image.

Design Recognition:

The retro-inspired styling and aggressive stance were generally well-received, evoking the spirit of classic Chargers.