Positioning:
The 2005 Dodge Magnum was positioned as a niche, stylish sport wagon, offering a unique blend of performance and practicality in the American market.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Chrysler 300 Touring, certain European wagons, and some performance-oriented SUVs, though its styling set it apart.
Design:
Distinctive 'cab-forward' design inspired by the European styling trends, long hood, and aggressive front fascia.
Powertrain Options:
Available with V6 and V8 HEMI engines, offering a range of performance levels.
Platform Sharing:
Shared the Chrysler LX platform with the Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, and Dodge Challenger.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions, engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., NAG1 5-speed) service, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle and hub service, propeller shaft, differential service.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, power assist, ABS, traction control, brake diagnostics and repair, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, linkage service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horns, power windows, power locks, mirrors, power seats.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, climate control.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, bumpers, interior trim, exterior trim, corrosion protection.
Chassis Electrical:
Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lamps, body control module (BCM), interior electronics.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, occupant restraint systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, component testing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, disassembly, reassembly, and installation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, and other critical technical data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians, including detailed diagnostic procedures and overhaul instructions.
User Level:
Primarily for professional technicians, but accessible to advanced DIY enthusiasts with mechanical aptitude.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed automatic transmission
Transmission Code Standard:
NAG1 (W5A580) for V8, 42RLE for V6.
Transmission Type Optional:
N/A (Automatic was standard across the board)
Transmission Features:
Driver-adaptive electronic control, manual shift mode (Autostick on some models), electronic range selection.
Transmission Fluid Type Nag1:
ATF 4 HP 22 E (also referred to as Mopar ATF+4 or equivalent specification fluid - check specific manual for precise Mopar part number).
Transmission Fluid Capacity Nag1:
Approximately 9.8 liters (10.4 US quarts) for a dry fill; 5-6 liters for a pan drop and refill.
Transmission Fluid Type 42Rle:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602 or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Rle:
Approximately 7.1 liters (7.5 US quarts) for a dry fill; 3.5-4 liters for a pan drop and refill.
Length:
198.6 inches (5045 mm)
Width:
74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
57.7 inches (1466 mm)
Wheelbase:
120.0 inches (3048 mm)
Front Track:
63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Rear Track:
63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approximately 27.2 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approximately 65.7 cubic feet
Curb Weight V6:
Approximately 3770 lbs (1710 kg)
Curb Weight V8:
Approximately 3974 lbs (1803 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by engine and configuration, typically around 4700-4850 lbs.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x115mm
Standard Wheel Size:
17-inch alloy
Optional Wheel Size:
18-inch alloy, 20-inch alloy
Standard Tire Size V6:
P215/65R17
Standard Tire Size V8:
P225/55R18
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
Good
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable
Traction Control:
Standard on all models
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional on V6, Standard on V8 (ESC or ESP)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard on all models
Airbags Front:
Advanced front airbags (driver and passenger)
Airbags Side:
Front side-impact airbags (optional on V6, standard on V8)
Airbags Curtain:
Full-length side-curtain airbags (optional)
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, LATCH child seat anchors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life platinum)
Spark Plug Replacement V8 Hemi:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life platinum, check for specific recommendations for MDS).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or under severe usage. Filter replacement recommended.
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (Refer to owner's manual for specific API service category, e.g., API SN or newer).
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter.
Engine Oil Type V8 Hemi:
SAE 5W-20 Synthetic (for MDS models) or SAE 5W-30. Refer to owner's manual for specific API service category.
Engine Oil Capacity V8 Hemi:
7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT or P-HOAT compatible. Typically a long-life pink or orange coolant. Consult manual for specific Mopar part number (e.g., MS-98042).
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 12.0-13.0 quarts (11.4-12.3 liters) depending on engine and cooling system configuration.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation and potential DOT 4 upgrade).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4 (verify in manual, as some Chrysler products used ATF+4).
Common Issue 1:
Transmission issues: Hesitation, rough shifting, or failure to engage can occur, especially with the NAG1 transmission. Fluid leaks and torque converter problems are also noted.
Common Issue 2:
Suspension components: Premature wear of ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can lead to knocking noises and poor handling.
Common Issue 3:
Interior electrical issues: Problems with power windows, door locks, and the instrument cluster can arise.
Common Issue 4:
HEMI piston slap: Some HEMI engines exhibited a characteristic noise when cold, which often is not indicative of a serious failure but can be concerning.
Common Issue 5:
Water pump leaks: Can develop leaks over time, requiring replacement.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles and trucks, often with a focus on bold styling and powerful engines.
Magnum Return:
The 2005 Magnum marked the return of the Dodge Magnum nameplate after a long absence, reimagined as a rear-wheel-drive sport wagon.
Platform Development:
Developed on the new Chrysler LX platform, which was a significant move for Dodge, bringing rear-wheel drive back to a wider range of models.
Trim Levels 2005:
SXT (V6), Magnum (V8 5.7L HEMI)
Production Start Year:
2004 (for the 2005 model year)
Production End Year:
2008
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Initial Reception:
Praised for its bold styling and powerful HEMI V8 option, offering a distinct European-inspired design with American muscle.
Kbb Rating 2005:
Generally rated well for styling and performance, though practicality and fuel economy were points of consideration.
Epa Fuel Economy V6 Rwd City:
Approximately 18 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy V6 Rwd Highway:
Approximately 25 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy V8 Rwd City:
Approximately 15 MPG (with MDS)
Epa Fuel Economy V8 Rwd Highway:
Approximately 22 MPG (with MDS)