Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size station wagon / Sportwagon
Target Audience:
Families seeking a practical, spacious, and often performance-oriented American alternative to traditional sedans and SUVs.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Outback, Ford Freestyle/Taurus X, potentially larger SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee of the era.
Design Philosophy:
Unique 'sportwagon' styling, rear-wheel-drive bias with available all-wheel-drive, powerful Hemi V8 option.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service and Repair
Specific Sections:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Body, HVAC, Emissions Control, Diagnostics
Estimated Pages:
Thousands (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control modules (ECM), transmissions (automatic and manual where applicable), transfer case (AWD models), driveshafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, traction control), wheel bearings, hubs.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), power windows, power locks, seats, mirrors, audio system, climate control system, airbags, anti-theft system, diagnostic connector (OBD-II), wiring diagrams.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, safety belts, glass, seals.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Repair Overhaul:
Engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head repair, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/bearing service, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement (if applicable), brake caliper/rotor/pad replacement, power steering pump replacement, alternator replacement, starter replacement, suspension component replacement, body panel repair/replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation and resolution, electrical circuit testing, pressure testing (fuel, oil, coolant), leak detection.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance tasks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Options:
2.7L V6 (EER), 3.5L V6 (EGJ), 5.7L V8 HEMI (EZD)
2.7L V6:
Horsepower: ~190 hp, Torque: ~260 lb-ft
3.5L V6:
Horsepower: ~250 hp, Torque: ~250 lb-ft
5.7L V8 Hemi:
Horsepower: ~340-370 hp, Torque: ~390-410 lb-ft
Injection:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for V6 engines, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) for HEMI V8.
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Regular Unleaded (V6), 89 Octane or higher recommended for HEMI V8.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star (driver and passenger) for 2006-2008 models (variations may exist).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags).
Braking:
Front ventilated disc, rear solid disc (standard); ABS, BrakeAssist.
Traction Control:
Standard on most models, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available/standard on some trims.
Airbags:
Front airbags, available front side airbags, available side-curtain airbags.
Audio System:
Optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system, CD player, AM/FM radio, available SiriusXM satellite radio.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Available rear park assist sensors on some models.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, power adjustable pedals (optional).
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific interval based on engine.
Transmission Fluid:
Recommended change interval typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage. Manual will specify exact interval and procedure.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for exact specification and viscosity for each engine). Chrysler MS-6395 approved oils recommended.
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) long-life coolant (typically HOAT). Mopar OAT or equivalent. Check manual for specific color and type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on specific caliper design and ABS system requirements. Refer to manual for precise specification.
Power Steering:
Potential for leaks from pump or hoses, especially on earlier models with significant mileage.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings due to vehicle weight and performance orientation.
Hemi Mds System:
Potential for lifter noise or failure in the Multi-Displacement System. Manual will detail troubleshooting and repair.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, some owners report intermittent electrical issues, often related to ground points or specific modules. Detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are crucial.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of performance-oriented and distinctive American vehicles.
Replacing Lineage:
The Magnum was resurrected as a modern sportwagon, largely based on the Dodge Charger sedan platform (LX platform), replacing models like the Dodge Intrepid in spirit but in a different segment.
Platform Sharing:
Shared the LX platform with the Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, and Jeep Grand Cherokee of the same era, benefiting from Mercedes-Benz engineering contributions.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.
Production Years:
2005 (as a 2005 model year, but typically referred to as 2006 for common sales reference) to 2008.
