Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians
Key Competitors:
Jeep Liberty (platform sharing), Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V
Vehicle Strengths:
Bold styling, available powerful V6 engines, relatively capable off-road for its class (especially with 4WD)
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information, enabling significant cost savings on servicing and repairs.
Engine:
3.7L V6 (SOHC), 4.0L V6 (SOHC)
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE), 5-Speed Automatic (W5A580)
Drivetrain:
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD), Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Suspension And Steering:
Front Independent Suspension (Double Wishbone), Rear Solid Axle, Power Rack and Pinion Steering
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Disc, Rear Solid Disc, ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
Electrical System:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM)
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation
Body And Frame:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Frame Components
Safety Systems:
Airbags, Seatbelts, Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and Filter Changes, Air Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-Offs, Tire Rotation
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Charts, DTC Code Explanations and Resolution, Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Component Replacement (e.g., heads, pistons, seals), Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Special Tools And Equipment:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
File Size:
Up to 5 GB (variable)
Compatibility:
Windows, macOS, Linux, Tablets, Smartphones
Printability:
Fully printable for physical copy
Illustration Quality:
Clear, step-by-step illustrated instructions, zoomable illustrations, exploded views
Binding:
Digital Download (Not a physical book)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2007 Model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2007 Model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5 Stars (2007 Model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5 Stars (2007 Model)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5 Stars (2007 Model)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5 Stars (2007 Model)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 Stars (2007 Model)
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Passive Safety:
Front Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (Optional/Standard depending on trim), Occupant Classification System
Infotainment System:
Available AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Uconnect infotainment system with Bluetooth and voice commands became available in later model years.
Driver Assistance Features:
Available ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (late models), basic cruise control.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity with Uconnect system, auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (under normal driving conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 3.7L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life iridium spark plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (severe service) or 100,000 miles (normal service).
Engine Oil Spec 3.7L 4.0L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or equivalent (check manual for specific certifications)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:
Approx. 5 US quarts (4.7 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:
Approx. 6 US quarts (5.7 liters)
Transmission Fluid Spec 42Rle:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Spec W5A580:
MB-Approval 236.10 or equivalent (e.g., ATF 4134)
Common Complaint 1:
Interior rattles and squeaks due to less than robust interior materials and build quality.
Common Complaint 2:
Brake wear and potential rotor warping, especially in earlier models or with heavy use.
Common Complaint 3:
Fuel pump failures reported by some owners.
Common Complaint 4:
Power steering pump leaks or failures.
Common Complaint 5:
Check engine light due to various sensor issues (e.g., O2 sensors, EGR valve).
Brand Focus:
Dodge historically known for performance-oriented vehicles, trucks, and SUVs.
Generation Notes:
First generation of the Dodge Nitro, launched as a 2007 model. It shared its platform with the second-generation Jeep Liberty.
Manufacturing Plant:
Toledo North Assembly Plant, Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years Model:
2007-2012
