🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Nitro

Years Covered:

2007, 2008, 2009

Platform:

Chrysler KA/PM platform (shared with Mitsubishi Raider)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size SUV

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking utility and a distinct style.

Key Competitors:

Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Jeep Liberty.

Differentiators:

Bold styling, available V8 engine (in some markets/configurations), truck-like capability.

Styling:

Distinctive, rugged exterior design influenced by the Dodge Charger.

Powertrain Options:

Variety of V6 and V8 engine options, RWD and AWD availability.

Interior Design:

Functional and spacious interior, though materials quality was sometimes criticized.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive bumper-to-bumper repair and service

Specific Systems:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Interior, Emissions

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for a factory service manual of this scope)

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components for all available engines.

Engine Performance:

Diagnosis and repair of drivability issues, fuel system, ignition system, emission controls.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for the manual transmission (if applicable).

Transmission Automatic:

Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, and repair of the automatic transmission, including torque converter and valve body.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) system service, including differentials, axles, driveshafts, and transfer case (for 4WD).

Suspension Front:

Front suspension component diagnosis, replacement, and alignment procedures (e.g., control arms, ball joints, struts/shocks).

Suspension Rear:

Rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, and alignment procedures (e.g., trailing arms, shocks, coil springs).

Steering:

Power steering system service, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion diagnosis and repair.

Brakes System:

Hydraulic brake system diagnosis, repair, bleeding, and component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, ABS).

Electrical Charging Starting:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, and related circuit testing and repair.

Electrical Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and exterior lighting system diagnosis and repair.

Electrical Instruments Controls:

Instrument cluster, switches, relays, and control modules testing and repair.

HVAC:

Air conditioning (A/C) system service, heating system, ventilation, and climate control diagnosis and repair.

Body Exterior:

Door mechanisms, latches, hinges, exterior trim, bumpers, and sheet metal repair procedures.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, upholstery, interior trim, and accessory installation/removal.

Restraint Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement, including SRS module.

Emissions Control:

Diagnosis and repair of emissions-related components and systems, catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EVAP.

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems.

Repair Operations:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, including use of scan tools, wiring diagrams, and component testing methods.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for any special tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

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

Information Sources:

Based on original manufacturer data and engineering specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Print Readability:

High-resolution diagrams and text, suitable for printing.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine 2007-2009:

3.7L V6 (SOHC)

Base Engine Displacement:

3.7 liters (226 cubic inches)

Base Engine Horsepower:

Approximately 210-215 hp

Base Engine Torque:

Approximately 235-240 lb-ft

Optional Engine 2007-2008:

4.7L V8 (SOHC)

Optional Engine 2009:

5.7L HEMI V8 (SOHC)

4.7L V8 Displacement:

4.7 liters (287 cubic inches)

4.7L V8 Horsepower:

Approximately 235-260 hp

4.7L V8 Torque:

Approximately 290-325 lb-ft

5.7L Hemi Displacement:

5.7 liters (345 cubic inches)

5.7L Hemi Horsepower:

Approximately 360-370 hp

5.7L Hemi Torque:

Approximately 390-400 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6, premium may be recommended for higher performance V8s).

ECU:

Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar, depending on engine variant.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type V6:

5-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE variants)

Transmission Type V8 4.7L:

5-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE variants)

Transmission Type V8 5.7L:

5-speed automatic (722.6 variant - Mercedes-Benz sourced, often badged as NAG1)

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 116.1 inches (2950 mm)

Length:

Approx. 187.1 inches (4752 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.5 inches (1841 mm)

Height:

Approx. 71.0 inches (1803 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) for standard towing, up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with optional towing package.

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 31.2 cubic feet (883 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 63.1 cubic feet (1787 liters)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x4.5 (5x114.3 mm)

Standard Tire Size:

Typically P235/65R17 or P245/50R20, depending on trim and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Generally good (4-star driver, 4-star passenger).

NHTSA Side Crash Rating:

Mixed, often 3-star for front passenger, 4-star for rear passengers.

IIHS Rating:

Often rated 'Acceptable' or 'Marginal' in frontal offset tests.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control

AWD System:

Available All-Wheel Drive system for enhanced traction.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side curtain airbags (optional or standard depending on trim).

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available Uconnect infotainment system with touch screen, navigation, and satellite radio. Basic AM/FM/CD player standard on lower trims.

Audio Options:

Boston Acoustics premium audio system available on higher trims.

Parking Assist:

Available rear park assist system.

Rearview Camera:

Available rearview camera integrated with the infotainment system.

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine/oil type).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) with platinum or iridium plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on service conditions and fluid type.

Engine Oil Type V6:

SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification.

Engine Oil Type V8:

SAE 5W-20 (4.7L) or SAE 5W-20 / 0W-20 (5.7L HEMI) meeting Chrysler MS-6395 or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 45RFE/545RFE; MB 236.10 or equivalent for 722.6 (NAG1).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) type antifreeze/coolant meeting MS-9769 or equivalent.

Common Wear Items:

Brake components (pads, rotors), suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends due to vehicle weight and usage.

Engine V6 Potential Issues:

Oil leaks from valve covers, intake manifold gasket leaks, potential for carbon buildup over time.

Engine V8 Potential Issues:

Water pump failures (on some 4.7L), MDS system issues (on 5.7L HEMI if not maintained properly).

Transmission Potential Issues:

Early transmission fluid leaks, occasional shifting issues, particularly with higher mileage or improperly serviced units.

Electrical Potential Issues:

Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, alternator concerns.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing powerful and distinctively styled vehicles, often with a focus on performance and American muscle car heritage.

Nitro Introduction:

The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year as part of Chrysler's strategy to expand its SUV offerings with a more rugged and distinctively styled option.

Platform Sharing:

It was based on the Dodge Dakota pickup truck platform (shared with the Mitsubishi Raider) and offered a different approach compared to more car-based SUVs in its class.

Production Period:

2007-2011 (North America), extending to 2012 in other markets.

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA (at the Jeep Assembly Plant)

Key Updates 2007-2009:

The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine was introduced for 2008, and minor interior trim improvements were made across the years. The 4.7L V8 was phased out for 2009, replaced by the HEMI. The base 3.7L V6 remained consistent.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Rating:

Generally received average to below-average ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction in its early years, particularly concerning the interior and some mechanical components.

Safety Awards:

No specific major safety awards prominently associated with the 2007-2009 Nitro, though it met federal safety standards.

Segment Positioning:

Positioned as a more styled and arguably less refined alternative to mainstream mid-size SUVs, appealing to buyers prioritizing unique aesthetics.