Market Segment:
Mid-size/Full-size Wagon/Hatchback
Key Competitors 2007:
Ford Five Hundred, Toyota Camry (wagon variant if applicable), Subaru Outback, Audi A6 Avant, Volvo V70.
Design Language:
Aggressive, muscular styling with a distinctive wagon/hatchback body style.
Performance Options:
Available V6 and powerful HEMI V8 engines, including the high-performance SRT8 variant.
Interior Space:
Spacious interior offering ample passenger and cargo room.
Driving Dynamics:
Rear-wheel drive biased (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) options, contributing to confident handling.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete diagnosis, repair, overhaul procedures for all engine variants (3.5L V6, 5.7L V8 HEMI, 6.1L V8 HEMI).
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection, emission controls, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging system.
Transmission:
Service and repair of Automatic Transaxle (e.g., NAG1 5-speed for V6/R/T, manual transmission for SRT8 if applicable).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, repair procedures for hydraulic and ABS components, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Lighting, power windows, power seats, remote keyless entry, battery, charging system, starter, fuse and relay locations.
Body And Trim:
Exterior and interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, body panel repair, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Infotainment And Electronics:
Radio, navigation system, speaker systems, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM) diagnostics.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and repair, seat belt systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup and interpretation.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding.
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, component specifications.
Depth:
Factory-level, comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
3.5L V6:
SOHC, 24-valve, 3.5-liter V6. Power output typically around 250-255 hp and 250-255 lb-ft of torque. Uses spark plugs: Champion RE10MC or NGK LFR5AIX-11.
5.7L Hemi V8:
OHV, 16-valve, 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with Multiple Displacement System (MDS). Power output typically around 340 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Uses spark plugs: Champion Copper Plus RN14MC.
6.1L Hemi V8 (Srt8):
OHV, 16-valve, 6.1-liter HEMI V8 (naturally aspirated). Power output typically around 425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. Uses spark plugs: Champion RE10PMCF.
Horsepower Range:
250 hp to 425 hp
Torque Range:
250 lb-ft to 420 lb-ft
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6/5.7L HEMI, 91 octane recommended for SRT8)
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) for all engines.
V6/R/T:
5-speed Automatic Transaxle (Mercedes-Benz sourced NAG1).
Srt8:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Tremec TR-6060).
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on V6 and 5.7L HEMI models.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent for NAG1. Specific fluid type and capacity are critical and detailed in the manual.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Manual specifies appropriate gear oil, often a high-quality synthetic GL-4 or GL-5. Refer to manual for exact specification (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant).
Length:
Approximately 197.7 inches
Width:
Approximately 74.1 inches
Height:
Approximately 58.4 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 116.0 inches
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3,700 lbs to 4,100 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for 2007 models in many configurations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2007 models in many configurations)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for models tested).
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) available on most models, standard on SRT8.
Traction Control:
Standard on most models.
Antilock Brakes:
Standard ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Airbags:
Advanced multi-stage front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available full-length side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Front seat belt pretensioners, load limiters.
Audio System:
Available premium audio systems from Boston Acoustics or Infinity, with CD player, MP3 capability, and satellite radio readiness. Navigation systems were also optional.
Parking Sensors:
Available rear parking assist sensors.
Bluetooth:
Available Uconnect hands-free communication system (Bluetooth) on some trims.
Remote Start:
Optional remote start system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals. Refer to manual for specific severe duty recommendations.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or at approximately 30,000 miles. Detailed inspection guidance in manual.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect annually, replace as needed or at approximately 15,000-20,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement 3.5L:
Approximately 100,000 miles (if using extended-life plugs like NGK Iridium or Platinum). Consult manual for exact recommendation and torque.
Spark Plug Replacement 5.7L/6.1L Hemi:
Approximately 100,000 miles (if using extended-life plugs). Refer to manual for correct plug type and torque specification.
Engine Oil 3.5L V6:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil meeting MS-6395 specification. Capacity: Approx. 6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil meeting MS-6395 specification. Capacity: Approx. 7 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter.
Engine Oil 6.1L Hemi (Srt8):
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil meeting MS-A1A or MS-12633 specification. Capacity: Approx. 7 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter.
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT compatible coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula). Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity varies by engine.
Front Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, control arm bushings, and tie rod ends can experience wear, leading to clunking noises and alignment issues. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Issues:
Some models may experience PCM-related issues or software glitches. The manual provides diagnostic steps for these.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
On HEMI engines, exhaust manifold cracks can occur, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises. The manual covers replacement procedures.
Transmission Issues (Nag1):
The 5-speed automatic can sometimes exhibit delayed shifting or harsh engagements. The manual details diagnostic procedures and fluid maintenance.
Oil Cooler Lines:
Potential for leaks from oil cooler lines on certain HEMI applications. Manual will provide details on locating and replacing them.
Dodge Brand Legacy:
Known for performance-oriented vehicles, muscle cars, and distinctive styling.
Magnum Lineage:
Revival of the Dodge Magnum nameplate, previously used for muscle cars in the 1970s and 1980s. The 2005-2008 generation was a significant departure, offering a performance-oriented wagon/hatchback.
Production Years Second Gen:
2005-2008
Manufacturing Plant:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.