🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Nitro

Year:

2007

Generation Designation:

First Generation (KA)

Platform Code:

CK Platform (shared with Mitsubishi Raider)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Compact SUV positioned as a stylish and rugged offering in its segment, targeting buyers seeking a more aggressive aesthetic and capable, albeit less refined, on-road and light off-road performance.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Ford Edge, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Murano, and Chevrolet Equinox. Differentiated itself with its bold styling and available V8 engine, a rarity in the segment at the time.

Key Features:

Distinctive exterior styling, spacious interior, available powerful V8 engine, available AWD system, practical cargo space.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Styles, All Trim Levels

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Emission Controls, Transmission (Automatic and Manual), Drivetrain (4WD/AWD Systems, Transfer Case, Axles, Driveshafts), Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, Hydraulic), Wheels and Tires, Body and Frame, Interior Trim and Upholstery, HVAC System, Electrical System (Lighting, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams), Instrumentation, Audio System, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Component Disassembly and Reassembly, Repair Procedures, Replacement Procedures, Diagnostic Testing, Troubleshooting, Adjustments, Calibration, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Belt Replacement, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Component Repair, Electrical System Diagnostics and Repair, HVAC System Service, Body Panel Repair and Replacement, Interior Component Repair

Technical Depth:

Complete Factory Level Diagnosis and Repair, Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions, Exploded Views, Wiring Diagrams, Technical Specifications, Torque Specifications, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their Meanings, Repair Times (R.T.s)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Full Printable, High-Resolution Diagrams

Binding Type:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.7L V6 (PentaStar)

Optional Engine:

4.7L V8 (PowerTech)

Horsepower 3.7L V6:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 3.7L V6:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower 4.7L V8:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque 4.7L V8:

305 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel System 3.7L V6:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel System 4.7L V8:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (for 2.8L CRD Diesel - not standard in North America for 2007 model year)

Drive Modes:

Part-time 4WD or Full-time 4WD (with Electronic Transfer Case)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.0 inches (4547 mm)

Width:

73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Height:

68.4 inches (1737 mm)

Wheelbase:

109.7 inches (2786 mm)

Curb Weight V6:

4,149 lbs (1,882 kg)

Curb Weight V8:

4,315 lbs (1,957 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 Stars

NHTSA Rollover:

4 Stars

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA)

Passive Features:

Front Advanced Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (Optional), Occupant Protection System

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and optional Boston Acoustics premium sound system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Hill Start Assist.

Connectivity Features:

Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (severe duty) or 6,000 miles (normal duty) using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (based on OE specifications).

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Approx. 100,000 miles (based on OE specifications).

Engine Oil Type V6:

SAE 5W-20 (Chrysler MS-6395)

Engine Oil Type V8:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (Chrysler MS-6395)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602)

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (Chrysler MS-9769)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Known Issues:

Water pump leaks, interior rattles and squeaks, power window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor issues, potential for oil filter adapter housing leaks on V8 models.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a brand with a long history of performance and muscular vehicle design, introduced the Nitro to broaden its SUV lineup with a more style-oriented and American-centric offering.

Model Evolution:

The Nitro was based on the Dodge Raider, a rebadged Mitsubishi Montero Sport, and was one of the first Dodge vehicles developed under the Chrysler-Mitsubishi alliance. It was designed to stand out with its bold, truck-like styling.

Production Years:

2007-2012

Manufacturing Location:

Toluca, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not a recipient of major automotive awards, the Dodge Nitro was recognized for its distinctive styling and value proposition within its segment, particularly with the availability of the V8 engine.