Target Audience:
Performance-oriented sedan buyers seeking comfort, space, and available V8 power.
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, Buick LaCrosse.
Design Philosophy:
Modern interpretation of the classic Dodge Charger muscle car aesthetic, offering a balance of sporty design and practical sedan functionality.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides vehicle-specific, dealership-level repair and maintenance information, enabling DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops to perform accurate and efficient service.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel and exhaust systems, ignition system, starting and charging system, automatic and manual transmissions, driveline, axles.
Chassis:
Brakes (ABS, ESC, parking brake), suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheels and tires.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, cooling system.
Electrical:
Body control module (BCM), instrument cluster, lighting, power accessories, audio system, security system, airbags (SRS), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) explanations and repair procedures, electrical schematic interpretation.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, adjustment, and replacement for all major systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications, alignment procedures, and electrical circuit diagnostics.
Electrical Schematics:
Detailed wiring diagrams and schematics for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnosing complex electrical faults.
File Format Specifications:
Searchable text, hyperlinked sections, printable pages for ease of use in a workshop environment.
Print Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, clear text, professional layout.
Binding Type:
If printed: Professional perfect binding or spiral binding for durability and ease of page turning.
Paper Type:
If printed: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop conditions.
Manual Type Classification:
Factory Service Manual (FSM), essential for authorized service centers and serious DIY mechanics.
Engine Option 1:
3.5L V6 (High Output)
Engine Option 2:
5.7L V8 HEMI (Multi-Displacement System - MDS)
Engine Option 3:
6.1L V8 HEMI SRT (High Performance)
3.5L V6 Horsepower:
250 hp @ 6000 rpm
3.5L V6 Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
5.7L V8 Hemi Horsepower:
350 hp @ 5000 rpm
5.7L V8 Hemi Torque:
380 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
6.1L V8 Hemi Srt Horsepower:
425 hp @ 6200 rpm
6.1L V8 Hemi Srt Torque:
420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 octane unleaded (3.5L V6, 5.7L V8 HEMI); 91 octane premium unleaded (6.1L V8 HEMI SRT)
Transmission Option 1:
5-speed automatic (W5A580) for 3.5L V6 and 5.7L V8 HEMI
Transmission Option 2:
6-speed manual (T56) available on some RWD 5.7L HEMI models
Transmission Option 3:
5-speed automatic (NAG1) for 6.1L V8 HEMI SRT
Transmission Features 5.7L:
Includes Electronic Range Select (ERS) for manual gear selection.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-star (driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
5-star (front and rear passengers)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Antilock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Airbag System:
Advanced multi-stage front airbags, supplemental front and rear side curtain airbags, available front seat-mounted side airbags.
Infotainment System:
Uconnect infotainment system available, featuring AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 playback, and optional navigation and satellite radio.
Display Options:
Available 6.5-inch touch screen display.
Parking Assistance:
Available ParkSense Rear Park Assist system.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming (Uconnect system).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
75,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on engine and plug type, e.g., iridium)
Engine Oil Type 3.5L:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API Certified)
Engine Oil Type 5.7L/6.1L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20 Synthetic (API Certified, meeting Chrysler MS-6395)
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type 5-Speed Auto:
ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Pump:
Premature wear or failure, often resulting in whining noises.
Water Pump:
Leaks can develop over time, especially on V8 models.
Transmission Hard Shifting:
Some early models experienced occasional hard shifts; software updates may be available.
Cv Joints:
Wear on front CV joints, particularly in AWD models, leading to clicking noises.
Exhaust Manifold Leaks:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, especially on the 5.7L HEMI, can cause ticking sounds.
Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter change
Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L Hemi:
Approx. 7.0 quarts (6.6 L) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 11.4 quarts (10.8 L) for V6, 12.4 quarts (11.7 L) for V8
Brand:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles, particularly associated with the Charger nameplate dating back to the muscle car era.
Second Generation Lx:
The 2008 model is part of the second generation of the LX platform Charger, which debuted for the 2006 model year. It revived the iconic Charger nameplate as a four-door sedan.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely received 'Good' ratings from IIHS in various crash tests, contributing to its safety reputation.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not for this specific year, the Charger platform has historically been recognized by automotive publications for its performance and design.
