Market Position:
The 2008 Dodge Nitro was positioned as a compact SUV with a distinct, rugged styling, appealing to buyers seeking a more aggressive aesthetic than typical offerings in its segment. It aimed to blend practicality with a bolder appearance.
Key Competitors:
Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Murano, Jeep Liberty (sharing platform basis).
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Distinctive styling, available V6 engines, optional AWD, towing capability, spacious interior for its class, availability of infotainment and premium audio systems.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive coverage for all systems and components of the 2008 Dodge Nitro.
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (Digital, as typical for RepairSurge software)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software/Web-based Access (Yearly Subscription)
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Drivetrain (Front Wheel Drive, All Wheel Drive), Transmission (Automatic), Brakes (ABS, Traction Control), Steering System, Suspension System (Front and Rear), Body and Frame, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Power Distribution), HVAC System, Restraint Systems (Airbags), Wheels and Tires, Diagnostic Procedures, Maintenance Schedules, Troubleshooting Guides.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake pad and rotor replacement, suspension component repair/replacement (shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints), engine tune-up procedures, fuel injector cleaning/replacement, ignition coil and spark plug replacement, cooling system flush and fill, thermostat replacement, radiator hose replacement, serpentine belt replacement, transmission fluid and filter change, differential fluid change, CV axle replacement, brake bleeding, power steering system service, HVAC component diagnosis and repair, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement, battery testing and replacement, body panel repair and alignment, electrical diagnostic troubleshooting, interior trim removal and installation, exterior lighting repair, ABS system diagnosis.
Technical Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic procedures, detailed repair instructions with torque specifications, exploded views, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures, overhaul instructions for major components, specifications for all major systems.
Length:
180.6 in (4587 mm)
Height:
70.7 in (1796 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.5 in (2781 mm)
Curb Weight Min:
4,079 lbs (1850 kg) - 3.7L RWD
Curb Weight Max:
4,537 lbs (2058 kg) - 4.0L AWD
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) with optional towing package.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Rating:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger Rating:
5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 Stars
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side-curtain airbags (front and second row), Front seat-mounted side airbags, Pretensioners for front seat belts, Crumple zones, Side-impact door beams.
Infotainment Options:
Optional navigation system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Uconnect hands-free communication system with Bluetooth, Boston Acoustics premium audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Connectivity Features:
Uconnect system (Bluetooth for phone and audio streaming), Auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life spark plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for typical driving; consult manual for severe conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or API SP, Chrysler MS-6395 approved (Check owner's manual for specific requirements).
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) for 3.7L V6; 6.0 US quarts (5.7 Liters) for 4.0L V6.
Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (MS-9769).
Transmission Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 42RLE; ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent for NAG1 (check specific manual).
Common Issues:
Rattling noises from exhaust heat shields, potential for ABS sensor failures, occasional issues with power steering pump, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, some reports of fuel pump issues.
Brand Heritage Context:
Dodge, as a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing vehicles with bold styling and a focus on performance and utility. The Nitro aimed to continue this tradition in the SUV segment.
Model Introduction:
The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year as a redesigned and rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Aires platform, which was also used for the Jeep Liberty (KJ).
Production Location:
Graz, Austria (Magna Steyr plant, shared with Mitsubishi and Jeep Liberty).
Production Years:
2007-2011
