🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Challenger

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

LC

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

American Muscle Car, Performance Coupe

Key Competitors:

Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro (though the Challenger is on a different platform architecture than its historical predecessors and competitors of the era).

Design Philosophy:

Retro styling inspired by the classic 1970 Dodge Challenger, emphasis on V8 power and rear-wheel drive.

Platform Architecture:

Built on the Chrysler LX platform, shared with the Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, and Dodge Magnum. This provided a more refined and robust chassis compared to some previous iterations of muscle cars.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Engines Trims Transmissions:

true

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery system, ignition system, exhaust system, emission control systems.

Engine Management:

PCM diagnosis, sensor operation, actuator control, OBD-II diagnostics, troubleshooting charts.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearshift linkage, internal transmission components, maintenance, repair procedures for Getrag MT82 (if applicable).

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, electronic controls, shift solenoids, maintenance, repair procedures for 545RFE or W5A580 (if applicable).

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axles, CV joints, wheel bearings, U-joints.

Brakes:

Brake system hydraulics, ABS, ESP, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, sway bars), rear suspension (multi-link, coil springs, shocks), wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack, alignment procedures, troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors, comfort controls.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, trim, paint repair information.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, instrument cluster, HVAC system components, interior trim, sound insulation, airbags.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heating system, climate control, refrigerant recharge, component replacement.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system operation, SRS components, seat belt mechanisms, pre-tensioners.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake pad inspection.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault diagnosis.

Repair Procedures:

Component removal, installation, rebuilding, and replacement for all major systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II scanner usage, interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Specification Tables:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, component measurements.

Component Testing:

Testing procedures for sensors, actuators, electrical components, and mechanical parts.

Special Tools:

Identification of necessary special tools for specific repair procedures.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed steps for complete engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, component replacement, and reassembly for all engine variants.

Transmission Rebuild:

Comprehensive procedures for overhauling automatic and manual transmissions, including torque converter replacement, valve body service, and gear set replacement.

Body Panel Replacement:

Instructions for removing and installing fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid, and associated hardware.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Detailed guides for replacing control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, shocks, struts, and springs.

Brake System Overhaul:

Procedures for replacing brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS components, and bleeding the brake system.

Electrical Component Diagnosis:

In-depth troubleshooting for common electrical faults, including testing of various sensors, relays, and modules.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically searchable text-based PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-quality, suitable for printing individual pages or chapters.

Binding:

Not applicable (downloadable format)

Paper:

Not applicable (downloadable format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine:

3.5L SOHC V6 (EGW)

Base Engine Power:

250 hp @ 6400 rpm

Base Engine Torque:

250 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Performance Engine Option 1:

5.7L OHV V8 HEMI (MDH)

Performance Engine 1 Power:

370 hp @ 5600 rpm (with MDS), 372 hp (without MDS)

Performance Engine 1 Torque:

404 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (with MDS), 410 lb-ft (without MDS)

Performance Engine Option 2:

6.1L OHV V8 HEMI SRT (RDP)

Performance Engine 2 Power:

425 hp @ 6000 rpm

Performance Engine 2 Torque:

420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed automatic (545RFE or W5A580 depending on engine)

Optional Transmission V6:

4-speed automatic (42RLE) for 3.5L V6 models

Optional Transmission V8:

6-speed manual (Getrag MT82) for 5.7L HEMI models

Transmission Features V8:

MDS (Multi-Displacement System) on 5.7L HEMI for fuel economy.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 197.7 inches (4-door coupe styling)

Width:

Approx. 76.0 inches

Height:

Approx. 57.1 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 116.0 inches

Curb Weight V6:

Approx. 3,800 - 3,900 lbs

Curb Weight Hemi:

Approx. 4,100 - 4,200 lbs

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x115 mm

Tire Size Base:

225/60R18

Tire Size Hemi:

235/55R19 or 255/45R20

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (typical for this era and vehicle type)

IIHS Crash Test Ratings:

Generally good ratings in frontal and side impact tests, though specific ratings for '09 may vary.

Active Safety:

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

Passive Safety:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain airbags, front and rear crumple zones, high-strength steel frame.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Early:

Base models may have a standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional systems include Boston Acoustics premium audio, Uconnect hands-free communication (with Bluetooth), and navigation systems on higher trims.

Driver Assistance:

Primarily relied on active safety features like ESC and ABS. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were not common in this model year.

Connectivity Features:

Optional Uconnect system provided Bluetooth for phone calls. Auxiliary audio input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 6,000-8,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult the manual for precise intervals.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: 60,000-100,000 miles (check fluid condition). Manual: Inspect annually, replace as needed or per manual recommendation.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 3-5 years.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approximately 100,000 miles (Long Life Spark Plugs).

Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:

Approximately 100,000 miles (Long Life Spark Plugs, Iridium tipped).

Engine Oil V6:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or newer, Chrysler MS-6395 approved. Capacity: approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 L).

Engine Oil Hemi:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer, Chrysler MS-6395 approved. Capacity: approx. 7.0 quarts (6.6 L).

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 545RFE/W5A580. For 42RLE, use ATF+4. Check manual for exact specification.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for Getrag MT82.

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent HOAT coolant, typically purple. Capacity: approx. 11.0 - 12.0 quarts (10.4 - 11.4 L).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible.

Common Issues Hemi:

Lifter tick (especially on early 5.7L HEMIs), occasional issues with MDS solenoid failure, potential for carbon buildup on intake valves.

Common Issues Transmission:

Manual transmission (MT82) can be notchy or experience clutch issues. Automatic transmissions are generally robust but require proper fluid maintenance.

Common Issues Electrical:

Minor electrical gremlins can occur, such as window regulator issues or Uconnect system glitches (though Uconnect was less prevalent in early '09 models).

Common Issues Suspension:

Sway bar end links and bushings can wear over time, leading to clunking noises.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of performance and muscle cars dating back to the 1960s, with the Challenger being an iconic nameplate.

Challenger Evolution 2009:

The 2009 Challenger marked the revival of the nameplate after a significant hiatus, based on the modern LX platform, offering a blend of retro styling and contemporary engineering.

Production Location:

Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada

Production Years:

2008-2023 (for the third generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards General:

While not receiving specific major awards in its debut year that significantly altered its market position, the Challenger was generally praised for its styling and V8 performance, resonating well with its target demographic. Critical reception often focused on its faithful retro design and powerful engine options.