Market Position:
The Chrysler Aspen was a full-size luxury SUV positioned to compete with established domestic and international rivals, offering a spacious interior, powerful V8 engine options, and available all-wheel drive. It targeted families and individuals seeking comfort, capability, and a premium experience.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade, Toyota Sequoia, and Nissan Armada during its production run. The Aspen aimed to differentiate itself through distinctive styling, a comfortable ride, and the inclusion of Chrysler's signature HEMI V8 engine.
Key Features:
Available 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, luxurious interior appointments, optional Stow 'n Go seating (in earlier models/related platforms, though less prominent in Aspen), rear-seat entertainment systems, navigation, advanced safety features, and a robust towing capacity.
Coverage Areas:
Complete mechanical, electrical, body, and chassis systems. Includes diagnostic procedures, repair instructions, and maintenance schedules for all components and sub-systems.
Page Count:
Approximately 1,800+
Manual Type:
Factory Authorized Repair Service Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine (including 4.7L V8, 5.7L HEMI V8), Transmission (545RFE 5-speed automatic), Drivetrain (4WD/AWD systems), Brakes (ABS, EBD, traction control), Suspension (front and rear independent), Steering, HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including body control module, powertrain control module), Interior/Exterior Lighting, Body & Frame, Restraint Systems (Airbags), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, detailed disassembly and reassembly of all mechanical and electrical components, troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, component locations, specifications for torque, clearances, and adjustments, body repair, and specialized tool usage.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body panel replacement. Includes factory procedures for diagnostics and repair.
Primary Engine:
4.7L SOHC V8 (PowerTech)
4.7L V8 Horsepower:
303 hp @ 5650 rpm
4.7L V8 Torque:
327 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:
345 hp @ 5000 rpm (varies by year/tuning)
5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:
375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies by year/tuning)
Fuel System:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPI)
Engine Management System:
Chrysler's enhanced Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with integrated diagnostics.
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Transmission Standard:
5-speed automatic (545RFE)
Transmission Optional:
Not applicable, 545RFE was standard for both engines.
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled with overdrive, torque converter clutch, AutoStick manual shifting capability.
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 11.7 quarts (11.1 liters) total capacity, dry fill.
Wheelbase:
120.0 inches (3,048 mm)
Length:
200.8 inches (5,100 mm)
Width:
79.1 inches (2,009 mm)
Height:
72.5 inches (1,842 mm)
Seating Capacity:
7-passenger
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
16.0 cubic feet (453 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
43.1 cubic feet (1,220 liters)
Cargo Volume Max:
98.3 cubic feet (2,783 liters)
Curb Weight Approx:
5,100 - 5,300 lbs (2,313 - 2,404 kg)
Towing Capacity Max:
7,300 lbs (3,311 kg)
Payload Capacity Max:
Approx. 1,350 lbs (612 kg)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (Varies by model year and specific test conditions)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (available).
Passive Safety Features:
Front advanced multi-stage airbags, Supplemental side-curtain airbags (all rows), front seat-mounted side airbags, energy-absorbing steering column, crumple zones, side-impact door beams, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Chrysler's MyGIG infotainment system (optional), featuring AM/FM radio, CD player, DVD audio, MP3 playback, available SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and optional navigation system. Hard drive for music storage.
Display Screen:
Available 6.5-inch touchscreen display.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking assist sensors, ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional).
Connectivity Options:
Available Bluetooth hands-free calling (Uconnect), auxiliary audio input jack.
Comfort Convenience Features:
Power adjustable pedals, power liftgate, remote keyless entry, remote start, heated front and second-row seats (optional), power sunroof (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for specific recommendations (e.g., severe vs. normal duty).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as per tire manufacturer recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as per severe service schedule, particularly for towing or heavy use.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
4.7L V8: ~100,000 miles; 5.7L HEMI V8: ~100,000 miles (using recommended iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20 (for both 4.7L and 5.7L HEMI V8 engines), API certified. Check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate.
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a pink or orange color, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Equivalent to Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4.
Known Issues:
Potential for early transmission wear (especially if not maintained), occasional issues with power window regulators, HVAC blower motor failures, and minor electrical gremlins. Some reports of water pump leaks or alternator failures. HEMI engines may exhibit lifter tick if oil maintenance is neglected.
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler, a historic American automotive manufacturer, has a long lineage of producing versatile and often luxurious vehicles, including iconic sedans, minivans, and trucks. The Aspen was part of Chrysler's expansion into the SUV market during a period of significant platform sharing within the DaimlerChrysler era.
Model Evolution:
The Chrysler Aspen was introduced for the 2007 model year as a new entrant in the large luxury SUV segment. It shared its platform with the Dodge Durango, utilizing Chrysler's 'JC' platform. It was produced for only three model years (2007-2009) before being discontinued due to market shifts and the company's strategic refocusing.
Production Years:
2007, 2008, 2009
Production Location:
Newark, New Jersey, USA (at the Newark Assembly Plant)
Recognitions:
While the Aspen itself did not garner numerous specific awards, it was part of a segment that consistently saw vehicles recognized for family hauling, towing capability, and overall value. Its HEMI engine was frequently praised for its power and refinement in automotive reviews.
Ratings:
Consumer satisfaction ratings varied by year and publication, often reflecting a typical mix for large SUVs of that era, balancing comfort and capability with fuel economy concerns.
