🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Challenger

Year:

2012

Platform:

LX (updated from Chrysler LX platform)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners seeking dealership-level repair information.

Value Proposition:

Empowers users to perform maintenance, diagnosis, and repairs themselves, saving money and time compared to dealership labor rates.

Vs Generic Manuals:

Significantly superior due to vehicle-specific engineering data, diagrams, and procedures, unlike generic 'how-to' guides.

Data Accuracy:

Vehicle-specific and factory-generated, ensuring the highest level of accuracy for repairs.

Ease Of Use:

Single, searchable PDF format eliminates the need to flip through multiple physical books.

Visual Aids:

Includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics for clear understanding of complex systems.

Portability:

Printable pages allow users to take only necessary information to the garage or workspace.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive service and repair for all 2012 Dodge Challenger models and all repairs A-Z.

Specific Models Covered:

All trims and engine variants of the 2012 Dodge Challenger.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (as it's a complete factory service manual, typically 2000+ pages)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (electronic)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (all variants), Fuel System, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Clutch.

Drivetrain:

Transfer Case, Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle, Suspension, Tire & Wheel.

Chassis:

Brake Control, Brake Systems, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering.

Electrical Systems:

Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Locks, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel.

Body Interior:

Air Conditioning, Exterior & Interior, Engine Hood/Doors, Seats.

Diagnostic Procedures:

System diagnostics, fault code interpretation, troubleshooting guides.

Repair Procedures:

Complete step-by-step instructions for all repair and replacement operations.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.

Component Overhaul:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, differential rebuilds.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring schematics, circuit tracing, component testing.

Depth Of Coverage:

Factory-level detailed repair information, intended for dealership technicians.

Diagnostic Tools:

Implies use of factory diagnostic tools (e.g., DRB III or equivalent software) for advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac OS

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (or equivalent unzipping utility)

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing for enlarged image printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format, user prints on desired paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.6L Pentastar V6, 5.7L HEMI V8, 6.4L HEMI V8 (SRT8)

3.6L Pentastar V6:

Approx. 305 HP @ 6350 RPM, 268 lb-ft Torque @ 4800 RPM

5.7L Hemi V8:

Approx. 370 HP @ 5600 RPM, 395 lb-ft Torque @ 4000 RPM

6.4L Hemi V8 (Srt8):

Approx. 470 HP @ 6000 RPM, 470 lb-ft Torque @ 4600 RPM

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended for SRT models)

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT formulation (refer to manual for specific Mopar part number like 05050803AA or equivalent).

Oil Type 3.6L V6:

SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (MS-6395 certified, e.g., Mopar SAE 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil).

Oil Type 5.7L V8:

SAE 5W-20 Synthetic (MS-6395 certified, e.g., Mopar SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil).

Oil Type 6.4L V8:

SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (MS-10723 certified, e.g., Mopar SAE 0W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (Tremec TR-6060) for RWD models.

Optional Transmission:

5-speed automatic transmission (W5A580) for V6, 5-speed automatic (W5A580) or 6-speed automatic (8HP70) for V8 models.

Transmission Fluid V6 Auto:

ATF+4 (MS-9602 certified, e.g., Mopar ATF+4).

Transmission Fluid V8 Auto:

Refer to manual for specific fluid type; often ATF+4 or equivalent for earlier autos, potentially different for newer transmissions.

Clutch Fluid Manual:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 116.0 inches (2946 mm)

Length:

Approximately 197.7 inches (5022 mm)

Width:

Approximately 76.2 inches (1935 mm)

Height:

Approximately 57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Curb Weight V6:

Starting around 3,858 lbs (1750 kg)

Curb Weight 5.7L V8:

Starting around 4,079 lbs (1850 kg)

Curb Weight 6.4L V8 Srt8:

Starting around 4,144 lbs (1880 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

Approximately 16.2 cubic feet (458.7 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:

Likely 4 or 5 stars (depending on specific configurations tested by NHTSA for 2012 models). Refer to NHTSA for exact ratings.

Brake System:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (upgraded Brembo brakes on SRT models).

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with traction control.

Anti-Lock Brakes:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Airbags:

Standard front advanced multistage airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and supplemental side-curtain airbags for front and rear occupants.

Seat Belts:

All seating positions with 3-point seat belts. Pretensioners and load limiters on front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Uconnect system with available touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth, USB input, and satellite radio.

Audio System Options:

Standard 6-speaker audio, optional premium Boston Acoustics or Alpine audio systems.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth streaming audio, hands-free calling, USB connectivity for media playback and device charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 8,000 miles (12,875 km) or 6 months for synthetic oil, or as indicated by the oil change indicator system. Refer to manual for specifics based on driving conditions.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 6,000-8,000 miles (9,656-12,875 km) or as part of regular maintenance.

Brake Fluid Change:

Recommended every 2-3 years, or as needed based on inspection and fluid condition.

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (Mopar part number 05134003AB or equivalent).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid (refer to manual for specific Mopar part number).

Common V6 Issues:

Potential for oil cooler leaks, some electronic module glitches (covered by recalls/TSBs).

Common V8 Issues:

HEMI tick (lifter noise) can occur if oil is not maintained, potential for MDS (Multi-Displacement System) issues if not serviced correctly.

Suspension Components:

Some owners report premature wear on certain suspension components like ball joints or bushings, especially with aggressive driving.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of performance-oriented vehicles, often associated with muscle cars.

Challenger Reintroduction:

The 2008 model year marked the modern Challenger's return to production, drawing heavily from the iconic 1970 Challenger.

2012 Updates:

While not a full redesign, 2012 saw updates including the introduction of the 3.6L Pentastar V6 as the base engine and the 6.4L HEMI SRT8 model.

Manufacturing Location:

Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Awards General:

The Challenger platform (across various years) has received numerous awards for performance, styling, and value from automotive publications. Specific awards for the 2012 model should be verified through automotive news archives.