Segment:
Full-size sedan, RWD platform offering performance and comfort.
Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala (prior to SS), Buick Lucerne, Lincoln Town Car, Cadillac DTS.
Selling Points:
Powerful HEMI V8 options, distinctive retro-inspired styling, spacious interior, rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform repairs and maintenance efficiently, saving time and money.
Engine:
2.7L V6 (EER), 3.5L V6 (EGJ), 5.7L V8 HEMI (ESF), 6.1L V8 HEMI SRT (ESR), 6.4L V8 HEMI SRT (ESG - 2011 only)
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE), 5-Speed Automatic (W5A580 - Mercedes-Benz sourced)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Suspension:
Front: Independent Short-Long Arm (SLA) with coil springs over shocks. Rear: Independent Multi-Link with coil springs.
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated discs. Rear: Solid discs. ABS, EBD, Traction Control, Stability Control (ESP).
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power accessories, multiplexed communication systems (CAN bus).
Body And Chassis:
Frame construction, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, climate control, HVAC.
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, crumple zones, LATCH system.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid flushes (coolant, brake, transmission), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting flowcharts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with descriptions and repair strategies, component testing procedures.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine mechanical (timing, seals, gaskets), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Installation:
Component replacement (alternator, starter, water pump), accessory installation, wheel and tire mounting.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilding, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
2.7L V6:
SOHC, 190 hp @ 5000 rpm, 236 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. EER engine code.
3.5L V6:
SOHC, 250 hp @ 6400 rpm, 250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm. EGJ engine code.
5.7L V8 Hemi:
OHV, 340-370 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm, 390-410 lb-ft @ 4000-4400 rpm. MDS (Multi-Displacement System) featured. ESF engine code.
6.1L V8 Hemi Srt:
OHV, 425 hp @ 6000 rpm, 420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm. High-performance variant. ESR engine code.
6.4L V8 Hemi Srt (2011):
OHV, 470 hp @ 6000 rpm, 470 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm. SRT8 392. ESG engine code.
Horsepower Range:
190 hp to 470 hp
Torque Range:
236 lb-ft to 470 lb-ft
Type:
Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.
All Engines Prior 2008:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)
Higher Performance Engines:
5-Speed Automatic (W5A580) - Mercedes-Benz sourced, available on 5.7L HEMI and standard on SRT models.
Mds:
Multi-Displacement System on 5.7L HEMI to improve fuel economy by deactivating cylinders.
Autostick:
Manual shifting mode available on some automatic transmissions.
NHTSA:
Generally Good ratings in frontal and side impact tests for its era. Specific ratings vary by model year and testing protocols. Consult NHTSA.gov for specifics.
IIHS:
Good ratings in frontal and side impact tests for models equipped with side airbags and stability control. Consult IIHS.org for specifics.
Standard Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, optional side-curtain airbags, optional front-seat side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front seat pretensioners, height-adjustable shoulder belts, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Radio Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio availability. Upgraded Boston Acoustics or Kicker audio systems were optional.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims, often integrated into the infotainment display.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear park assist system.
Bluetooth:
Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system available on many models.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control and optional dual-zone automatic climate control.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions). Refer to manual for specific intervals based on oil quality (e.g., synthetic).
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed, depending on environment.
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or 5 years (depending on coolant type, typically HOAT).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic (depending on engine and climate). Refer to manual for exact specifications. Example: MS-6395 compliant.
Transmission Fluid:
42RLE: ATF+4 (MS-9602). W5A580: ATF 134 (MB-Approval 236.14) or equivalent.
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, often in orange or yellow color. Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Hemi Lifter Tick:
Some 5.7L HEMI engines can develop a ticking sound due to lifter issues or exhaust manifold leaks.
Transmission Harshness:
The 42RLE transmission can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting. Software updates or fluid changes might help.
Electrical Gremlins:
Minor electrical issues can occur, particularly with power accessories or instrument cluster components, often related to wiring or module failure.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links can experience wear over time, especially in performance models.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing powerful, American-style sedans and muscle cars.
Generation Lx:
The 2006-2011 Charger is the first generation of the modern Charger nameplate, built on the LX platform shared with Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum. It revived the iconic Charger name with a blend of retro styling and modern performance.
Facelifts Updates:
Received a significant facelift for the 2011 model year, with redesigned front and rear fascia, updated interior, and the introduction of the 6.4L HEMI SRT8 model.
Assembly Locations:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.
Initial Reception:
The LX platform Charger received positive reviews for its styling, spaciousness, and performance, especially the HEMI models.
Srt Performance:
SRT variants were recognized for their high-performance capabilities, often praised for track-day potential and straight-line acceleration.
