Positioning:
Full-size rear-wheel-drive sedan, targeting a blend of performance, comfort, and American muscle heritage.
Competitors 2005 2006:
Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, Buick LaCrosse, Pontiac Grand Prix.
Design Philosophy:
Retro-inspired styling harkening back to the classic Dodge Charger, with a modern platform.
Platform:
Chrysler LX platform, shared with Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing, fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (W5A580/NAG1, 42RLE) overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Axles, driveshafts, differentials, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, column
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, chassis repair, corrosion prevention
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control systems
Interior:
Seats, upholstery, dashboard, trim panels, airbags
Emissions Control:
EVAP system, catalytic converters, O2 sensors, diagnosis
Diagnostics:
OBD-II codes, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, tire rotation
Component Replacement:
Engine components, transmission components, suspension parts, brake assemblies, electrical modules
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for repairing or rebuilding major vehicle systems
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment angles
Depth:
Professional-grade, suitable for dealership technicians and advanced DIYers
Diagnostic Tools:
Information often includes references to specific diagnostic scan tools and procedures
Base Engine:
3.5L (3497cc) SOHC V6 (High Output)
Base Engine Power:
250 hp @ 6400 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Optional Engine 2005 2006
Performance Engine:
5.7L (5654cc) OHV HEMI V8
Performance Engine Power:
340 hp @ 5000 rpm (2005), 350 hp @ 5000 rpm (2006)
Performance Engine Torque:
390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (2005), 390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (2006)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (3.5L V6), 89 Octane Recommended (5.7L HEMI V8 for optimal performance)
ECM Type:
Chrysler NGC (Next Generation Controller)
Standard 2005 2006:
4-speed automatic (42RLE) - for 3.5L V6
Optional 2005 2006:
5-speed automatic (W5A580/NAG1) - for 5.7L HEMI V8
Hemi Transmission Feature:
MDS (Multi-Displacement System) on 5.7L HEMI, deactivates four cylinders during cruising.
42Rle Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar Part # 05013457GA)
W5A580 Fluid:
MB 236.10 specification ATF (e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Pentosin ATF1)
Wheelbase:
120.0 inches (3048 mm)
Length:
197.7 inches (5022 mm)
Width:
74.1 inches (1882 mm)
Height:
58.2 inches (1478 mm)
Curb Weight V6:
Approx. 3,800 - 3,900 lbs (1724 - 1769 kg)
Curb Weight Hemi:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,100 lbs (1814 - 1860 kg)
Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:
5x115 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
17-inch (various styles)
Optional Wheel Size:
18-inch, 20-inch (SRT8 model, introduced later but relevant for context)
Standard Tire Size:
P215/65R17 (V6), P225/60R18 (HEMI)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (2005/2006)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2005/2006)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-Star (2005/2006)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star (2005/2006)
IIHS Front Offset Good:
Good (2005/2006)
IIHS Side Impact Acceptable:
Acceptable (2005/2006)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) - standard on Hemi models from 2006.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) or 3-5 years, depending on coolant type. OAT coolant typically lasts longer.
Engine Oil 3.5L:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or newer (Mopar Part # 68001334AB)
Engine Oil 5.7L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer (Mopar Part # 68169272AA)
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) HOAT (Hybrid OAT) Coolant - P-HOAT (Mopar Part # 05103530AA is typically blue, but confirm correct type for the year).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific model recommendation)
Hemi Lifter Tick:
Some 5.7L HEMI engines can develop a 'lifter tick' noise, often attributed to lifter design or oil pressure issues. The manual would detail diagnostic steps.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional reports of issues with the 42RLE transmission related to shifting and torque converter clutch control. The 5-speed NAG1 is generally robust but requires correct fluid.
Suspension Wear:
Like many vehicles of this era and size, front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings) can wear over time.
Electrical Gremlins:
Minor electrical issues can occur, such as window regulators, interior lighting, or HVAC blower motor issues, which the detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are essential for diagnosing.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of performance and distinctive American styling, often associated with muscle cars.
Charger Legacy:
The Charger nameplate dates back to the 1960s and is iconic in automotive history, representing performance and street credibility.
Lx Platform Introduction:
The 2005 model year marked the reintroduction of the Charger nameplate after a hiatus, on the rear-wheel-drive LX platform, previously used for sedans and wagons (like the Dodge Magnum).
Assembly Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Sales Impact 2005 2006:
The Charger was a significant sales success, particularly the V8 Hemi models, revitalizing Dodge's sedan offerings and appealing to a broad demographic.