Segment:
Full-size sedan, historically positioned as a sporty and powerful option in the American market.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, fleet maintenance, owners seeking in-depth knowledge.
Competitors 2005 2006:
Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, Buick Lucerne.
Design Philosophy:
Retro-inspired styling evoking the original Dodge Charger, rear-wheel-drive platform, powerful V8 engine options.
Value Proposition:
The 'real deal' for comprehensive DIY repair and maintenance, covering both mechanical and electrical aspects with visual aids.
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, driveline, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, audio, power accessories, diagnostics
Body And Interior:
Body panels, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, safety restraints
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
OBD-II, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, diagnostic procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, fuel pump, radiator, AC compressor
Electrical Repair:
Wiring harness repair, sensor replacement, module diagnostics and replacement
Bodywork:
Dent repair, panel replacement, glass replacement, rust repair
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagrams And Pictures:
Tons of detailed pictures and diagrams included for clear visualization of procedures.
Engine Option 1:
3.5L V6 (250 hp @ 6400 rpm, 250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm)
Engine Option 2:
5.7L HEMI V8 (340 hp @ 5000 rpm, 390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm - R/T model)
Engine Construction:
Iron block, aluminum heads (3.5L V6); Iron block, aluminum heads with HEMI technology (5.7L V8)
Horsepower Range:
250-340 hp
Torque Range:
250-390 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug
Transmission Option 1:
4-speed automatic (42RLE) for 3.5L V6
Transmission Option 2:
5-speed automatic (W5A580) for 5.7L HEMI V8
Transmission Features Hemi:
Multi-Displacement System (MDS) on 5.7L HEMI for improved fuel economy.
Atf 3.5L V6:
ATF+4 (Chrysler)
Atf 5.7L V8:
ATF+4 (Chrysler) or equivalent specified by Mercedes-Benz for W5A580
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2005 model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2005 model)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (2005 model)
Traction Control:
Standard on most trims
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on certain trims, especially R/T models
Airbags:
Front airbags, available side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point active front seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system available.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist (ParkSense) was an optional feature.
Phone Integration:
Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system available on later production models of this generation.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (often around 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace annually or as needed (often every 12,000-15,000 miles).
Spark Plugs 3.5L V6:
Platinum tipped, typically 100,000 miles.
Spark Plugs 5.7L Hemi:
Platinum tipped, typically 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil 3.5L V6:
SAE 5W-20 (API Service SG or higher)
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20 (API Service SN or higher)
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent (e.g., Peak Global Lifetime, Prestone AS200)
Common Issue 1:
Early models (including 2005-2006) could experience issues with the active headrests, particularly the pop-up mechanism.
Common Issue 2:
Water pump leaks on V8 HEMI engines were not uncommon.
Common Issue 3:
Transmission valve body issues in the 42RLE automatic could lead to harsh shifting or failure to engage gears.
Common Issue 4:
Interior trim rattles and creaks, especially on lower-trim models.
Common Issue 5:
Variable intake manifold actuator failure on the 3.5L V6 engine.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of performance-oriented vehicles, particularly muscle cars and powerful sedans.
Modern Charger Introduction:
The 2006 model marked the return of the Charger nameplate after a hiatus, as a rear-wheel-drive sedan on a new platform.
Lx Platform:
The LX platform was a significant shift, designed for rear-wheel-drive and shared with the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.
Assembly Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Car And Driver Best 10:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2006, highlighting its performance and value.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Not a Car of the Year winner for these specific model years, but was a significant contender in its segment.
