🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Charger

Year:

2005

Platform:

LX

Chassis Code:

LC

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Sedan

Target Audience:

Designed as a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) performance-oriented sedan, often appealing to those seeking a blend of American muscle car heritage with modern sedan practicality.

Key Competitors:

Ford Five Hundred/Taurus, Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima.

Design Philosophy:

Retro-inspired styling referencing classic Dodge Chargers, spacious interior, robust RWD platform.

Powertrain Options:

Available with a 3.5L V6 and a more potent 5.7L HEMI V8, emphasizing performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Dodge Charger LX

Model Years Covered:

2005

Estimated Pages:

Over 2000 (Typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (3.5L V6, 5.7L HEMI V8), Transmission (5-Speed Automatic W5A580, 4-Speed Automatic 42LE), Drivetrain (RWD)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front Independent Short/Long Arm, Rear Multi-Link), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front/Rear Disc, ABS)

Electrical:

Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Engine Repair:

Engine diagnostics, cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing service, camshaft and valve train service.

Transmission Repair:

Transmission fluid and filter changes, torque converter replacement, transmission removal and installation, internal transmission component service.

Brake System:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line and hose replacement, ABS system diagnostics and repair.

Suspension And Steering:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack service.

Electrical System Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common electrical faults, wiring diagram interpretation, component testing (sensors, actuators, modules).

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant recharging, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core).

Body And Interior:

Door mechanism repair, window regulator replacement, interior trim panel removal and installation, seat repair.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):

Identification and interpretation of DTCs, diagnostic flowcharts for specific symptoms.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if properly indexed, allowing quick access to specific topics.

Quality:

Digital - High resolution, ensuring legibility of diagrams and text.

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EGG (3.5L SOHC V6)

Displacement 1:

3.5 Liters (215 cu. in.)

Horsepower 1:

250 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque 1:

250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Engine Code 2:

EHD (5.7L OHV HEMI V8)

Displacement 2:

5.7 Liters (345 cu. in.)

Horsepower 2:

340 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque 2:

390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Valvetrain:

SOHC (3.5L V6), OHV with HEMI-head design (5.7L V8)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for HEMI)

Cylinder Block Material:

Aluminum (3.5L V6), Cast Iron (5.7L V8)

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

Emission Controls:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors (O2S), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system (where applicable).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (W5A580)

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (42LE) - Primarily for 3.5L V6 models in some configurations.

Drive Type:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Refer to manual for specific part numbers and fluid types).

Manual Shift Mode:

Autostick (on 5-speed automatic), allowing manual gear selection.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 199.1 inches

Width:

Approx. 74.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 58.4 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 120.0 inches

Front Track:

Approx. 63.0 inches

Rear Track:

Approx. 63.1 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.5 inches

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 104.4 cu. ft.

Front Headroom:

Approx. 39.5 inches

Front Legroom:

Approx. 41.8 inches

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 38.0 inches

Rear Legroom:

Approx. 36.7 inches

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 16.0 cu. ft.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3800 - 4100 lbs (Varies by engine and trim)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Refer to vehicle's VIN plate for specific GVWR.

Towing Capacity:

Not typically rated for towing in this configuration.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 115 mm

Recommended Tire Size:

215/65R17 (Base), 225/60R18 (Optional), 235/55R19 (Optional)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (Driver and Passenger) - 2005 Model Year

NHTSA Side Impact:

Good (Front and Rear Passengers) - 2005 Model Year

IIHS Head Restraints And Seats:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - Often bundled with higher trims or optional packages.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, available front side-impact airbags, available full-length side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speakers. Optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system, Uconnect hands-free communication, and Sirius Satellite Radio.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Bluetooth:

Available via the Uconnect system.

Usb Ports:

Not standard on 2005 models; may be added aftermarket.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on oil type).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.5L:

Approximately every 100,000 miles (if using long-life spark plugs).

Spark Plug Replacement 5.7L Hemi:

Approximately every 100,000 miles (if using long-life spark plugs).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and manufacturer recommendations (ATF+4 is typically a 'lifetime' fluid for less demanding use but regular changes are advisable).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Engine Oil 3.5L V6:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Certified).

Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi V8:

SAE 5W-20 (API Certified).

Coolant:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 50/50 Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue).

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.

Heat Issues:

Some HEMI engines can experience exhaust manifold heat issues or cylinder head bolt issues (though less common in early years than later ones). The manual would detail inspection and repair procedures.

Transmission Performance:

Occasional reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement, particularly with the 5-speed automatic. Fluid changes and software updates are often cited as remedies.

Suspension Components:

Wear on ball joints, control arm bushings, and sway bar links can occur with mileage, leading to clunks or poor handling. The manual provides replacement instructions.

Electrical Gremlins:

Like many vehicles of this era, some owners report minor electrical issues, such as sensor failures or module glitches. The manual's diagnostic sections are crucial here.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history associated with performance and distinctive styling, particularly with the Charger nameplate dating back to the 1960s muscle car era.

Lx Platform Introduction:

The 2005 Charger marked a significant revival of the Charger nameplate, this time on the new LX platform (shared with Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum), moving from a 2-door muscle car to a 4-door performance sedan.

Design Influences:

The design drew inspiration from classic Chargers, featuring a prominent grille, muscular lines, and a bold stance.

Assembly Location:

Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.

Production Run:

The second generation Charger (LX) production began in 2005 for the 2006 model year, with the 2005 model year representing the initial launch.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Esurance Safest Sedans:

The Charger LX was recognized by Esurance for its safety performance in some categories for its model year, reflecting its Good ratings in NHTSA crash tests.

Automotive Press Reviews:

Received positive reviews from automotive journalists for its powerful engine options, distinctive styling, and comfortable ride, particularly the HEMI variants.