Years Covered:
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Trims Covered:
SE, SXT, RT, SRT8 (includes R/T Road & Track, R/T Classic, SRT8 Super Bee)
Platform:
Dodge LX Platform (Chrysler LX)
Chassis Code:
LD (though typically referred to as LX platform models)
Positioning:
The Dodge Charger (LX) represented a return to the Charger's performance-oriented roots, offering a blend of American muscle car styling with modern comfort and technology. It competed in the full-size sedan segment, appealing to buyers seeking rear-wheel drive performance, V8 power, and a distinctive design.
Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, Pontiac Grand Prix, Buick LaCrosse, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima.
Performance Options:
Available with multiple V6 and V8 HEMI engines, offering a range of power outputs. RWD and AWD options. Sport-tuned suspension on R/T and SRT8 models.
Design:
Iconic long hood, short deck styling reminiscent of classic muscle cars. Spacious interior with a focus on driver comfort and a performance-oriented cockpit.
Utility:
Full-size sedan practicality with a large trunk and comfortable seating for five adults.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (5-speed 545RFE, 4-speed 42RLE), rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive system, driveshafts, differentials, axles, CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (independent), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, sway bars, power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake fluid, brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, HVAC controls, climate control.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, chassis components, frame, rust proofing, sound deadening.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant, climate control modules, diagnostic procedures.
Restraints:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module, occupant classification system, diagnostic procedures.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad replacement.
Repair:
Engine repair (head gaskets, timing components), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair, interior component repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams for pinpoint testing, PCM/BCM programming and flashing procedures.
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation, torque specifications for all fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics. Includes detailed procedures for component testing and calibration.
Engine Options:
2.7L V6 (EER), 3.5L V6 (EGJ), 5.7L HEMI V8 (EZH), 6.1L HEMI V8 (ESG - SRT8).
2.7L V6:
Displacement: 2.7 L (165 cu in), Horsepower: ~178 hp, Torque: ~190 lb-ft, Fuel System: Multi-port Fuel Injection.
3.5L V6:
Displacement: 3.5 L (214 cu in), Horsepower: ~250 hp, Torque: ~250 lb-ft, Fuel System: Multi-port Fuel Injection.
5.7L Hemi V8:
Displacement: 5.7 L (345 cu in), Horsepower: ~340-370 hp (depending on year/trim), Torque: ~390-410 lb-ft (depending on year/trim), Fuel System: Multi-port Fuel Injection, MDS (Multi-Displacement System).
6.1L Hemi V8 (Srt8):
Displacement: 6.1 L (370 cu in), Horsepower: ~425 hp, Torque: ~420 lb-ft, Fuel System: Multi-port Fuel Injection, enhanced cooling.
Induction Type:
Naturally Aspirated (all models), Multi-displacement System (MDS) on 5.7L HEMI.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6/5.7L HEMI, 91 octane recommended for 6.1L HEMI).
Standard Transmission:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) with automatic transmission.
Optional Transmission:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system available on certain V6 models (e.g., SXT AWD) and optional on some 5.7L HEMI models.
Transmission Models:
42RLE (4-speed automatic, typically with 2.7L V6), 545RFE (5-speed automatic, typically with 3.5L V6 and 5.7L HEMI), NAG1 (5-speed automatic, sometimes used on specific AWD or performance variants).
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., ATF+4 or equivalent for 42RLE/545RFE, NAG1 may use different fluid). Check dipstick and service intervals.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for most configurations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for most configurations)
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (for most configurations)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, available side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Infotainment Systems:
Uconnect infotainment system (various iterations), AM/FM radio with CD player, optional navigation system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Uconnect Voice Command (available on higher trims).
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera, ParkSense Rear Park Assist (optional), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary input jack, USB port (on later models/packages), Bluetooth streaming and hands-free calling (Uconnect).
Comfort Features:
Power adjustable pedals, heated seats (front and rear), power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or as indicated by the Oil Change Indicator System).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.7L V6: ~100,000 miles; 3.5L V6: ~100,000 miles; 5.7L HEMI: ~100,000 miles (with special long-life plugs); 6.1L HEMI: ~100,000 miles (with special plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles or 5 years (depending on coolant type specified in manual).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 (for 5.7L HEMI, 3.5L V6, 2.7L V6); SAE 5W-30 (for 6.1L HEMI SRT8). Refer to manual for exact specification and API service classification.
Engine Coolant:
Chrysler/Dodge approved HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically orange or pink in color. Mopar OAT or equivalent. Check capacity in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on vehicle build date and specific system requirements. Check reservoir cap.
Hemi Tick:
Some HEMI engines can develop a 'tick' noise from the valvetrain due to lifter or pushrod issues, often related to oil viscosity or wear. The manual covers diagnosis and repair of these. Specifically, lifter failure or camshaft wear can cause this.
Transmission Issues:
Early models or high-mileage vehicles might experience delayed shifting or transmission slippage. The manual details diagnostic procedures for the 42RLE and 545RFE transmissions, including solenoid pack replacement or torque converter issues.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension components like ball joints and tie rods can wear over time, leading to clunks or steering looseness. The manual provides replacement procedures and alignment specifications.
Interior Rattles:
Various interior trim pieces can develop rattles. The manual can help identify common areas and provide access procedures for tightening or applying sound deadening.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, minor electrical issues can arise. The detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are crucial for diagnosing issues with modules (BCM, PCM), sensors, or power distribution.
Brand Focus:
Dodge has a long heritage of producing powerful, American muscle cars and performance vehicles.
Lx Platform Debut:
The LX platform was an evolution of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class platform (W211), providing a robust rear-wheel-drive architecture for Dodge and Chrysler vehicles.
Charger Rebirth:
The 2006 Charger marked the return of the Charger nameplate after a hiatus, reimagining it as a four-door sedan with strong styling cues from its two-door predecessors.
Performance Tiers:
The lineup evolved to offer distinct performance tiers: the base V6 models (SE/SXT), the V8 HEMI R/T models (including performance packages like Road & Track), and the high-performance SRT8 variants.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.
