Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Performance Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance car owners, professional mechanics
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet SS, Ford Taurus SHO, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class (performance variants)
Powertrain Highlight:
Powerful 6.1L HEMI V8 engine
Handling Enhancements:
Performance-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes
Design Emphasis:
Aggressive styling, spacious interior
Diagnostic Capability:
Enables in-depth troubleshooting and repair beyond basic maintenance
Cost Savings:
Empowers owners to perform repairs, reducing dealership service costs
Powertrain:
Engine (HEMI 6.1L), Transmission (5-speed Auto NAG1), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (performance tuned), Steering, Brakes (performance Brembo), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Diagnosis & Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass & Seals, Structural Components
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC System, Power Seats, Power Windows, Door Locks, Remote Entry
Maintenance:
Fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, basic inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments
Overhaul:
Engine rebuilding, transmission repair, differential service
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Diagnostic Tools:
Emphasis on using scan tools (e.g., DRB III or equivalent), multimeter, specialized diagnostic equipment
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for major component rebuilds
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of manufacturer-specific or recommended special tools
Troubleshooting Charts:
Flowcharts and symptom-based tables to aid in diagnosing issues
Engine Code:
ESF (6.1L SRT HEMI V8)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
6.1 Liters (370 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
4.06 in x 3.58 in (103 mm x 91 mm)
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder, Pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
425 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
Refer to manual for specific PSI requirements (typically 58 PSI for this era)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze
Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (Meets Chrysler MS-A0991 specification)
Oil Capacity:
7.0 Quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (Mercedes-Benz NAG1 / W5A580)
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 3.58:1, 2.20:1, 1.56:1, 1.00:1, 0.77:1)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Refer to manual for capacity (typically 9-10 quarts for a complete fluid change)
Shift Modes:
AutoStick (Manual shifting capability)
Final Drive Ratio:
3.06:1
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:
5-Star (2006-2007 models)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:
5-Star (2006-2007 models)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Standard (Traction Control System - TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard (Electronic Stability Program - ESP)
Airbags Front:
Standard (Advanced Multistage Front Airbags)
Airbags Side:
Standard (Front Side Curtain Airbags, Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point active seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Available Boston Acoustics premium audio system; MyGIG infotainment system optional on later models.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system.
Parking Assist:
Optional Rear Park Assist system.
Bluetooth:
Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km) or under severe driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
First change at 60,000 miles (100,000 km) or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles (50,000 km) or 3 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type (likely ATF+4 or a dedicated power steering fluid)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, refer to manual for precise specification.
Valve Springs:
Some early 6.1L HEMI engines experienced issues with valve springs causing misfires or rough running. (Manual will detail inspection and replacement).
Transmission Harshness:
The NAG1 transmission can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting. Software updates or solenoid issues are common causes. (Manual will guide diagnostics).
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, minor electrical issues can arise. Detailed wiring diagrams in the manual are crucial for diagnosis.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles, dating back to muscle car era.
Lx Platform Introduction:
The LX platform, shared with Mercedes-Benz E-Class, debuted in 2005 with the Dodge Magnum and Charger.
Srt8 Introduction:
The SRT8 variant was introduced for the 2005 model year for the 300C and Charger, targeting the performance sedan market.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Production Years Overall Charger:
2006-2010 for this generation
