Positioning:
The 2006 Dodge LX platform vehicles (Charger, Magnum) represented Chrysler's foray into the modern rear-wheel-drive sedan and wagon market, targeting performance-oriented consumers and those seeking a more substantial American alternative to import rivals. The manual serves dedicated owners and professional technicians.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, and import sedans such as the Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima, and Pontiac Grand Prix (though the latter was FWD).
Vehicle Features Highlighted:
Rear-wheel-drive architecture, powerful V8 engine options, spacious interiors, retro-inspired styling cues (especially the Charger).
Covered Trims:
Charger, Magnum, Challenger, Chrysler 300, 300C
Estimated Pages:
~2000-3000+ (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF), potentially printed
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), Engine control systems (PCM, sensors, actuators), Fuel system (injection, pumps, lines), Exhaust system, Transmission (automatic, manual), Drivetrain (FWD, RWD, AWD variants)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brakes (ABS, traction control, parking brake), Wheels and tires
Body And Electrical:
Body structure, Exterior and interior trim, Climate control (HVAC), Audio systems, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts), Wiring diagrams (comprehensive), Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Body control modules (BCM)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes), Tune-up procedures, Belt and hose replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., spark plugs, ignition coils, injectors, water pump, thermostat), Transmission service and overhaul, Brake component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers), Suspension and steering component repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, HVAC system repair, Body panel repair and replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) lookup and interpretation, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Electrical circuit testing, Component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearance measurements, and procedural steps.
Digital Format Details:
Searchable PDF, high-resolution scans, bookmarked for easy navigation
Print Quality:
N/A (for digital), Professional quality for printed versions
Binding:
N/A (for digital), Coil-bound or perfect-bound for printed versions
Paper Type:
N/A (for digital), Durable, high-quality paper stock for printed versions
2.7L V6 (Eer):
Displacement: 2.7L (2736cc), Bore x Stroke: 86.0mm x 79.7mm, Compression Ratio: 9.7:1, Horsepower: ~190 hp @ 5800 rpm, Torque: ~190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm, Valvetrain: SOHC, 24 valves
3.5L V6 (Gema/Egd):
Displacement: 3.5L (3497cc), Bore x Stroke: 96.0mm x 81.0mm, Compression Ratio: 9.6:1, Horsepower: ~250 hp @ 6400 rpm, Torque: ~250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm, Valvetrain: SOHC, 24 valves
5.7L Hemi V8 (Ezh):
Displacement: 5.7L (5654cc), Bore x Stroke: 99.5mm x 90.9mm, Compression Ratio: 9.6:1, Horsepower: ~340 hp @ 5000 rpm, Torque: ~390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm, Valvetrain: OHV, 16 valves, Features: Multi-Displacement System (MDS)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended, higher for optimal performance with HEMI)
Transmission Options:
5-Speed Automatic (W5A580)
Transmission Options V8:
6-Speed Manual (T56 - Charger R/T, Magnum R/T)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, driver-selectable AutoStick (manual shifting capability)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 120 inches (3048 mm) - shared across LX platform
Length:
Varies by model: Charger (~197 in), Magnum (~199 in), Chrysler 300 (~196 in)
Width:
Varies by model: Charger (~74 in), Magnum (~74 in), Chrysler 300 (~75 in)
Height:
Varies by model: Charger (~58 in), Magnum (~58 in), Chrysler 300 (~59 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3800-4300 lbs (depending on engine and configuration)
Trunk Volume:
Charger: ~15.5 cu ft; Magnum: ~21.6 cu ft (rear seats up)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2006 Charger)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2006 Charger)
IIHS Front Offset Rating:
Good (2006 Charger)
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Passive Safety:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), Side curtain airbags (optional/standard by trim), Seat-mounted side airbags (optional/standard by trim), Crumple zones, Energy-absorbing steering column
Infotainment System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Boston Acoustics premium sound system, optional Navigation system, Uconnect hands-free communication (later availability or as an accessory upgrade).
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional), ParkSense Rear Park Assist System (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Accessory Uconnect modules for Bluetooth connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs recommended)
Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:
100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs recommended)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified (Chrysler MS-6395)
Engine Oil Capacity:
2.7L V6: 5.0 quarts; 3.5L V6: 5.0 quarts; 5.7L HEMI V8: 7.0 quarts (with filter change)
Transmission Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602)
Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) - Pink
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty power window regulators, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) issues.
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan, piston slap on early HEMI engines (though often cosmetic), potential intake manifold gasket leaks on V6 engines.
Common Issues Transmission:
Erratic shifting or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions, potential solenoid issues.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings due to vehicle weight and mileage.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing powerful, American-style vehicles, from muscle cars of the 60s and 70s to robust trucks and family sedans. The LX platform aimed to recapture some of that performance heritage.
Lx Platform Origin:
The LX platform was developed by DaimlerChrysler, leveraging Mercedes-Benz W211 E-Class (2002-2009) rear-wheel-drive architecture. This provided a robust and modern chassis for American brands.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Model Introduction Year:
Dodge Charger and Magnum introduced for the 2005 model year, following the Chrysler 300.
Ward Top 10 Engines:
The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine received multiple 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' awards for its combination of power, efficiency (via MDS), and distinctive character.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability varied by model year and powertrain, with early models showing some above-average issues, but improving in later years of the generation.
