Segment:
Mid-size/Full-size Station Wagon (Sport Wagon)
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking practicality with performance and style
Competitors:
Subaru Outback, Ford Freestyle, Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon (niche competitors)
Design:
Distinctive American wagon styling, rear-wheel-drive bias, spacious interior
Performance Orientation:
Available HEMI V8 engine, RWD platform, sport-tuned suspension options
Versatility:
Practical cargo space combined with car-like driving dynamics
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul for all included engine variants
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission repair, differential, driveshaft, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering system components, alignment specifications
Brakes:
ABS, brake system diagnostics, component replacement, fluid specifications
Electrical Systems:
Charging system, starting system, battery, lighting, horn, instrument panel, power distribution
Body Chassis:
Frame, bumpers, doors, panels, glass, seals, interior trim
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics and repair
Interior Systems:
Power seats, power windows, power mirrors, power locks, seat belts, airbags, interior lighting, chimes
Comfort Convenience:
Speed control system, audio systems, overhead console systems
Safety Security:
Passive restraint systems (airbags), vehicle theft/security systems
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic strategies
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements
Repair:
Component replacement, assembly/disassembly of all major systems
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations, symptom-based diagnostics
Rebuilding:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Installation:
Installation procedures for various components and systems
Depth:
Factory level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Accuracy:
Official dealer workshop data
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive torque specifications for all fasteners
Fluid Capacities:
Precise fluid capacities for all reservoirs
Diagrams:
Step-by-step illustrations and diagrams for procedures
Engine Option 1:
3.5L SOHC V6 (GEMA EGG)
Engine Option 2:
5.7L OHV V8 HEMI (EGD)
3.5L V6 Horsepower:
250 hp @ 6400 rpm
3.5L V6 Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
5.7L Hemi Horsepower:
340 hp @ 5000 rpm
5.7L Hemi Torque:
390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Regular (87 octane) for 3.5L; Unleaded Premium (91 octane) recommended for 5.7L HEMI for optimal performance
ECM:
NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar Chrysler ECM
Emission Systems:
Catalytic converters, O2 sensors, EGR (if applicable), evaporative emission control
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (IIHS ratings often more detailed for this era)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Rollover:
4-star (NHTSA rating)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard (Traction Control - TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (Electronic Stability Program - ESP, or similar)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), available side curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners
Audio System:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, Boston Acoustics premium audio system, Sirius Satellite Radio.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard Speed Control System.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear park assist system.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack.
Remote Start:
Optional remote start system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months with synthetic blend oil (refer to manual for exact spec)
Engine Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plugs V6:
100,000 miles (Long Life Spark Plugs)
Spark Plugs V8:
100,000 miles (Long Life Spark Plugs)
Engine Oil 3.5L:
SAE 5W-20 (Synthetic or Synthetic Blend recommended)
Engine Oil 5.7L:
SAE 5W-20 (Synthetic or Synthetic Blend recommended for HEMI)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant (Chrysler Specification MS-9769)
Common Problems:
Power steering pump leaks, transmission solenoid issues (especially W5A580), catalytic converter failures, exhaust manifold cracks (HEMI), water pump leaks, minor electrical gremlins.
Maintenance Notes:
Regularly check fluid levels, especially transmission fluid and power steering fluid. Address any unusual noises promptly.
Manufacturer:
Dodge (a division of Chrysler LLC at the time)
Introduction Year:
2004 (for the 2005 model year)
Design Basis:
Based on the Chrysler LX platform, sharing components with the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger
Discontinuation:
Production ended after the 2008 model year
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Safety Awards:
Achieved good safety ratings in IIHS and NHTSA crash tests, but specific 'awards' are less common for this model.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Variable, often rated average to below average for reliability, especially in later years.
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA emission standards for the model year.