Market Position:
The Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 LX models of 2006 were positioned as stylish, rear-wheel-drive, mid-size sedans and wagons offering a blend of performance, comfort, and American muscle car heritage. They competed in a segment that included vehicles like the Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis, and to some extent, more premium European offerings.
Key Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, Buick LaCrosse. The HEMI-equipped models also competed against entry-level luxury sedans.
Unique Selling Points:
Rear-wheel-drive architecture, availability of powerful V8 HEMI engines, distinctive styling (especially the Magnum wagon), spacious interior, and a comfortable ride. The LX platform provided a robust foundation.
Powertrain Components:
Engine assembly (short block, long block, cylinder heads, blocks, crankshafts, pistons, connecting rods), Engine accessories (intake manifold, exhaust manifold, fuel injectors, throttle body, pumps, pulleys, belts, hoses), Cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan, hoses), Lubrication system (oil pan, oil pump, oil filter housing), Ignition system (spark plugs, coils), Fuel system (fuel pump, lines, filter, tank), Emissions control system (catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR valve).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission assemblies (e.g., NAG1 5-speed, 42RLE 4-speed), Torque converters, Driveshafts, Axles, Differentials, CV joints, Wheel bearings.
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bar, springs, shocks/struts), Rear suspension (multi-link design, control arms, bushings, sway bar, springs, shocks/struts), Steering system (steering rack, power steering pump, tie rods, steering column), Braking system (calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, ABS components, lines, hoses).
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring harnesses, Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights), Fuses, Relays, Battery, Alternator, Starter motor, Engine control modules (ECM), Powertrain control modules (PCM), Body control modules (BCM), Sensors (ABS, speed, etc.).
Body Exterior:
Body panels (fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers), Grilles, Mirrors, Door handles, Glass (windshield, side glass, rear glass), Seals, Body trim, Underbody components, Exterior lighting components.
Interior Appointments:
Seats, Upholstery, Dashboard, Instrument panel components, Center console, Door panels, Trim pieces, Seat belts, Airbag components, Climate control vents, Pedals, Floor mats.
Part Identification:
Detailed exploded diagrams of all vehicle systems with corresponding part numbers for accurate identification and ordering.
Assembly Disassembly Sequences:
Implicitly shown through exploded views, allowing users to understand the order of component installation and removal for efficient repairs.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive and highly detailed, focusing specifically on part numbers, interchangeability, and variations for all factory-installed components. Essential for accurate part sourcing and replacement.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
5-Star (2006 Dodge Magnum)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2006 Dodge Magnum)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-Star (2006 Dodge Magnum)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-Star (2006 Dodge Magnum)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good (2006 Chrysler 300)
IIHS Side Impact Score:
Good (2006 Chrysler 300)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - optional on some trims, standard on SRT8), Traction Control System (TCS).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Side curtain airbags (front and rear), Front seat-mounted side airbags, Pretensioners, Crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult owner's manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement 3.5L:
Approximately 100,000 miles (Long Life Spark Plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:
Approximately 100,000 miles (Long Life Spark Plugs).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer. HEMI engines may benefit from synthetic oil. Consult manual for exact viscosity and certifications.
Transmission Fluid Type 42Rle:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602).
Transmission Fluid Type Nag1:
MB-Approval 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 134, or equivalent).
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) - Pink or orange coolant. Meets MS-7176 specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (Mopar P/N 05010855AA or equivalent).
Common Issue Cv Joints:
Premature wear or failure of front CV joints, particularly on performance models or those driven hard.
Common Issue Suspension Bushings:
Wear in front and rear suspension bushings leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and premature tire wear.
Common Issue Interior Rattles:
Interior trim pieces, particularly around the dashboard and door panels, can develop rattles over time.
Common Issue Electronics Sensors:
Various electronic sensors (ABS, wheel speed, O2 sensors) can fail, leading to warning lights and performance issues.
Common Issue Power Steering Pump:
Leaking or noisy power steering pumps, particularly on the HEMI models.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles, muscle cars, and rugged trucks. The Magnum's return evoked the spirit of earlier Dodge station wagons with a sporting edge.
Magnum Evolution:
The 2006 Dodge Magnum was part of the first generation (2005-2008) of the reborn Magnum nameplate. It was based on the LX platform shared with the Chrysler 300 and was styled by DaimlerChrysler designers, featuring a distinctive wagon/hatchback body style.
300 Lx Evolution:
The Chrysler 300 LX, also launched in 2005, revived a classic nameplate with bold, retro-inspired styling. The LX designation typically referred to the base and mid-level trims, while higher trims like the 300C offered more premium features and powertrain options.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Production Years:
2005-2008 (for both Magnum and Chrysler 300 on LX platform)