Segment:
Mid-size station wagon, offering a unique blend of sportiness and practicality in its segment.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Subaru Outback, Audi A6 Allroad, and larger sedans/SUVs of its era.
Design:
Distinctive styling, rear-wheel-drive bias (with AWD options), spacious interior, and powerful engine choices.
Target Audience:
Families seeking practicality with a desire for a more engaging driving experience and distinctive styling.
Engine:
Complete engine diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all applicable engine variants.
Transmission:
Detailed coverage of automatic transmission (e.g., 5-45RFE) operation, diagnostics, overhaul, and fluid service.
Brakes:
Comprehensive information on hydraulic brake systems, ABS, traction control, brake rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component identification, troubleshooting, replacement of struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, and steering components.
Electrical:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures for body control modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), lighting, power accessories, and instrument cluster.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system operation, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core service, and climate control system diagnostics.
Body And Trim:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim component service, glass replacement, and door/window mechanism repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, filter, injector diagnostics and replacement, fuel pressure testing, and evaporative emission (EVAP) system troubleshooting.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and oxygen sensor replacement and repair.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and cooling fan diagnostics and replacement.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and intermittent issues.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, sensor data analysis, and actuator testing.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners across various systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Code:
2.7L V6 (ECL/EDG)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5800 rpm (estimated)
Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (estimated)
Engine Option 2 Code:
3.5L V6 (EGG/EGQ - High Output)
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
3518 cc
Engine Option 2 Configuration:
SOHC V6
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
250 hp @ 6400 rpm (estimated)
Engine Option 2 Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (estimated)
Engine Option 3 Code:
5.7L V8 HEMI (EWS)
Engine Option 3 Displacement:
5654 cc
Engine Option 3 Configuration:
OHV V8 (HEMI)
Engine Option 3 Horsepower:
340 hp @ 5000 rpm (estimated)
Engine Option 3 Torque:
390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (estimated)
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
NHTSA Front Impact:
Five-star rating for driver and front passenger in frontal crash tests (for applicable models).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good rating in side impact tests (for applicable models).
Traction Control:
Standard on most models, enhances grip during acceleration.
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on certain trims, aids in maintaining vehicle control during critical maneuvers.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS for improved steering control during hard braking.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-curtain airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags available/standard depending on trim level.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles. Refer to manual for exact interval and procedure.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years. Check manual for coolant type and interval.
Engine Oil Type 2.7L:
SAE 3.90W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic recommended. Verify with manual for exact specification (e.g., MS-6395).
Engine Oil Type 3.5L:
SAE 3.90W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic recommended. Verify with manual for exact specification (e.g., MS-6395).
Engine Oil Type 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20 Synthetic recommended. Verify with manual for exact specification (e.g., MS-6395).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Consult manual for precise specification.
Suspension Components:
Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends) can experience wear leading to clunking noises and alignment issues.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket leaks can occur over time.
Transmission Performance:
Some owners report occasional harsh shifting or slipping in the automatic transmission, particularly with higher mileage.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, intermittent electrical issues related to body control modules or sensors can occur.
Brand:
Dodge, an American automotive brand with a long history of performance and muscle cars, as well as practical family vehicles.
Platform:
Built on Chrysler's LX platform, shared with the Charger sedan and 300 sedan.
Design Philosophy:
Reintroduced the station wagon body style to the Dodge lineup with a distinctly American, muscular design language, moving away from traditional European-influenced wagon designs.
Production Years:
2004-2008
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada