Positioning:
The Dodge Magnum LX of 2006 was a niche offering in the North American market, marketed as a sporty and versatile rear-wheel-drive wagon/hatchback, bridging the gap between traditional sedans and SUVs.
Competitors:
Competed with performance-oriented wagons and larger sedans, though its unique styling and RWD platform set it apart. Key competitors could be considered the Subaru Outback (though AWD focused), some European performance wagons, and larger American sedans.
Features:
Rear-wheel drive platform, available V6 and V8 engines, spacious interior, distinctive styling, practical cargo space.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), driveline, transfer case (if applicable).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instruments, gauges, body electrical (power windows, locks, mirrors), HVAC controls, infotainment, safety systems (airbags, seat belts).
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, liftgate, glass, bumpers.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, rebuilding procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, fault code identification and resolution, wiring diagrams.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and in-depth diagnostics. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and alignment procedures.
Engine Type:
3.5L V6 SOHC
Engine Code:
EGG (typically)
Displacement:
3497 cc (213 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Horsepower:
250 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Optional Engine Type:
5.7L V8 HEMI MDS OHV
Optional Engine Code:
EZH (typically)
Optional Horsepower:
340 hp @ 5000 rpm
Optional Torque:
390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum recommended for V6), 91 octane (recommended for V8)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS) with individual coil-on-plug ignition.
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (42RLE)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (W5A580 - for V8 models)
Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up, selectable manual shift mode (AutoStick).
Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.5 quarts (9.0 L) for the 42RLE, 10.5 quarts (10.0 L) for the W5A580 (dry fill). Check manual for accurate drained and refilled capacity.
Length:
195.1 inches (4955 mm)
Width:
73.1 inches (1857 mm)
Height:
58.4 inches (1483 mm)
Wheelbase:
116.0 inches (2946 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 101 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approximately 27 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approximately 67 cubic feet
Curb Weight Approx:
3700 - 4100 lbs (1678 - 1860 kg) depending on engine and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically around 5000 lbs (2268 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (for models tested)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP - optional or standard on some trims).
Passive Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), side-curtain airbags (optional), front seat-mounted side airbags (optional), three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Infotainment System:
Boston Acoustics premium audio system (optional), Uconnect Hands-Free Communication (optional, depending on build date and package), AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, Sirius Satellite Radio (optional).
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Connectivity Options:
Uconnect Bluetooth system allowed hands-free calling and voice commands for compatible phones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years (OAT coolant).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles or as per severe service schedule. Check manual for exact interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.5L V6: 100,000 miles. 5.7L V8 HEMI: 100,000 miles (with Multi-Displacement System).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified (meeting Chrysler MS-6395).
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.5L V6: 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter. 5.7L V8 HEMI: 7.0 quarts (6.6 L) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant, typically HOAT type, P/N 05103539AA or equivalent. Color is often orange/pink.
Common Problems:
Front suspension component wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), occasional ABS/ESP sensor issues, potential for oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan, exhaust manifold leaks (especially on V8), early transmission issues on some units (though generally robust).
Heritage:
Dodge, an American brand with a long history of performance and muscle cars, introduced the Magnum as a revival of the nameplate, leveraging its performance heritage with a modern, versatile platform.
Evolution:
The 2006 Magnum was part of the first generation, introduced in 2005 as a successor to the Dodge Intrepid, offering a distinct wagon/hatchback body style on the rear-wheel-drive LX platform shared with the Charger and 300C. It received minor updates and powertrain variations throughout its short production run.
Production Years:
2005-2008
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.