🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Nitro

Product Name:

DODGE NITRO 2007-2009 Factory Repair Service Workshop Manual

Model Years Covered:

2007, 2008, 2009

Market Focus:

US/Canada Models

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Brand Strategy:

Dodge Nitro targeted a more aggressive, lifestyle-oriented market within the compact SUV segment, often competing with vehicles emphasizing style and capability.

Key Competitors:

Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra (in some aspects due to its more rugged styling and available AWD).

Unique Selling Points:

Distinctive, bold styling; available powerful V8 engine (in some markets, though likely not the primary focus for US/Canada 2007-2009 models which were primarily V6); spacious interior for its class; available AWD.

Value For Buyers:

Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information, enabling owners to perform complex tasks, diagnose issues accurately, and maintain their vehicle effectively, potentially saving on labor costs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive vehicle repair, maintenance, and diagnostics

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, emission control, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 45RFE, 545RFE), manual transmission (if applicable), clutch system, transfer case (4WD models)

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, CV joints, differential

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake)

Electrical:

Body control modules, instrument cluster, lighting, power accessories, audio system, charging system, starting system, ignition system, CAN bus communication

Body:

Interior trim, exterior trim, body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, seats, convertible top (if applicable), bumpers, HVAC system, airbags

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical circuit diagnosis, symptom-based diagnostics

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repairs, major component overhauls (engine, transmission), bodywork repair

Special Procedures:

Wheel alignment, brake bleeding, diagnostic tool usage, calibration procedures, refrigerant handling

Diagnostic Capability:

In-depth diagnostic information, including electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting charts.

Repair Complexity:

Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, body component replacement, and electrical system repairs.

Information Source:

Directly derived from manufacturer's factory documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - universally compatible and searchable.

Print Quality Description:

High-resolution scans suitable for clear printing of text, diagrams, and images.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

Operating Systems:

Windows (95/98/ME/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10), Linux, macOS, iOS, Android

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

3.7L (226 cu in)

Engine 1 Configuration:

V6 (SOHC)

Engine 1 Block Material:

Iron

Engine 1 Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

3.66 in x 3.57 in (93 mm x 90.9 mm)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)

Engine 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Optional Engine Displacement:

4.0L (244 cu in) - 'SOHC V6' (often referred to as the '4.0L' variant for specific markets/trims, distinct from the standard 3.7L. May be present in some 2007-2009 models or specific trims).

Optional Engine Horsepower:

255 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx. for 4.0L)

Optional Engine Torque:

275 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx. for 4.0L)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)

Optional Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (45RFE/545RFE) - More commonly paired with the 4.0L engine if available, or for higher trim levels/AWD.

Manual Transmission Availability:

Not typically offered in US/Canada market for this generation.

Drive Type:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional

Transfer Case Type:

NV140 or NV244 (for AWD models)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.0 inches (4547 mm)

Width:

72.5 inches (1841 mm)

Height:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Wheelbase:

109.5 inches (2781 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 30.5 cu ft (864 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 62.4 cu ft (1767 liters)

Curb Weight Approx Rwd:

4,239 lbs (1923 kg)

Curb Weight Approx AWD:

4,403 lbs (1997 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

4-star (driver and passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5-star (front and rear passengers)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Acceptable (for earlier model years, ratings can vary)

Traction Control:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard

Anti-Lock Braking System:

Standard (ABS)

Airbags Front:

Standard advanced multi-stage front airbags

Airbags Side Curtain:

Optional/Standard depending on trim (front and rear side curtain airbags)

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Options:

Available with AM/FM stereo, CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Higher trims may have touchscreen navigation systems.

Audio Speaker Configurations:

Standard 4-speaker or optional 6-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Auxiliary Input:

Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.

Remote Start:

Available as an optional feature.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Consult manual for severe driving recommendations.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed, based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for original equipment iridium spark plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on usage. Consult manual for specific interval and fluid type.

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

Initial replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified (Chrysler MS-6395)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for 3.7L V6

Transmission Fluid Specification:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Transfer Case Fluid Specification:

Mopar NV244 Transfer Case Lubricant (or equivalent)

Coolant Specification:

OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (Chrysler HOAT - Orange color)

Common Complaints Engine:

Minor oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan, occasional issues with EGR valve or throttle body. The 3.7L V6 is generally robust but can be prone to carbon buildup.

Common Complaints Transmission:

Some reports of premature wear or 'slipping' in older automatic transmissions, especially if fluid maintenance was neglected.

Common Complaints Suspension Steering:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links are common wear items due to the vehicle's weight and intended use.

Common Complaints Electrical:

Issues with power window regulators, HVAC blower motor resistor, and intermittent sensor failures can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Identity:

Known for performance, muscle cars, and rugged utility vehicles.

Nitro Introduction:

The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year as a compact SUV, sharing its platform (and many components) with the Jeep Liberty (KJ).

Platform Sharing:

Based on the Chrysler KA platform, derived from the Jeep KJ platform.

Production Period:

2007-2012

Assembly Location:

Toledo North Assembly Plant, Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards General:

The Dodge Nitro did not receive widespread major awards but was recognized for its distinctive styling and value in certain consumer surveys for its segment.