🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Nitro

Year:

2008

Market Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover SUV

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Compact SUV with a focus on styling and utility.

Key Competitors:

Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Rogue

Design Philosophy:

Bold, aggressive styling; spacious interior for its class; available V8 engine (unique in segment).

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Features, controls, maintenance, service schedules, DIY activities, towing, safety

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a 2008 model year owner's manual)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Electronic (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, basic troubleshooting, fluid checks

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel drive system operation (if applicable), basic function

Chassis:

Brake system warning lights, ABS operation basics, steering wheel controls

Electrical:

Lighting controls, instrument cluster indicators, basic electrical component identification (fuses, relays - often in a separate section or index)

Interior:

Climate control, audio system, seating adjustments, dashboard controls

Exterior:

Door locks, power windows, mirrors, wiper controls

Operation:

Starting and driving the vehicle, operating various features (cruise control, audio)

Maintenance:

Recommended service intervals, fluid level checks, tire pressure checks, basic fluid top-offs (e.g., washer fluid)

Do It Yourself:

Basic tasks like changing wiper blades, checking fluid levels, possibly bulb replacement (depending on complexity)

Safety:

Child seat installation, seat belt usage, airbag system information, emergency procedures

Towing:

Towing capacity recommendations, trailer wiring information, weight distribution advice

Level:

Consumer-oriented, focusing on operation and basic maintenance; not a full service or repair manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Windows, Mac, Linux

Readability:

High resolution for clear text and image rendering

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Designed for printing on standard home/office printers

Physical Analogue:

Softcover, perfect bound (for the original physical manual)

Physical Analogue:

Standard paper, likely matte finish

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.8L I4 VM Motori Diesel (common in international markets), 3.7L V6 Chrysler, 4.0L V6 SOHC Chrysler

2008 Common Us Engine:

3.7L V6 (205 hp @ 5000 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)

4.0L V6 Specs:

260 hp @ 6000 rpm, 265 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Induction Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Regular)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (42RLE)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic (NAG1 - W5A580) for 4.0L V6 models

Drivetrain Options:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

109.5 inches (2781 mm)

Length:

179.0 inches (4547 mm)

Width:

73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Height:

69.1 inches (1755 mm) to 69.9 inches (1775 mm) depending on configuration

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 96-98 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 30-35 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 60-65 cubic feet

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,800 - 4,200 lbs (1724 - 1905 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) when properly equipped

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver:

4 Stars (2008 Model Year)

NHTSA Front Passenger:

5 Stars (2008 Model Year)

NHTSA Side Driver:

4 Stars (2008 Model Year)

NHTSA Side Rear Passenger:

4 Stars (2008 Model Year)

IIHS Roof Strength:

Acceptable (2008 Model Year)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard (Electronic Traction Control - ETC)

Electronic Stability:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - may vary by trim

Airbags:

Front advanced driver and passenger airbags, available side-curtain airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners in front, LATCH child seat anchor system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Optional Boston Acoustics premium sound system, SiriusXM satellite radio.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system, often integrated into a larger infotainment screen.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Bluetooth:

Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system available on some trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil recommended).

Tire Rotation:

Every 7,500 miles or as needed based on wear pattern.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (more frequently in dusty conditions).

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect annually, replace as needed.

Spark Plugs 3.7L V6:

Replace at 100,000 miles (typically platinum or iridium type).

Engine Oil Type 3.7L V6:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher certified (Chrysler MS-6395)

Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L V6:

5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change

Transmission Fluid Type 42Rle:

ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602)

Coolant Type:

OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Chrysler MS-9769), typically a pink/orange color.

Common Complaints:

Some reports of transmission shifting issues, early suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), and potential for water pump leaks on V6 engines. Interior rattles and minor electrical gremlins are not uncommon for this era.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Dodge (a division of Chrysler Group LLC)

Platform Basis:

Shared platform with the Jeep Liberty (KJ), which was later succeeded by the KK platform.

First Generation:

2007-2012

Assembly Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards History:

While the Dodge Nitro didn't garner significant mainstream awards for refinement or performance, it was often recognized for its bold styling and value proposition within the compact SUV segment.