Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Primary Market Focus:
Targeted at buyers seeking a stylish, capable, and somewhat rugged SUV with a focus on design and utility.
Key Competitors:
Jeep Liberty (shares platform), Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Chevrolet Equinox.
Design Philosophy:
Bold, aggressive styling with a muscular stance, differentiating it from more conventionally styled crossovers.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the DaimlerChrysler/Chrysler compact SUV platform, shared with the Jeep Liberty.
Engine Service Repair:
Includes detailed procedures for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all powertrain options.
Transmission Service Repair:
Covers both automatic and manual transmissions, including diagnosis, repair, and fluid specifications.
Brake System:
Details on hydraulic components, ABS, traction control, rotor/pad replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Wiring Diagram:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.
Electrical System:
Covers lighting, power accessories, instrument cluster, starting and charging systems, and body control modules.
Suspension:
Information on front and rear suspension components, alignment procedures, and shock/strut replacement.
Steering:
Details on power steering systems, steering columns, and linkage components.
Cooling System:
Covers radiators, water pumps, thermostat operation, coolant types, and flush procedures.
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Includes fuel pump operation, injector testing, fuel filter replacement, and evaporative emission control (EVAP).
Emission System:
Information on catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR systems, and emission control components.
Engine Control System:
Details on ECU (Engine Control Unit) operation, sensor inputs, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Chassis Body:
Covers body panel removal and installation, frame repairs, door mechanisms, and interior trim.
Restraint System:
Information on airbags, seat belts, and related control modules.
Axle:
Covers front and rear axle assemblies, drive shafts, and CV joints.
General Maintenance:
Includes scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid checks, filter replacements, and general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Guides on diagnosing common problems using symptoms, diagnostic tools, and systematic approaches.
Periodic Lubrication:
Specific lubrication points, recommended lubricants, and service intervals for chassis components.
Refurbish Renovate Mend Fix:
Covers a wide range of repair tasks from minor adjustments to major component overhauls.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Engine Options:
2.8L VM Motori turbodiesel (R420 - common in Europe, less so in North America), 3.7L Chrysler PowerTech V6 (205 hp, 235 lb-ft), 4.0L Chrysler PowerTech V6 (255 hp, 265 lb-ft - later models).
Horsepower Range:
177 hp (diesel) to 255 hp (4.0L V6)
Torque Range:
265 lb-ft (diesel) to 265 lb-ft (4.0L V6)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Codes:
3.7L: EKG, 4.0L: ENJ, 2.8L Diesel: R420
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 stars (for 4WD models).
IIHS Ratings:
Varies by year and test; generally 'Acceptable' to 'Good' in frontal and side impact tests.
Standard Safety Features:
Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist.
Airbags:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags, optional side curtain airbags.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended around 60,000 miles (100,000 km), but check manual as it can vary.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (depending on engine and climate, verify with owner's manual or oil cap).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically orange or pink.
Common Problems:
Premature wear of suspension components (ball joints, control arms), potential for ABS/ESC system faults, occasional electronic module issues, water pump leaks, heater core issues.
Diagnostic Tips:
The manual's troubleshooting section is crucial for diagnosing common issues like ABS warning lights or driveability problems.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged, performance-oriented vehicles, often with distinctive styling.
Nitro Introduction:
The Dodge Nitro debuted in 2006 for the 2007 model year as Dodge's first compact crossover SUV.
Key Updates:
Introduction of the 4.0L V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission in later model years; styling tweaks.
Production Plant:
Graz, Austria (Magna Steyr plant, same as Jeep Liberty).
Production End Year:
2011 (discontinued).
