Individuals seeking a rugged, stylish SUV with optional V8 power, often targeting a younger demographic or those desiring a bolder aesthetic compared to mainstream SUVs.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Murano.
Nitro Differentiation:
More aggressive styling, optional V8 engine (unique in its class at the time), bolder interior design cues.
Key Features
Styling:
Distinctive, muscular design with prominent grille, flared fenders, and a generally more assertive presence than many competitors.
Powertrain Options:
Availability of a powerful 4.0L V6 and a more potent 5.7L HEMI V8 engine (R/T trim).
Interior Design:
Unique interior elements, often featuring contrasting stitching and a driver-focused cockpit layout.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Covered Regions:
North America (Primary focus based on product description)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 1500-2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual)
Automatic transmission (e.g., W5A580) repair, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, and electronic control unit (TCU) information.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), driveline (4WD system, differentials), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (interior/exterior), instrument cluster, power accessories, body control module (BCM), gateway module (GW), fuse and relay identification, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, liftgate, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), body seals, sound deadening, structural repairs.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, troubleshooting flowcharts, diagnostic testing procedures for all major systems.
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.
Good (as per IIHS testing, often mirrored in NHTSA ratings)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (as per IIHS testing)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
Good (as per IIHS testing)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
Good (as per IIHS testing)
IIHS Rollover Rating:
4 stars (based on ESC standard equipment)
Active Features
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Standard (highly recommended for SUVs)
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Traction Control:
Standard
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, available full-length side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional premium audio systems, often with SiriusXM satellite radio. Navigation systems were also available.
Connectivity:
Available Uconnect hands-free communication system, auxiliary audio input jack.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assistance:
Available rear park assist system.
Cruise Control:
Standard
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil, whichever comes first.
Oil Change Interval Conventional:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months with conventional oil.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 - 20,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs Hemi:
Replace every 100,000 miles (long-life platinum or iridium plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect fluid condition regularly, change every 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions and fluid condition (refer to manual for specific guidance).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
0W-20 or 5W-20 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation for 5.7L HEMI, typically 5W-20).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7 US quarts (6.6 liters) for 5.7L HEMI with filter change.
Common across many vehicles of this era, particularly in the dashboard and door panels.
Rear Differential Leaks:
Reported by some owners, often related to pinion seal or axle seals.
HVAC Blower Motor Failure:
Blower motor resistors or the motor itself can fail, leading to erratic fan speeds or no fan operation.
Tire Wear:
Can be uneven, often due to suspension alignment or wear patterns, especially with aggressive styling.
Catalytic Converter Issues:
Some instances of premature catalytic converter failure, particularly with the HEMI V8.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Heritage:
Chrysler's performance-oriented division, known for muscle cars and trucks. The Nitro aimed to inject some of that boldness into the SUV segment.
Model Evolution
First Generation Start:
2007
Platform Sharing:
Based on DaimlerChrysler's compact SUV platform, shared with the second-generation Jeep Liberty (KK) but with a distinct Dodge styling and tuning.
Trim Levels:
SE, SLT, SXT, R/T
End Of Production:
2012
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA (alongside Jeep Liberty)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2007 Dodge Nitro generally performed well in IIHS crash tests, earning 'Good' ratings in frontal and side impacts, though it was not a consistent 'Top Safety Pick' winner in its class due to some competitive offerings.
Automotive Press Reviews:
Often praised for its bold styling and powerful V8 option, but criticized by some for fuel economy and ride quality compared to more refined competitors.