🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Nitro Year: 2009 Codes Platform: Chrysler KA platform (shared with Jeep Liberty KK) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The Dodge Nitro was positioned as a mid-size crossover SUV, targeting buyers seeking a more rugged and utilitarian alternative to more car-like crossovers, with styling cues borrowed from the Dodge Ram pickup. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed against vehicles like the Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Jeep Liberty (its platform sibling). Key Features Key Features: Available V6 engines, optional 4WD, distinctive styling, available premium interior features, and a towing capacity competitive for its class. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All models, all repairs A-Z Page Count Page Count: Likely 1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF), though physical print versions also exist. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Service And Repair: Includes detailed procedures for engine assembly, disassembly, diagnosis, and repair for all gasoline engines offered. Powertrain Control Modules: Diagnosis and repair of ECU, PCM, TCM, and related sensor/actuator circuits. Transmission Service And Repair: Covers automatic transmission (e.g., 42RLE) overhaul, fluid changes, diagnostic procedures, and electronic controls. Drivetrain And Axles: Front and rear axle service, differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, and 4WD system operation and repair. Suspension And Steering: Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), power steering system diagnosis and repair, alignment procedures. Brake System: Disc brake service (pads, rotors, calipers), ABS system diagnosis and repair, parking brake mechanisms. Electrical System: Comprehensive wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, power windows, locks, and accessories. Climate Control HVAC: Air conditioning system service, diagnosis of refrigerant leaks, heater core replacement, blower motor and control unit repair. Body And Interior: Door panel removal, seat adjustment mechanisms, interior trim component replacement, body panel repair and replacement procedures. Safety Systems: Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt pre-tensioner service, ABS and ESC system integration. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement. Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues, OBD-II code explanations and suggested remedies. Component Replacement: Detailed instructions for replacing virtually any component, from minor sensors to major powertrain units. Rebuilding And Overhaul: Procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding, including torque specifications and clearances. Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting power loss, intermittent electrical faults, and component failures using wiring diagrams. Specifications And Tolerances: Critical torque values, measurement specifications, and operating clearances for all major components. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Directly mirrors dealership technician resources. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Typically PDF with searchable text for efficient information retrieval. Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution scans or digital natives ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and schematics. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (for digital format); if printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability. Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (for digital format); if printed, high-quality paper suitable for shop use. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 2 8L V6 Sohc: 3.7L V6, SOHC, 12-valve (2 valves per cylinder). Power: Approx. 210-215 hp. Torque: Approx. 235-240 lb-ft. Engine 4 0L V6 Sohc: 4.0L V6, SOHC, 12-valve. Power: Approx. 260 hp. Torque: Approx. 280 lb-ft. Performance Compression Ratio 3 7L: 9.6:1 Compression Ratio 4 0L: 9.1:1 Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI). Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded gasoline (for both engines). 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 545RFE for 3.7L, 5-speed W5A580 for 4.0L). Optional Transmission Options: While primarily automatic, specific configurations might have varied. The manual explicitly covers automatic transmissions. Features Transfer Case Type: Electronic part-time 4WD system or RWD. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 110.1 inches Length: Approx. 180.6 inches Width: Approx. 73.0 inches Height: Approx. 70.1 inches Weights Curb Weight 3 7L Rwd: Approx. 4,215 lbs Curb Weight 4 0L 4Wd: Approx. 4,560 lbs Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Second Row: Approx. 31.0 cubic feet Cargo Volume With Second Row Folded: Approx. 62.4 cubic feet 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact: 5 Stars NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact: 5 Stars IIHS Front Offset Crash Test: Good Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels. Traction Control: Available Traction Control System (TCS). Electronic Stability Control: Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Passive Features Airbags: Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants. Seat Belts: 3-point seat belts with pretensioners for all occupants. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and optional navigation system. Uconnect hands-free communication system available. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: ParkSense Rear Park Assist system was an option. Connectivity Connectivity Options: Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free, USB input...
Chrysler KA platform (shared with Jeep Liberty KK)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Market Position:
The Dodge Nitro was positioned as a mid-size crossover SUV, targeting buyers seeking a more rugged and utilitarian alternative to more car-like crossovers, with styling cues borrowed from the Dodge Ram pickup.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Jeep Liberty (its platform sibling).
Key Features
Key Features:
Available V6 engines, optional 4WD, distinctive styling, available premium interior features, and a towing capacity competitive for its class.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage:
All models, all repairs A-Z
Page Count
Page Count:
Likely 1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), though physical print versions also exist.
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Service And Repair:
Includes detailed procedures for engine assembly, disassembly, diagnosis, and repair for all gasoline engines offered.
Powertrain Control Modules:
Diagnosis and repair of ECU, PCM, TCM, and related sensor/actuator circuits.
5-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 545RFE for 3.7L, 5-speed W5A580 for 4.0L).
Optional
Transmission Options:
While primarily automatic, specific configurations might have varied. The manual explicitly covers automatic transmissions.
Features
Transfer Case Type:
Electronic part-time 4WD system or RWD.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 110.1 inches
Length:
Approx. 180.6 inches
Width:
Approx. 73.0 inches
Height:
Approx. 70.1 inches
Weights
Curb Weight 3 7L Rwd:
Approx. 4,215 lbs
Curb Weight 4 0L 4Wd:
Approx. 4,560 lbs
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:
Approx. 31.0 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Second Row Folded:
Approx. 62.4 cubic feet
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Electronic Stability Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for all occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and optional navigation system. Uconnect hands-free communication system available.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkSense Rear Park Assist system was an option.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free, USB input for media playback (availability varied by trim level).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact schedule).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles, or as recommended by the manual, especially for severe service.
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles or 5 years, typically using HOAT or OAT coolant as specified.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil 3 7L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer certification (e.g., Chrysler MS-6395).
Engine Oil 4 0L:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer certification (e.g., Chrysler MS-6395).
Transmission Fluid Type:
For 42RLE/545RFE: ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602). For W5A580: Pentosin ATF 134 or equivalent (MB-Approval 236.14).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically orange (e.g., Mopar OAT).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, as specified in the manual.
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Potential issues can include premature wear of suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), HVAC blower motor failures, electronic throttle control problems, and occasional transmission solenoid issues.
Cv Axle Wear:
Front CV axles can experience wear due to driving conditions and the vehicle's weight.
Paint Adhesion:
Some reports of paint adhesion issues, particularly on the hood and roof, depending on climate and care.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Dodge, a brand within Chrysler (now part of Stellantis), has a long history of producing rugged and performance-oriented vehicles, often with a focus on trucks and SUVs.
Model Evolution
Model Introduction:
The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year as Dodge's first mid-size SUV.
Generation Details:
The 2009 model year falls within the first generation (2007-2011) of the Dodge Nitro.
Production
Production Location:
Assembled at the Jeep assembly plant in Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Production Years:
2007-2011
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards:
While not a recipient of major industry awards, its sibling, the Jeep Liberty, often received mention for off-road capability and robust build.
Ratings
Safety Ratings Summary:
Generally strong NHTSA ratings for frontal impact, highlighting the safety structure. IIHS ratings also indicated good performance in frontal offset tests.
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