🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Charger Model Code: LX Platform Year: 2005 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Full-size sedan Target Audience: Performance-oriented buyers, fleet operators, DIY enthusiasts. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, Buick LaCrosse. Key Features Design Philosophy: Retro styling evoking the classic 1960s Dodge Charger, rear-wheel drive platform, potent V8 engine options. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive service, maintenance, and repair Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul procedures for all engine variants, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, timing systems, lubrication, and cooling. Engine Performance: Fuel injection, ignition system diagnostics, emissions control systems (EGR, EVAP), turbocharger (if applicable), engine control module (ECM) testing and calibration. Transmission Manual: Service and repair for manual transmissions, including clutch system, gear selection, and internal component overhaul. Transmission Automatic: Complete diagnostic, service, and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, and electronic controls. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, differentials, rear-wheel drive (RWD) driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly, and limited-slip differential service. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, sway bars, springs, and alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, and electronic power steering (EPS) components. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, front and rear disc brake service (pads, rotors, calipers), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) diagnosis, brake lines, master cylinder, and power booster. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, grounds, and circuit protection. Lighting: Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lamps, turn signals, and bulb replacement procedures. Climate Control: HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling (R134a), compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, and control panel service. Body Interior: Door panel removal, seat adjustment and removal, headliner, dashboard assembly, interior trim, and carpet replacement. Body Exterior: Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, doors, glass replacement (windshield, side windows), body panel alignment, and paint repair guidelines. Safety Systems: Airbag system diagnosis and service, seatbelt mechanisms, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) components if equipped. Infotainment: Radio, navigation system, speaker replacement, and basic troubleshooting of audio and display units. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation, and step-by-step troubleshooting trees. Component Replacement: Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all major and minor components of the vehicle. Rebuilding Procedures: Complete overhaul instructions for engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical assemblies. Calibration And Adjustment: Procedures for engine control module (ECM) relearning, throttle body calibration, suspension alignment, and other critical adjustments. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Visual Aids: Includes exploded views, diagnostic flowcharts, and detailed illustrations to guide repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Searchable PDF Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Option 1: 3.5L V6 (250 hp @ 6400 rpm, 250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm) Engine Option 2: 5.7L HEMI V8 (340 hp @ 5000 rpm, 390 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm) Performance Engine Displacement Liter: 3.5 L, 5.7 L Engine Type: V6, V8 (HEMI) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Emission Controls Emission Standard: Tier 2 Bin 5 (Federal) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) on 3.5L V6; 5-Speed Automatic (W5A580) on 5.7L HEMI V8 Optional Optional Transmission: 5-Speed Manual (NSG 370) available on some 3.5L V6 models (rare) Features Transmission Features Hemi: Includes Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System (MDS) for fuel economy. Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+4 (Mopar) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 120.0 inches (3048 mm) Length: 197.7 inches (5022 mm) Width: 74.1 inches (1882 mm) Height: 58.4 inches (1483 mm) Cargo Trunk Capacity: 15.6 cubic feet (441 liters) Weights Curb Weight 3.5L: 3,750 lbs (1701 kg) Curb Weight 5.7L: 4,080 lbs (1850 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) NHTSA Side Driver Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) IIHS Side Impact Rating: Good Active Features Active Safety Features: Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA). Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Front advanced multi-stage airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, crumple zones. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Factory AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, optional Boston Acoustics premium sound system, optional navigation system. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: ParkView Rear...
Complete overhaul procedures for all engine variants, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, timing systems, lubrication, and cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system diagnostics, emissions control systems (EGR, EVAP), turbocharger (if applicable), engine control module (ECM) testing and calibration.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair for manual transmissions, including clutch system, gear selection, and internal component overhaul.
Transmission Automatic:
Complete diagnostic, service, and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, and electronic controls.
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, sway bars, springs, and alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, and electronic power steering (EPS) components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear disc brake service (pads, rotors, calipers), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) diagnosis, brake lines, master cylinder, and power booster.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, grounds, and circuit protection.
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lamps, turn signals, and bulb replacement procedures.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling (R134a), compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, and control panel service.
Body Interior:
Door panel removal, seat adjustment and removal, headliner, dashboard assembly, interior trim, and carpet replacement.
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, doors, glass replacement (windshield, side windows), body panel alignment, and paint repair guidelines.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and service, seatbelt mechanisms, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) components if equipped.
Infotainment:
Radio, navigation system, speaker replacement, and basic troubleshooting of audio and display units.
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional), Remote Keyless Entry, Cruise Control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Uconnect Hands-Free Communication (optional, introduced later in the generation).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on visual inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Double Platinum).
Spark Plug Replacement Hemi:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (if equipped with suitable long-life plugs).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified
Engine Oil Type Hemi:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified (for MDS operation)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT), Pink
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Problem 1:
Water pump leaks (especially on 5.7L HEMI).
Common Problem 2:
Rear axle whine or bearing noise.
Common Problem 3:
Front suspension clunks or rattles (control arm bushings, sway bar links).
Common Problem 4:
ABS/ESP warning lights due to faulty wheel speed sensors.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles and muscle cars, establishing a reputation for power and distinctive styling.
Model Evolution
Charger Lineage:
The 2005 Charger marked the revival of the Charger nameplate after a hiatus, repositioned as a four-door sedan with a performance focus, built on the LX platform shared with the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.