🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Nitro Year: 2007 Market Segment: Compact SUV / Crossover Codes Chassis Code: KA 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Dodge Nitro was positioned as a compact SUV with a bolder, more aggressive styling than many competitors, aiming for a younger demographic and those seeking a more utilitarian or truck-like feel in a smaller package. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Key competitors included the Jeep Liberty (its platform sibling), Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Xterra. The Nitro differentiated itself with its styling and shared powertrain options with Jeep. Key Features Styling: Distinctive, muscular exterior design, a signature Dodge grille, and a more upright stance. Platform Sharing: Built on the Chrysler KA platform, shared with the second-generation Jeep Liberty. Powertrain Options: Offered with a range of V6 engines, providing competitive power for its class. Interior Design: Functional interior with available premium features, emphasizing practicality and ruggedness. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Mechanical, Electrical, Body, and Maintenance Engine Coverage: All gasoline engines offered for the 2007 model year Transmission Coverage: Automatic and Manual transmissions Drivetrain Coverage: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive service manual) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank, evaporative emissions control Exhaust System: Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes Ignition System: Spark plugs, coils, ignition control module Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS, brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, parking brake Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, steering knuckles Steering: Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, body controls, power distribution HVAC: Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, safety restraints Diagnostics: OBD-II codes, diagnostic procedures, testing methods Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake inspection Repair: Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension upgrades, electrical component diagnosis and replacement Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon faults with diagnostic flowcharts Overhaul: Detailed instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of major components Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment data Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (covers from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds) Diagnostic Tools: References for specialized diagnostic tools and equipment Troubleshooting Charts: Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchable Text: Yes (allows keyword searching within the document) Printable: Yes (printable pages for workshop use) Print Quality Graphic Resolution: High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Variant 1: 3.7L V6 (PowerTech) Displacement 1: 3.7 liters (226 cubic inches) Configuration 1: SOHC V6 Horsepower 1: Approx. 210 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque 1: Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Engine Variant 2: 4.0L V6 (High Output) Displacement 2: 4.0 liters (242 cubic inches) Configuration 2: SOHC V6 Horsepower 2: Approx. 260 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque 2: Approx. 265 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Fuel Requirement: 87 Octane Minimum (check owner's manual for specific recommendations) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-speed automatic transmission (42RLE) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 6-speed manual transmission (NSG370) - typically paired with the 3.7L engine Features Transmission Fluid Spec Auto: ATF+4 (MS-9602 or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Spec Manual: API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil Drivetrain Options: Available in Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Command-Trac Part-Time 4WD System 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 176.1 inches Width: Approx. 73.1 inches Height: Approx. 69.1 inches Wheelbase: Approx. 109.5 inches Interior Passenger Volume: Approx. 97.1 cubic feet Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat: Approx. 30.3 cubic feet Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded: Approx. 62.7 cubic feet Weights Curb Weight Rwd 3.7L: Approx. 4168 lbs Curb Weight AWD 4.0L: Approx. 4447 lbs Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs (standard), 3,500 lbs (with optional towing package) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Rating 2007: 4 out of 5 stars IIHS Frontal Offset Score: Good (for models equipped with side airbags) 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) - sometimes referred to as ESP Passive Features Airbags Standard: Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger Airbags Optional: Available front-seat side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags Seatbelts: 3-point seat belts with pretensioners for all occupants...
The Dodge Nitro was positioned as a compact SUV with a bolder, more aggressive styling than many competitors, aiming for a younger demographic and those seeking a more utilitarian or truck-like feel in a smaller package.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Jeep Liberty (its platform sibling), Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Xterra. The Nitro differentiated itself with its styling and shared powertrain options with Jeep.
Key Features
Styling:
Distinctive, muscular exterior design, a signature Dodge grille, and a more upright stance.
Platform Sharing:
Built on the Chrysler KA platform, shared with the second-generation Jeep Liberty.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with a range of V6 engines, providing competitive power for its class.
Interior Design:
Functional interior with available premium features, emphasizing practicality and ruggedness.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Body, and Maintenance
Engine Coverage:
All gasoline engines offered for the 2007 model year
Transmission Coverage:
Automatic and Manual transmissions
Drivetrain Coverage:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive service manual)
Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension upgrades, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon faults with diagnostic flowcharts
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of major components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment data
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Tools:
References for specialized diagnostic tools and equipment
Troubleshooting Charts:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchable Text:
Yes (allows keyword searching within the document)
Printable:
Yes (printable pages for workshop use)
Print Quality
Graphic Resolution:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Variant 1:
3.7L V6 (PowerTech)
Displacement 1:
3.7 liters (226 cubic inches)
Configuration 1:
SOHC V6
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 210 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 1:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Variant 2:
4.0L V6 (High Output)
Displacement 2:
4.0 liters (242 cubic inches)
Configuration 2:
SOHC V6
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 260 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2:
Approx. 265 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Requirement:
87 Octane Minimum (check owner's manual for specific recommendations)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed automatic transmission (42RLE)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed manual transmission (NSG370) - typically paired with the 3.7L engine
Features
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
ATF+4 (MS-9602 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil
Drivetrain Options:
Available in Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Command-Trac Part-Time 4WD System
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 176.1 inches
Width:
Approx. 73.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 69.1 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 109.5 inches
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.1 cubic feet
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 30.3 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 62.7 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight Rwd 3.7L:
Approx. 4168 lbs
Curb Weight AWD 4.0L:
Approx. 4447 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2,000 lbs (standard), 3,500 lbs (with optional towing package)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating 2007:
4 out of 5 stars
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
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) - sometimes referred to as ESP
Passive Features
Airbags Standard:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger
Airbags Optional:
Available front-seat side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for all occupants
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
Available with AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 compatibility, and optional premium sound systems (e.g., Boston Acoustics).
Navigation System:
Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Display Type:
Center console-mounted display for audio, climate, and navigation information (size varies by trim and option).
Driver Assistance
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors available.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Optional Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable music devices.
Bluetooth:
Optional Uconnect hands-free Bluetooth communication system available on select models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (with synthetic oil, refer to manual for specific type)
Oil Change Interval Conventional:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (with conventional oil)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (or as needed based on conditions)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (if using iridium spark plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (if using iridium spark plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions and fluid type)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter (5W-20 or 5W-30)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter (5W-20 or 5W-30)
Coolant:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent (color may vary)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check specific model requirements)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (e.g., ATF+4 in some applications)
Known Issues
Cv Joint Wear:
Front CV joints can wear prematurely, especially on AWD models or those driven in harsh conditions.
Throttle Body Issues:
Idle air control (IAC) valve or electronic throttle body issues can cause rough idling or stalling.
Rear Suspension Clunks:
Some owners report clunking noises from the rear suspension, often related to worn bushings or shocks.
Climate Control Actuator Failure:
Blend door actuators in the HVAC system can fail, leading to poor temperature control.
Power Window Motors:
Power window regulators and motors can be a point of failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust, truck-based vehicles and muscle cars, known for performance and a distinctive American style. The Nitro aimed to bring some of that attitude to the SUV segment.
Model Evolution
Nitro Introduction:
The Dodge Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year, marking Dodge's entry into the compact SUV segment with a distinctive styling approach.
Platform Sharing:
It shared its platform and many mechanical components with the second-generation Jeep Liberty, which gave it robust underpinnings but also some shared characteristics.
Generation Span:
First Generation (2007-2011)
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA (shared with Jeep Liberty)
Sales Performance:
The Nitro experienced moderate sales success but struggled to gain significant market share against more established rivals. Its polarizing styling and some perceived quality issues also impacted its long-term appeal.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards IIHS:
While not a recurring award winner, the Nitro received 'Good' ratings in IIHS frontal offset crash tests when equipped with appropriate safety features, indicating decent structural integrity.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports historically gave the Nitro average to below-average ratings for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction, often citing issues with the powertrain and interior components.