2005-2008 Dodge Magnum: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger and cargo room
- Ride/handling
- Acceleration (RT)
Cons
- Acceleration (2.7 V6)
- Fuel economy (RT)
Vehicle Highlights
Dodge redesigned its large car for 2005, switching from a V6 sedan with front-wheel drive to a wagon that offered rear- or all-wheel drive and a V8. Magnum replaced the Intrepid and shared a platform with Chrysler's 300 sedan. It had a rear liftgate with opening glass. Three trim levels were offered. SE models used a 190-hp 2.7-liter V6 and had rear-wheel drive. SXT versions used a 250-hp V6 and were available with rear-drive or AWD. RT models used a 340-hp 5.7-liter V8 and were also available with rear-drive or AWD. Chrysler called RT's V8 the Hemi, and it features the company's Multi-Displacement System, which deactivates four cylinders under light throttle conditions to save fuel. All Magnums had automatic transmission--the SE a 4-speed, the other models a 5-speed with manual shift gate. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard. ABS and traction/antiskid control were standard on SXT and RT, optional on SE. Available on all was a Protection Group that includes front side airbags and front and rear curtain side airbags. SEs had 17-inch wheels, SXTs and RTs had 18s. RTs added a firmer suspension. Split folding rear seatbacks and tilt/telescope steering wheel were standard. Among options were a rear load-leveling suspension, adjustable pedals, satellite radio, and Chrysler's UConnect hands-free wireless cell-phone link. Leather upholstery was standard on the RT, optional on the others.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Dodge Magnum AWD SXT Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 8 | |
| Value within Class | 10 | |
| Total Score: | 67 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum.
Year to Year Changes
2006 Dodge Magnum and Charger:
There were no significant changes to Magnum for 2006, but it did get a sedan companion called Charger.
2007 Dodge Magnum and Charger:
Magnum got no major changes of note for 2007.
2008 Dodge Magnum and Charger:
The 2008 Dodge Magnum got mildly freshened interior and exterior styling for what Chrysler says is this large wagon's final model year. Among other changes were a slightly updated dashboard and revised interior trim.
Our road test for the 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
On the road, Magnum SE with 2.7-liter V6 feels tepid, requires lots of passing room; Dodge says 11.3 sec 0-60 mph. The 3.5 V6 is OK in town, but has only adequate passing punch. Dodge claims 9.3 sec with rear drive; AWD SXT felt little different. Test V8-powered R/T did 5.8 sec 0-60, showed ready muscle from any speed. Dodge says SRT8 models do 0-60 mph in around 5.0 sec, which seemed credible. SRT8s aren't rated for towing, but other V8s are good for up to 3800 lb. Extended-use-test rear-drive Magnum R/T averaged 15.9 mpg over 11,935 miles. Other test rear-drive R/Ts averaged 15.9 mpg in mostly city driving, 18.4 mpg with more highway work. Test Magnum SRT8 averaged 14.3 mpg. Dodge recommends 87-octane fuel for 2.7-liter V6, 89 for 3.5 V6 and 5.7 V8, 91 octane for 6.1-liter V8. Little difference in ride quality between Magnum and more-luxurious Chrysler 300. Ride generally smooth, composed, but rippled pavement triggers annoying jiggling, especially in V8 models with their firmer suspensions. SRT8s have firmest ride, may be too stiff for some buyers. All versions tested suffered unwanted float over highway-speed dips and swells. Linear steering with good road feel helps create a stable feeling at highway speeds. Though not as agile as most like-sized European sedans in quick direction changes, Magnum has good balance and grip in turns. SRT8s have sharpest handling, abundant grip. Confident stopping power, but some testers complain of long pedal travel. Test rear-drive V8 models negotiated rainy roads without undue slip. But extended-use-test rear-drive Magnum R/T was difficult to maneuver in 6 inches of fresh snow, despite traction control and all-season tires. Magnum's available AWD is the recommended solution for all-weather traction. Noticeable roar from V6s during acceleration. V8s make throaty full-throttle growl, but are quiet enough in gentle cruising. Magnum suffers more road ruckus than 300 or Charger, mostly because of open rear cargo area vs. closed-off trunk, and R/Ts have more tire roar than other Magnums/Chargers. Wind rush evident at highway speeds. Note: Charger's Daytona R/T Package includes aggressive-sounding performance exhaust tuning that some testers found tiresome on long trips. Instruments large and easy to read, but steering-wheel rim cuts into view of turn-signal arrows and gauges for fuel and temperature. Most controls within easy reach, though some are too low to easily adjust while driving. Navigation system simpler than most to operate. Interior materials a slight grade below those of 300, but feel solid enough with nice array of padded panels--entirely appropriate for the price level. Spacious interior has ample head and leg room. Generously sized seats, but flat cushions allow occupants to slide during aggressive cornering. SRT8 addresses this problem with sport buckets. Rear seats have plenty of leg and toe space, even with front seats pushed well back. Enough thigh support for long-trip comfort, but middle rider must straddle bulky driveline hump. Thick front roof pillars block some drivers' view to front corners. Magnum's low roofline obstructs visibility to sides and rear. Magnum's wagon shape means lots of cargo room, but low roofline forces carrying tall objects flat. Versatility enhanced by standard split folding 60/40 rear seatbacks in Magnums, but they don't lay completely flat.
Value for the Money
Magnum proves aggressive styling and functionality are not mutually exclusive. The 2.7 V6 can't move this big wagon with much verve, but the 3.5 V6 offers acceptable performance, and the R/T and SRT8 are muscle cars. Cargo versatility, passenger room, available all-wheel drive, and solid construction inside and out make most any Magnum an outstanding value.
Magnum proves aggressive styling and functionality are not mutually exclusive. The 2.7 V6 can't move this big wagon with much verve, but the 3.5 V6 offers acceptable performance, and the R/T and SRT8 are muscle cars. Cargo versatility, passenger room, available all-wheel drive, and solid construction inside and out make most any Magnum an outstanding value.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Dodge Magnum AWD SXT Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 7 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 8 | |
| Value within Class | 10 | |
| Total Score: | 67 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Dodge Magnum and Charger includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Dodge Magnum and Charger .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
The A/C may gradually get worse while driving in hot, humid weather because the evaporator ices up and blocks airflow. This requires reprogramming the automatic temperature control unit. (2006)
Starter:
The remote starter may not work because of a failed hood switch. (2005)
Steering problems:
Power steering additives containing Teflon can plug up the filter in the fluid reservoir. (2004-05)
Transmission leak:
The transmission solenoid/pressure switch leaks fluid causing a check engine light, requiring replacement of the solenoid and electrical connector and fluid may also leak from the electrical connector guide on the right front corner of the transmission. (2005)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $1,050 |
| Alternator | $830 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $4,120 |
| Brakes | $350 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $3,240 |
| Exhaust System | $920 |
| Radiator | $740 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,650 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $740 |
Our price chart for this generation Dodge Magnum and Charger details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| Magnum | $16,000-19,500 | $14,600-17,700 | $10,200-12,500 |
| Magnum R/T | $22,000-24,000 | $20,200-22,100 | $14,300-15,600 |
| Magnum SRT-8 | $26,800-29,500 | $24,900-27,400 | $18,000-19,800 |
| 2007 | |||
| Magnum | $14,000-16,500 | $12,700-15,000 | $8,500-10,100 |
| Magnum R/T | $19,000-20,700 | $17,500-19,000 | $12,400-13,500 |
| Magnum SRT-8 | $24,000-26,000 | $22,300-24,200 | $15,600-16,900 |
| 2006 | |||
| Magnum | $12,300-14,800 | $11,100-13,300 | $7,000-8,400 |
| Magnum R/T | $16,500-18,200 | $15,000-16,600 | $10,600-11,600 |
| Magnum SRT-8 | $21,500-23,500 | $19,800-21,600 | $14,000-15,300 |
| 2005 | |||
| Magnum | $11,000-13,200 | $9,900-11,900 | $5,900-7,100 |
| Magnum R/T | $14,800-16,000 | $13,500-14,600 | $9,300-10,100 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Dodge Magnum and Charger include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door wagon | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 120.0 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 197.7 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 74.1 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 58.4 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3847 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 71.6 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.4 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.8 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.1 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 40.2 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
SE models used a 190-hp 2.7-liter V6 and had rear-wheel drive. SXT versions used a 250-hp V6 and were available with rear-drive or AWD. RT models used a 340-hp 5.7-liter V8 and were also available with rear-drive or AWD. Chrysler called RT's V8 the Hemi, and it features the company's Multi-Displacement System, which deactivates four cylinders under light throttle conditions to save fuel. All Magnums had automatic transmission--the SE a 4-speed, the other models a 5-speed with manual shift gate.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc V6 | 3.5 / 215 | 250 | 250 | 4-speed automatic: 19/27 5-speed automatic: 17/24 |
4-speed automatic: -- 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 2.7 / 167 | 190 | 190 | 4-speed automatic: 21/28 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V8 | 5.7 / 345 | 340 | 390 | 5-speed automatic: 17/25 | 5-speed automatic: 15.9 |
| ohv V8 | 6.1 / 370 | 425 | 420 | 5-speed automatic: 14/18 | 5-speed automatic: 14.3 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Canada
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Dodge Magnum and Charger include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2005 Magnum |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2005 Magnum:
Bulkhead-mounted battery-cable fasteners could come loose and cause an instrument-panel fire. Dealers will tighten the fastener to proper specification.
2005 Magnum:
Certain vehicles may lack a spot weld on the rear floorpan reinforcement, which could cause seatbelt anchors to separate in a crash and lead to occupant injury. Dealers will inspect rear floorpan reinforcement and install structural rivets if necessary.
2005 Magnum:
Front seatbelt-loop bolts may not have been properly tightened, possibly causing seatbelts to fail in a crash. Dealers will tighten shoulder-belt adjuster-loop bolts to proper specification.
2005-06 Magnum w/ 42RLE Automatic Transmission:
Improperly installed cup plug on 42RLE automatic transmission could prevent transmission from shifting into Park. Dealers will install a bracket on affected vehicles.
2006 Magnum w/2.7-liter V6:
Improper spacing between rear brake tubes and EGR tube could lead to break-fluid leak resulting in decrease in braking performance. Dealers removed and replace damaged tubes and install a retaining clip to maintain proper clearance.
2007 Magnum w/automatic:
The powertrain control software can cause a momentary lock up of the drive wheels if the vehicle is traveling over 40 mph and the operator shifts from drive to neutral and back to drive. If the drive wheels locked up, loss of vehicle control could occur. Dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module free of charge.
2007:
The antilock brake system control module software may cause the rear brakes to lock up during certain braking conditions. This could result in a loss of vehicle control and cause a crash without warning. Dealers will reprogram the ABS electronic control unit.
2008:
Improperly manufactured rear axle hub nuts could loosen, causing the vehicle to lose power and result in a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the rear axle hub nuts.
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