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2008 Dodge Magnum

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2008 Dodge Magnum is a unique vehicle, a station wagon that blends muscle car styling with practicality. Engine options for the 2008 Magnum included a 2.7L V6 (190 hp, 190 lb-ft torque), a 3.5L V6 (250 hp, 250 lb-ft torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (340 hp, 390 lb-ft torque) and the SRT8 got a 6.1L Hemi V8 (425 hp, 420 lb-ft torque). The most common transmission for the V6 engines was a 4-speed automatic, while the V8s used a 5-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Magnum’s spaciousness, aggressive looks, and powerful engine options, especially the Hemi V8s. Common complaints revolve around fuel economy, reliability issues, and the age-related problems of a now-older vehicle.

Engine

2.7L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from various areas, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, low oil level, and burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the leak and labor.
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The 2.7L V6 engines are known to have timing chain issues due to poor oil maintenance and lubrication. Symptoms include engine noise, misfires, and poor performance.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Overheating
    • Description/Symptoms: May overheat due to a faulty thermostat, radiator, or water pump.
    • Solution: Replace the thermostat, radiator, or water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+

3.5L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.7L, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Visible oil leaks, low oil level, and burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the leak and labor.
  • Overheating
    • Description/Symptoms: May overheat due to a faulty thermostat, radiator, or water pump.
    • Solution: Replace the thermostat, radiator, or water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+

5.7L Hemi V8

  • Hemi Tick
    • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking noise coming from the engine, often attributed to valve train components or exhaust manifold leaks. May or may not affect performance.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the tick, which could involve replacing exhaust manifold bolts, lifters, or other valve train components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the cause.
  • Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts lead to exhaust leaks, causing a ticking or hissing noise, especially upon cold starts.
    • Solution: Replace the broken bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • MDS (Multiple Displacement System) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation, and poor fuel economy, particularly when MDS is engaged (cylinder deactivation).
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the MDS system, which may involve replacing solenoids or lifters.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+

6.1L Hemi V8

  • Valve Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Valve spring failure can lead to misfires, rough running, and potentially engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace valve springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption can be a problem in the 6.1L Hemi.
    • Solution: Replace the piston rings or replace the engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $5000+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Most V6 Models)

  • Shift Flare/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or slipping between shifts, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+

5-Speed Automatic (Most V8 Models)

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or harsh shifts, particularly when downshifting.
    • Solution: Check and replace transmission fluid, adjust shift linkage, or valve body repair/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at highway speeds, poor fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and alignment issues.
    • Solution: Replace the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side.
  • Rear Suspension Sag
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded. Can affect handling and ride quality.
    • Solution: Replace the rear shocks, springs, or potentially the entire rear suspension assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+

Electrical

  • TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, including stalling, no-start condition, fuel pump issues, and erratic behavior of various electrical components.
    • Solution: Replace the TIPM or repair specific circuits within the module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Wiring Harness Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion or damage to wiring harnesses, leading to various electrical malfunctions.
    • Solution: Repair or replace damaged wiring harnesses.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the extent of the damage.

Exterior

  • Rust on Rear Wheel Arches/Panels
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rear wheel arches and lower body panels.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the affected panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the severity.

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may leak, stick, or fail to open/close properly.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, seals, or track assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door locks may fail to lock or unlock with the remote or manually.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door.
  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material detaches from the backing and begins to sag.
    • Solution: Replace the headliner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Recalls

  • Recall Number: 08V525000
    • Description: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL RAIL
  • Recall Number: 08V377000
    • Description: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
  • Recall Number: 08V008000
    • Description: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Summary The 2008 Dodge Magnum, while offering a unique blend of style and practicality, can be prone to several issues, particularly as it ages. Engine issues, especially with the 2.7L V6 and the 5.7L Hemi, can be costly. Electrical problems related to the TIPM are also a common concern. Suspension and interior issues add to the potential maintenance burden. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the chosen repair method. Buyers should carefully inspect potential vehicles and be prepared for potential repairs.

Dodge, Magnum
Dodge Magnum 2008
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