by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2008 Dodge Nitro Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.10
Based on 47 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2008 Dodge Nitro is a compact SUV produced by Dodge from 2007 to 2012. Its boxy, aggressive styling set it apart from the more rounded SUVs of the time. Key trims included the SXT, SLT, and R/T. The 2008 model offered a blend of rugged looks and car-like handling. Original pricing ranged from approximately $20,000 to $30,000, depending on the trim and options. Its distinctive design made it popular among those wanting a bolder SUV statement.
The Good

The 2008 Dodge Nitro offered a bold and muscular design, appealing to those seeking a distinctive look. Performance was adequate, especially with the optional V6. Practical buyers appreciated its spacious cargo area and available towing capacity. While not the most fuel-efficient, it provided decent value for its price point, balancing style and utility.

The Bad

The 2008 Dodge Nitro suffered from subpar fuel economy, especially with the larger engine. Reliability could be a concern, with reports of electrical issues and drivetrain problems. The interior materials felt cheap, and the ride could be harsh. Potential buyers should inspect the suspension, transmission, and electrical systems carefully.

2008 Dodge Nitro: Quick Overview

Here's a bullet-point summary of the 2008 Dodge Nitro's key specs:

  • Engine Options:
  • 3.7L V6: Standard on SXT and SLT
  • 4.0L V6: Available on SLT and standard on R/T
  • Horsepower:
  • 3.7L V6: 210 hp
  • 4.0L V6: 260 hp
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
  • 3.7L V6: 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway (2WD)
  • 4.0L V6: 16 mpg city / 21 mpg highway (2WD)
  • 0-60 mph Times (estimated):
  • 3.7L V6: Around 9.0 seconds
  • 4.0L V6: Around 7.5 seconds
  • Towing Capacity (with proper equipment): Up to 5,000 lbs
  • Trim Level Features:
  • SXT: Air conditioning, power windows and locks, cloth seats, AM/FM/CD stereo.
  • SLT: Adds alloy wheels, premium cloth seats, cruise control, and available options like leather seats and sunroof.
  • R/T: Performance-tuned suspension, unique styling cues, premium audio system, and standard 4.0L V6 engine.
The 2008 Nitro came standard with rear-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive was available as an option on all trims. Several packages offered additional features, such as a sunroof, premium audio, and enhanced safety equipment.

2008 Dodge Nitro Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2008
Make Dodge
Model Nitro
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City BEIJING
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 5.9L V8
Engine Size 5.9L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2008 Dodge Nitro Have?

The 2008 Dodge Nitro has several frequently reported problems and reliability concerns. Some of the most common include issues with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), which can cause a variety of electrical problems such as stalling, difficulty starting, and malfunctioning accessories. Suspension components, particularly ball joints and tie rod ends, are also prone to wear and may require frequent replacement.
Transmission issues, especially with the automatic transmission, have been reported, including rough shifting and premature failure. Owners have also noted problems with the air conditioning system, including compressor failure.
While specific recalls may vary, it's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any recalls related to the 2008 Dodge Nitro. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Long-term reliability is generally considered below average compared to its competitors. Regular maintenance and careful inspection of key components are essential to mitigate potential problems.

How long will the 2008 Dodge Nitro last?

A 2008 Dodge Nitro, with proper maintenance, can potentially reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or provide 12-15 years of service. However, achieving this lifespan heavily depends on consistent maintenance and driving habits.
Long-term durability weaknesses include potential rust issues (especially in northern climates), suspension wear, and electrical component failures. The engine and transmission, if well-maintained, can be relatively durable, but neglecting regular servicing often leads to premature failure. Overall, proactive maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan of a 2008 Nitro.
Positive Owner Reviews
Peggy
Had the car for 15 years with no problems. It's still like new with 18K miles on the odometer.It should last my whole life. thanks
MPABLO
Roomy SUV that has had its routine maintenance all the years I've owned it. Expanding our family, so need a 3rd row otherwise we'd keep it
Dalan
This vehicle is what I was looking for to carry all my fishing stuff my boat even my golf clubs so yes there is allot of room in them, even better it has a sunroof touchscreen and a DVD player
Negative Owner Reviews
gas gas gas
I purchased my 2008 Nitro in Feb or 2009. They dealer had plenty of 2008s on the lot however my budget only allowed me to purchase the SXT level with the "SLT" look, which gave me 17 inch chrome plated rims a sun/moon roof and painted body side moldings. I loved this truck for about oooooh 6-7 months. The foot wells esp. on the drivers side offered no comfort at all. My foot was always at the 45 degree angle on the gas pedal. The brake pedal is really way to big and in the way at times. Also around the first few months of driving I began to have pain in my left (gas pedal) foot. It was something I had never experienced when driving and it persisted for almost a year (doctors only could offer pain pills). Fast forward to the late winter early spring of 2010. I noticed that my passanger side front and back carpeting was soaked. At first I figured it was the water bottle on the floor leaking out. However the next big rain storm I had a small pond on my passenger floor. Took it to the dealer and sure enough all the seals from the sun roof down the pillars had split open . Thankfully it was still under warrenty but this is not something that should happen to a brand new car. Fast forward to the summer of 2010, my front and or rear brakes began to squeal. Now I only had maybe 24,000 miles on the car and the checks at every oil change showed I had plenty of pad life left. But the squealing and screeching became to embarrasing so I replaced the pads, nothing changed, replaced the rotors, nothing changed, had to get hybrid brake pads to fix this issue(and according to Nitro websites the brake thing is a real issue). So I tried for months to trade it away, no one wanted it. No dealer would give me anything close to what I owed . I like most began to struggle with the raising prices of gas these past few months ($75-90.00 a week in gas), and I figured it was time to bite the bullet and go used to get out from under the Nitro. However I kept searching and found myself sitting inside something I thought I'd never buy a Kia. 2 hours later I was rid of my Nitro and already saving money on gas!!! The Nitro reviews say you will love it or hate it. Our relationship ended in hate.
dreamt of this car for three yrs to be dissapointe
I should have just kept dreaming about owning, I would have been happier. To much needs to be fixed.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2008 Dodge Nitro's built-in tech and entertainment were relatively basic for its time. Standard features included an AM/FM/CD stereo, but more advanced options like a navigation system were available. The entertainment system was adequate, but not particularly impressive compared to newer vehicles.
Driver-assistance features were limited, with standard features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC). Optional safety features included side curtain airbags. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking available.
The 2008 Dodge Nitro received mixed crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). While it performed reasonably well in some tests, it received lower ratings in others, particularly for side impacts. The standard safety features provided a basic level of protection, but the lack of advanced driver-assistance technologies made it less safe than more modern vehicles. Potential buyers should research specific crash-test results for the 2008 model year before making a purchase decision. Upgrading the audio system was a common aftermarket modification for Nitro owners.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Clearcoat
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Inferno Red Crystal Pearlcoat
Light Graystone Pearlcoat
Marine Blue Pearlcoat
Stone White Clearcoat
Interior Colors
Dark Slate Gray
Khaki

2008 Dodge Nitro Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2008 Dodge Nitro ranged from approximately $20,000 to $30,000, depending on the trim level and options. Currently, used market prices typically range from $4,000 to $8,000, varying based on condition, mileage, and location. The Nitro has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, reliability concerns, and fuel economy. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and whether it has any outstanding recalls or known issues. Models with lower mileage, a clean title, and a documented maintenance history will command higher prices.

2008 Dodge Nitro Cost of Ownership

The 2008 Dodge Nitro is generally considered moderately costly to own. Insurance rates are typically average for its class. Fuel costs are high due to its poor fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant due to potential reliability issues and the age of the vehicle. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent major problems. Long-term ownership costs can be higher than some competitors due to the combined effects of fuel consumption, potential repairs, and depreciation. Be prepared for potentially higher than average repair bills.

2008 Dodge Nitro Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2008 Dodge Nitro Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2008 Dodge Nitro Recalls & Defects

Parking Brake
Recall date 2008-10-08
Recall no. 08v525000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler IS Recalling 3,663 MY 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro and MY 2008 Jeep Liberty Vehicles Equipped With Manual Transmissions. THE Park Brake Lever Clutch Drum MAY Distort and Reduce THE Effectiveness OF THE Park Brake System.
Consequence This Could Allow THE Vehicle TO Move Inadvertently and Cause A Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Park Brake Lever Assembly Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 27, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes Chrysler Recall NO. H28.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:driveline:driveshaft
Recall date 2013-04-03
Recall no. 13v121000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro 4X2 Vehicles Manufactured March 21, 2006, Through March 1, 2008; and 2008 Jeep Liberty 4X2 Vehicles Manufactured February 15, 2007, Through March 1, 2008. THE Transfer Case Heat Shield MAY Drop Down and RUB ON THE Drive Shaft, Weakening IT and Potentially Causing THE Drive Shaft TO Break.
Consequence IF THE Drive Shaft Breaks, A Section OF IT CAN Strike THE Transfer Case Tunnel With Enough Force That THE Airbag Computer Will Believe THE Vehicle IS IN A Crash and Thus Deploy THE Airbags. Additionally, THE Drive Shaft Failure Will Result IN A Loss OF Motive Power. Either Condition MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will ADD A Bracket TO Support THE Rear OF THE Heat Shield, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Letter WAS Mailed TO Owners ON MAY 29, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Number IS N10.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date 2013-04-03
Recall no. 13v121000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro 4X2 Vehicles Manufactured March 21, 2006, Through March 1, 2008; and 2008 Jeep Liberty 4X2 Vehicles Manufactured February 15, 2007, Through March 1, 2008. THE Transfer Case Heat Shield MAY Drop Down and RUB ON THE Drive Shaft, Weakening IT and Potentially Causing THE Drive Shaft TO Break.
Consequence IF THE Drive Shaft Breaks, A Section OF IT CAN Strike THE Transfer Case Tunnel With Enough Force That THE Airbag Computer Will Believe THE Vehicle IS IN A Crash and Thus Deploy THE Airbags. Additionally, THE Drive Shaft Failure Will Result IN A Loss OF Motive Power. Either Condition MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will ADD A Bracket TO Support THE Rear OF THE Heat Shield, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Letter WAS Mailed TO Owners ON MAY 29, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Number IS N10.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure
Recall date 2013-04-03
Recall no. 13v121000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro 4X2 Vehicles Manufactured March 21, 2006, Through March 1, 2008; and 2008 Jeep Liberty 4X2 Vehicles Manufactured February 15, 2007, Through March 1, 2008. THE Transfer Case Heat Shield MAY Drop Down and RUB ON THE Drive Shaft, Weakening IT and Potentially Causing THE Drive Shaft TO Break.
Consequence IF THE Drive Shaft Breaks, A Section OF IT CAN Strike THE Transfer Case Tunnel With Enough Force That THE Airbag Computer Will Believe THE Vehicle IS IN A Crash and Thus Deploy THE Airbags. Additionally, THE Drive Shaft Failure Will Result IN A Loss OF Motive Power. Either Condition MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will ADD A Bracket TO Support THE Rear OF THE Heat Shield, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Letter WAS Mailed TO Owners ON MAY 29, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Number IS N10.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering: Steering Wheel/Handle BAR
Recall date 2020-07-07
Recall no. 20v396000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro Vehicles. These Vehicles MAY Have A Loose or Missing Brand Emblem IN THE Center OF THE Steering Wheel. THE Loose Emblem or THE Securing Nuts FOR THE Emblem Within THE Driver AIR BAG Module MAY Become Projectiles IN THE Event OF A Driver AIR BAG Deployment.
Consequence Projectiles AS A Result OF Driver AIR BAG Deployment IN THE Event OF A Crash CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR BAG Cover With A Redesigned Cover, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 11, 2021. Owners MAY Contact FCA US LLC Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS W09.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-07-07
Recall no. 20v396000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro Vehicles. These Vehicles MAY Have A Loose or Missing Brand Emblem IN THE Center OF THE Steering Wheel. THE Loose Emblem or THE Securing Nuts FOR THE Emblem Within THE Driver AIR BAG Module MAY Become Projectiles IN THE Event OF A Driver AIR BAG Deployment.
Consequence Projectiles AS A Result OF Driver AIR BAG Deployment IN THE Event OF A Crash CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR BAG Cover With A Redesigned Cover, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 11, 2021. Owners MAY Contact FCA US LLC Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS W09.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2008 Dodge Nitro Insurance

Insurance for a 2008 Dodge Nitro is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2008 Dodge Nitro Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2008 Dodge Nitro competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape. In terms of performance, the Nitro's optional 4.0L V6 provided decent power but lacked the refinement of rivals. Feature-wise, it offered a comparable level of equipment, but its interior quality trailed behind. Reliability was a major weakness compared to the RAV4 and CR-V, which are known for their dependability. Price-wise, the Nitro was generally more affordable than its Japanese competitors when new, but its higher long-term ownership costs can offset the initial savings.
Better alternatives include the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V for their superior reliability and fuel economy. The Ford Escape offered a more refined driving experience and better fuel efficiency. Similar alternatives, if you're drawn to the Nitro's styling, might include the Jeep Liberty, but it shares some of the same reliability concerns. Ultimately, the Nitro is a less practical choice than its main rivals due to its reliability issues and poor fuel economy. Consider competitors that offer more value and peace of mind.

Ranks #1873 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0β˜…)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0β˜…)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0β˜…)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0β˜…)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0β˜…)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0β˜…)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0β˜…)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0β˜…)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0β˜…)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0β˜…)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0β˜…)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0β˜…)
1873 2008 Dodge Nitro (5.0β˜…)

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Dodge Nitro a Good Wagon?

The 2008 Dodge Nitro is ideal for buyers who prioritize bold styling and a rugged appearance over fuel efficiency and reliability. It might be worth buying used if found at a very low price and with a thoroughly documented maintenance history. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential. The SLT trim offers a good balance of features, but consider the 3.7L V6 for better fuel economy, if performance isn't a top priority. However, buyers should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance and repair costs. Ultimately, there are more practical and reliable options available in the compact SUV segment, so carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

2008 Dodge Nitro Owner Reviews

4.10
Consumer Rating, Based on 47 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Peggy on June 5, 2022

Love my Nitro

Had the car for 15 years with no problems. It's still like new with 18K miles on the odometer.It should last my whole life. thanks

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Mama on March 25, 2022

Don't buy this 2008 Dodge Nitro

Over heating,no heat in the winter oil usage no matter how often I change the oil it's still not enough after a few weeks the starter never starts up it's over heats, shuts down worst used car ever tons of bad reviews never should have purchased this lemon windows jams or don't open,window shattered because of defective window pieces inside the door, heating system has meltting substances that cause the line that feed the Hester to clog up the engine shuts down down every other day since I purchased this used car has been nightmare the cost of the driver's side window and door mechanism cost me $680 to repair,we've change battery terminals, alternator,change the oil several times there way to many bad reviews to name them but here's a lidt above of what I am having to replace in five shorts months it's been driven 2 months and those two months was probs please don't buy this car don't waste ur hard earm money there should be a huge lawsuit then there a recall on air bags,and the window defects

Was this review helpful?
0
1

It's me! on October 10, 2020

Current owner

Bought this car used about 5 years ago, has 169k miles to date and continues to run strong. It's had the usual tune ups, replacement of parts, etc., and is only 30k miles from hitting the 200k mark.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

MPABLO on January 7, 2020

Well cared for SUV!

Roomy SUV that has had its routine maintenance all the years I've owned it. Expanding our family, so need a 3rd row otherwise we'd keep it

Was this review helpful?
1
0

booooo on November 6, 2019

nice for the price

good on and off road. easy to get through the woods. keeps me from walking too far. also good on the main roads and gets you through the snow.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Kak on August 23, 2019

I got a lemon

I have a 2008 nitro bought used 82000 miles. Ive had nothing but trouble one after the other. Read reviews was excited to get it. I got a lemon. Id return it today if i could

Was this review helpful?
0
1

malft on August 10, 2019

What have I done???

Got this SUV because I needed a 4X4 for winter driving and this is what I could get. Not as limber as I used to be, so I hit my head getting in, every time. I want to kill the guy that designed this. The seats are too high and not adjustable. So I hit my head. The key fob stopped working so I put in a new battery. It still doesn't work, and I can't get into my car. Now, what?????

Was this review helpful?
0
1

Rosa hilda on July 15, 2019

Can be better

I wish they would just take care of the minor problem that's all I want I would be a very happy camper thank u very much

Was this review helpful?
0
1

Dalan on April 17, 2019

Amazing smooth vehicle

This vehicle is what I was looking for to carry all my fishing stuff my boat even my golf clubs so yes there is allot of room in them, even better it has a sunroof touchscreen and a DVD player

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Donna Cantrell on March 27, 2019

Love this place

They sell quality vehicles for the $$$$$ these guys make it work with the finances I had down ....... would refer Everyond to do business with them

Was this review helpful?
1
0
Author Image
Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehiclesβ€”starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.