What transmission does a Dodge Nitro have?
The Dodge Nitro uses a four-speed automatic transmission across both engine options. No manual transmission was offered for this model. The SUV was produced for the 2007 through 2011 model years, with some markets extending into early 2012.
Transmission options by engine
Two V6 engines were offered in the Nitro, and both were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive setup uses the same transmission behind a transfer case, not a different gearbox.
- 3.7L V6 engine — four-speed automatic transmission
- 4.0L V6 engine — four-speed automatic transmission
Note: All-wheel-drive variants use the same four-speed automatic behind a transfer case; there is no alternate transmission for AWD.
Bottom line: Dodge Nitro’s drivetrain relied on a single four-speed automatic transmission across its engine and drivetrain configurations.
Model years and production context
The Nitro was introduced for the 2007 model year and continued through 2011 in most markets, with some regions seeing continued availability into early 2012. Across these years, no manual gearbox option was offered for the Nitro.
Maintenance and reliability considerations
Because the Nitro uses a four-speed automatic transmission, routine maintenance focuses on the correct transmission fluid type and regular changes per the owner's manual. Common aging-related issues can include rough or delayed shifting, slipping, or failure to engage, which often point to fluid wear, valve-body wear, or internal band/seal wear. If such symptoms appear, consulting a qualified technician for a fluid service, diagnostic check, or further inspection is advised.
Summary
The Dodge Nitro’s transmission setup is straightforward: a single four-speed automatic drives its two V6 engines (3.7L and 4.0L) across both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. There was no manual option, and production spanned roughly 2007 to 2011 (with limited markets extending into 2012).
