2019 — 2024
5.7L V8 Hemi (MDS)
Petrol
Listen closely near the front wheel arches during a cold start for a prominent metallic clicking (Hemi Tick) that indicates sheared manifold bolts or collapsed roller lifters.
Drive at steady highway speeds (60-80 km/h) to allow MDS to trigger, feeling for heavy cabin shudder or drivetrain hunting during 4-to-8 cylinder transitions.
Cycle the closed-loop air suspension from Entry/Exit to Off-Road 2, checking for excessive compressor noise or slow raising times caused by micro-leaks.
Thoroughly check the rear passengers footwells, back wall, and headliner for dampness or water staining caused by defective third brake light and sliding window seals.
Routine oil service using high-grade MS-6395 5W-20 oil. Rotate heavy tyres and inspect front suspension components which experience accelerated wear on winding NZ roads.
Replace all 16 spark plugs to prevent ignition stress on the MDS system. Flush front/rear differentials and transfer case fluids if frequently towing boats or trailers.
Perform a complete transmission fluid and integrated pan/filter exchange (ZF 8HP75). Flush engine coolant loop and inspect the water pump for dried pink crust weeping.
Strictly utilize premium 5W-20 synthetic oil meeting FCA MS-6395 specification to safeguard the delicate variable valve timing and MDS lifters.
Avoid prolonged engine idling, as low oil pressure at idle is a direct contributing factor to premature roller lifter failure and scored camshafts.
Clear panoramic sunroof drain tubes and clear cowl debris regularly to prevent water from shorting out the rear-mounted RF Hub electronic module.
Inspect the active front air dam under the front bumper for correct deployment, as NZ unsealed gravel roads easily damage the motorized actuator.
Verify that the 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen is free of bubbling or ghost touches, which indicates internal screen delamination.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
Required if a persistent valvetrain tick damages the camshaft lobe. Highly technical top-end engine teardown requiring an American vehicle specialist.
Accessing the passenger-side manifold is heavily restricted by custom RHD steering shaft conversion clearance constraints, driving up NZ labor costs.
If the closed-loop bellows leak or the compressor burns out, replacement struts are premium imports. Many Kiwi owners opt for standard coil conversions.
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Disclaimer: This report is generated with the assistance of AI analysis based on verified automotive data. While we strive for 100% accuracy, enthusiasts should always conduct physical inspections and consult service records. View Full Disclaimer