Dodge Charger Reliability: Here’s What You Need To Know

Have you noticed how some cars are deemed timeless? Especially the ones with the muscle frame have been capturing our imagination for decades now. One such car is the famous Dodge Charger. Before you go ahead and buy one, it is time to find out if it is reliable or not.

Today, we will answer this very important question, are Dodge Chargers reliable? By the end of this article, you will not only know the answer to this question but also which Dodge Charger you should go ahead with.

Are Dodge Chargers Reliable Cars?

Yes, a Dodge Charger is certainly a reliable car. The only caveat being you should know which model you should go with. Even when you research online, you will find out that some models are much more reliable than others. That is why you need to choose carefully.

Wondering which are these more reliable models? Read on to find out. Before that, however, we will cover how long Dodge Chargers last so that you can shortlist the right models.

How Long Do Dodge Chargers Usually Last?

Dodge Chargers can easily last for 200,000 to 250,000 miles. If you cover the same distance as an average American driver, you can easily extract 10 to 15 years from your Dodge Charger. While buying one, you have to keep this range in mind before shortlisting the right model.

Of course, if you want to extract the maximum fifteen years from a Dodge Charger, you should follow a few simple tips that we will highlight below.

1.     Ensure proper tire pressure

There is a misconception that no tire pressure will affect just the tires. That’s not true! You have to always ensure that the tire pressure is appropriate during long trips especially.

It affects the entire car, and therefore if you want to ensure that your Dodge Charger lasts for a long time, you have to check the tire pressure frequently and ensure that it is at adequate levels.

2.     Change oil every 5,000 miles

Most of us do not put time and effort into maintaining our cars. However, if you want your Dodge Charger to last for 15 years, you have no other option but to change the oil frequently. That will keep the engine parts lubricated.

The question which then arises is, how often should you change the oil? It is good to change the oil every 5,000 miles. That way, the efficiency of the oil will be maintained, and the wear and tear of your engine will be on the lower side.

3.    Do not miss the service

If you refer to the manual of your Dodge Charger, it will recommend a service periodically. During the initial years, the company will provide you with free services. The services help you maintain your car in perfect shape, and therefore you can use it for 10 to 15 years.

The point we are trying to make is that you shouldn’t skip out on the free service or the periodic service that your Dodge Charger requires.

4.    Park it in the right space

You might be thinking, how does the parking location matter? Yes, it does! Ideally, you should always park the car charger in the garage. You should avoid parking it on the street. When you park it in a garage or shade, you provide it with proper protection from weather elements.

When you want to use the car for as long as 15 years, you need to protect it from weather elements, especially when parked. That is why always ensure that you park the car in the right space.

5.    Be proactive when fixing issues

Do you hear any sound while driving your Dodge Charger? Is your Dodge Charger not starting seamlessly?

If you notice any of these issues or other issues, you have to be proactive in fixing them. Most of us ignore these issues unless and until they start troubling us or the car doesn’t move. However, by then, the damage has been done.

The best way to ensure that your Dodge Charger stands the test of time is to be proactive in fixing these issues. Whenever you notice them, you try and fix them as soon as possible.

6.    Keep it clean

Many car owners maintain the engine and the other parts of the car. What we often ignore is the exterior of the car. That is what bears the wrath of weather. That is why you need to always keep it clean. When you do so, you need not worry about corrosion, rust, or any other damage to the car’s surface.

Expert Tip: These six simple tips will allow you to extract 250,000 miles from your Dodge Charger easily.

Do Dodge Chargers Have A Lot Of Problems?

Some models of Dodge Charger certainly have quite a few problems. It is best to avoid them (list shared below). The most common problems with such models include:

1.     PCM problem

PCM problem is pretty common with some models of Dodge Chargers. Whenever you change the gears, it will lead to shuddering. Fortunately, these problems require a software update. That is why a trip to the local car dealership will help you resolve this problem.

The good news is that this problem is frequent in the older Dodge Chargers. Once the car has covered something like 80,000 miles, the problem is frequent. Otherwise, this problem isn’t an issue.

2.     Transmission issues

Some Dodge Charger owners have also reported issues with the transmission control module. When the car suffers from PCM issues, it suffers from this issue. However, it is noticeable only when you shift your gear from the 4th to the 3rd crudely.

Once again, this problem can occur only after your car has covered 100,000 miles or so.

3.     Power windows not working

Power windows issues are common in any car, especially once it has covered 150,000 miles. The same is the case with Dodge Charger as well. However, merely by repairing it for $200, you will be able to fix the issue.

4.     Electrical issues

Cables and connectors certainly suffer from wear and tear and corrosion over time. That is why, once the car has crossed 180,000 miles, such problems can plague Dodge Charger. In most cases, replacing a connector or a wire would fix the problem.

5.     Light issues

Some models of Dodge Chargers, especially those from 2006 to 2014, suffered from interior light issues as well. Fortunately, it was just a software problem, and a minor update resolved the issue.

If you get a Dodge Charger, and it suffers from internal lighting issues, you won’t have to spend a lot of money. Merely opting for a software update will do the trick.

6.     Foul smell from air conditioning

The strange odor from air conditioning is another common problem for Dodge Charger owners. However, this is due to the clogged air conditioning filter. The periodic servicing will take care of that.

7.     Failed thermostat

A failed thermostat is easy to fix. However, this problem only occurs after the Dodge Charger has covered 150,000 miles. In most cases, the sensor is the issue.

Do not be fooled by the list of these issues. Like most other cars, these issues resolve after they have covered over 100,000 miles. Also, these are rare occurrences even in Dodge Chargers that covered 100,000 miles.

Just because some other Dodge Charger car owners have experienced these issues, it doesn’t mean that your Dodge Charger will also suffer from the same.

What Dodge Charger Year Is The Most Reliable?

Now is the time to look at the most reliable Dodge Charger models and the most unreliable ones. Let us first start with the Dodge Charger models that are most reliable.

1.    2020 Dodge Charger

The 2020 Dodge Charger can be considered to be the most reliable model. Even though this model was launched two years back, it is pretty reliable. Also, since it comes with numerous engine options, you can choose the engine you prefer the most. This model will not disappoint you, whether you usually take long trips or short ones.

2.     2021 Dodge Charger

The 2021 Dodge Charger just has a few changes from the 2020 model. Needless to say, it is extremely reliable. Also, the comfort level is better due to its excellent seats and the lumbar support it offers. Technology-wise, it also offers you the Uconnect system, which makes it a good choice.

3.      2018 Dodge Charger

The 2018 Dodge Charger provides excellent acceleration, handle, and steering. It also has the same connectivity options as the 2021 and therefore entertainment-wise, you won’t be disappointed either.

While the seats might not be as comfortable as the 2021 but driving-wise, it will not provide you with a reason to complain.

4.     2019 Dodge Charger

The performance of the 2019 Dodge Charger is excellent. However, the only reason it is fourth on this list is because of its fuel consumption. It is likely on the higher side. However, that is compensated by the numerous safety features like sensors, airbags, etc. The sleek interior design does not disappoint either.

5.     2017 Dodge Charger

2017 Dodge Charger does not face any performance issues as such. Only the interior is a bit cramped. As compared to other cars, it will not appear cramped. However, when you compare it with the usual standards of Dodge Charger, you will notice the difference.

With all the safety features included in this one and a powerful V8 engine, it will not give you a reason to complain.

6.     2009 Dodge Charger

Many might be surprised to find the 2009 Dodge Charger on this list. However, despite it being of the older generation, it certainly is a reliable option. The V-6 engine is pretty powerful and quite affordable as well. That is why if you want to get a Dodge Charger that is affordable, this is the one which you should go with.

While buying a Dodge Charger, keep these models in mind as they are your best bet.

What Dodge Charger Year Is The Least Reliable?

Now is the time to look at some of the models which are not that reliable. It is no surprise that the list below consists mostly of the older models.

1.     2006 Dodge Charger

The 2006 model of the Dodge Charger is the one that you need to avoid. It has numerous engine issues and suspension issues. By now, most cars manufactured this year would have covered a significant number of miles, and therefore buying them means that you will have to handle a lot of different issues.

2.     2011 Dodge Charger

2011 Dodge Charger, on the other hand, had numerous electrical and fuel system problems. Another issue was that you had to spend a significant amount of money to tackle these. Even after the company invested a lot of time and effort in fixing these issues right out of the factory, the success achieved was limited.

Frequent shuddering of the alternator, fuel pump, and even the air conditioning system made this model infamous.

3.     2007 Dodge Charger

The 2007 Dodge Charger suffered from engine and transmission issues. The gear went off and got stuck once the car covered 100,000 miles or so. That is why it was plagued by serious issues. A small percentage of owners also experienced a blown engine that needed a complete replacement. Needless to say, it was a costly affair to fix the issues of this model.

4.     2008 Dodge Charger

Even after the issues faced with the 2007 Dodge Charger, the company did not improve much when it came to the 2008 Dodge Charger. It had numerous safety issues. In some of the cars, the child safety locks simply did not work.

Apart from this, the company also received numerous complaints regarding engine problems and ticking noises, especially at high speeds. While the problems might have been different from the 2007 model but the 2008 Dodge Charger certainly faced a handful of issues.

5.     2012 Dodge Charger

Electrical problems were the waterloo of the 2012 Dodge Charger. Many times, the alternator would fail to work, and therefore you could not even move the vehicle even an inch. Problems with the electric systems also meant that you would not be able to use many of the functions of this vehicle. Apart from that, the ticking noise issue was common with this model as well.

6.     2014 Dodge Charger

While this might be a recent Dodge Charger model but it also faces engine issues and loss of power. Many times, during acceleration, the car owners often experienced lag as well.

To be completely clear, not every car manufactured in those years suffered from this issue. However, the percentage of Dodge cars of these respective years that suffered from these issues is certainly higher as compared to the average car. That is why, if you plan to buy a Dodge car, it is best to avoid models of these years.

Is It Worth Buying A Dodge Charger?

Yes. It is certainly worth buying a Dodge Charger. However, you need to strictly avoid the models which are the least reliable (mentioned above). If you buy a new Dodge Charger right off the bat, that is your best option. Other than that, you have to go with reliable models.

In fact, when you get a Dodge Charger, there are numerous pros to buying one that we will cover below.

Pros

Detailed styling

Dodge Charger has excellent detailing. In fact, such an aggressive look and sporty style are missing in many other cars. That is why Dodge Charger is still famous today.

Not to speak of the fact that the company has made cosmetic changes time and again to ensure that the look is modernized yet aggressive.

Muscle car frame

There are very few muscle frame cars that come with modern amenities. Dodge Charger perfectly balances the muscle car look along with the modern amenities you might expect from a car.

Powerful engine

Hardly anyone would doubt the powerful V8 engines. In fact, the shudder comes from accelerating it and has a separate fan base altogether. Couple that with the power which it provides you on the road, and it is easy to understand why you should get a Dodge Charger.

Comes with a touch screen

Modern Dodge Charger models come with their own touch screens. That is why, whether you want to play your favorite song or control any other function of the car, you can do so with the help of the touchscreen.

Excellent sound system

Another advantage of the Dodge Charger is its excellent sound system. Not only is the engine powerful, but also its sound system, which is why you can enjoy your favorite music with crisp and clean sound coming out from the various speakers installed within the car.

Are these good enough reasons to get a Dodge Charger? Of course, they are!

How Does A Dodge Chargers Reliability Compare To Other Cars?

It is time to understand how Dodge Charger fares against other cars.

The Dodge Charger comes with a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty. For the first five years or 60,000 miles, you have a warranty on the powertrain as well. Both these clearly indicate how confident the company is about its car. Not only that, these warranties are better than the industry average as well. It certainly indicates that, as compared to the other cars, Dodge Charger is certainly reliable.

Truth be told, most of the problems of the Dodge Charger were in the older generation, that is from 2006 to 2011. It is best to avoid those. Even in those models, the problems usually cropped up after the car covered 100,000 miles, and even so, they were in a small percentage of the total cars made in that year.

In modern models, these issues aren’t experienced by most owners. The company, over the years, has worked on not only the mechanical aspects of the car but also the interior and exterior of the car, and therefore these problems are a thing of the past.

Considering all these factors, the Dodge Charger is certainly reliable, if not more than any other car model you can compare it with.

Are Dodge Chargers Reliable in Snow?

Despite having a low ground clearance which is 4.9 inches, which is quite below when compared to that of an SUV, truck, or crossover, Dodge Charges handle mobility in the snow very well.

This is in spite of the fact that most Dodge Chargers are rear-wheel drive. But the low ground clearance can be advantageous when driving in snow and winter conditions, as long as the snow falling is generally light. Its low center of gravity minimizes the risk of rolling over because the Dodge Charger will hug the road.

Consider all these features which enable you to drive the Dodge Charger with ease in light snow and winter conditions. They are driver-assist features that will help you in a lot of unexpected situations. Features like Electronic Stability Control, Rain Brake Support, All-Speed Traction Control, and Anti Lock Brakes.

Expert Tip: But when there’s heavy snowfall, use an SUV or 4×4 truck instead. It’s a different story.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, yes, Dodge Chargers are certainly reliable. This is absolutely true for the newer generation models from 2015. In case you’re buying an older one, we have listed the models that you should avoid above.

In case you have any more questions and queries, you can drop us a comment below, and we will answer that to the best of our ability.