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Are Dodge Chargers reliable cars?

The Dodge Charger is a popular American muscle car known for its powerful engines and bold styling. However, when it comes to reliability, the Charger's reputation is more mixed. While the Charger can be a thrilling and enjoyable vehicle to drive, it may not be the most dependable choice for some car buyers.


Dodge Charger Reliability Ratings


According to industry experts and consumer reviews, the Dodge Charger's reliability can vary depending on the model year and specific configuration. The Charger's reliability ratings tend to be average or slightly below average compared to other vehicles in its class. Some model years have performed better than others, with more recent versions generally scoring higher on reliability surveys.


One of the key factors affecting the Charger's reliability is its powerful engine options. The high-performance engines found in many Charger models require more maintenance and can be more prone to issues over time. Owners of V8-powered Chargers, especially those with the Hellcat or Redeye trims, may experience more frequent repair needs and higher ownership costs.


Common Dodge Charger Problems



  • Transmission issues, including jerky shifting or complete transmission failure

  • Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning infotainment systems or electrical component failures

  • Engine problems, including oil leaks, engine knocks, and other mechanical issues

  • Suspension and steering problems, leading to poor handling or premature wear of components


While these issues are not universal across all Charger models, they have been reported by some owners, particularly with older or higher-mileage vehicles. Proper maintenance and care can help mitigate these problems, but they are still something to consider when purchasing a Dodge Charger.


Factors to Consider


When evaluating the reliability of a Dodge Charger, it's important to consider several factors, including:



  • Model year: Newer Charger models tend to be more reliable than older ones, as Dodge has made improvements over time.

  • Engine configuration: V8-powered Chargers may require more maintenance and be more prone to issues than V6 models.

  • Driving conditions and usage: Chargers used for high-performance driving or in harsh environments may experience more wear and tear.

  • Maintenance history: Well-maintained Chargers are more likely to be reliable than those with a spotty service record.


Ultimately, the Dodge Charger can be a fun and exciting car to own, but its reliability may not be on par with some of its competitors. Prospective buyers should carefully research the model year, engine, and maintenance history before making a purchase decision.

What is the most common problem with Dodge Chargers?


Transmission issues are frequent in both the Dodge Challenger and Charger models. These problems include harsh shifting, jerking during gear changes, and delayed gear engagement. Some owners have reported the vehicle refusing to shift gears or slipping into neutral unexpectedly, creating serious safety risks.



What year Charger to stay away from?


You should avoid some of the years of Dodge Charger while choosing to get the best consumption. The avoidable years of Dodge Chargers are 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012, and 2014. Moreover, the best years of Dodge Chargers are 2009, 2010, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.



Why is insurance on Dodge Charger so expensive?


The Dodge Charger is an iconic American muscle car — and one of the most expensive vehicles to insure. As a high-performance vehicle, it's more likely to be involved in a crash, leading to liability and collision claims for insurance companies.



Which year is the Dodge Charger most reliable?


What model year Dodge Charger is best? With almost six decades of history, it's hard to consider just one of the Dodge Charger model years as the best. However, versions like the 2019 Dodge Charger have a great price and one of the highest reliability ratings in the model's history.



Do Chargers break over time?


In general, a high-quality charger can last for 2 to 3 years, while a cheaper charger may only last for 1 year or less.



Are Dodge Chargers expensive to fix?


The average annual repair cost for a Dodge is $634, which means it has above average ownership costs.



Do Dodge Chargers last long?


With regular servicing, a Dodge Charger can last between 150,000 and 300,000 miles, translating to about 10–15 years of use for the average driver. Factors affecting durability include servicing habits, driving conditions, and overall build quality.



What is the most reliable car model?


Consumer Reports' 10 most reliable car models

  • Toyota RAV4. CR reliability score: 86. Overall CR score: 76.
  • Toyota Corolla. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. CR reliability score: 83.
  • BMW i4. CR reliability score: 82.



Is a Dodge Charger a reliable vehicle?


For those contemplating the Dodge Charger, the evidence speaks volumes. With high reliability scores, a strong record of longevity, and manageable maintenance needs, the Charger stands out as a dependable choice.



What are the cons of a Dodge Charger?


What We Love: 2022 Dodge Charger Pros

  • Pro: Safe Ride Experience.
  • Pro: Deluxe Security Alarm.
  • Pro: Premium Audio System.
  • Pro: Sleek Appearance.
  • Con: Expensive High-Performance Selections.
  • Con: Low Reliability for Class.
  • Con: Lacking Fuel Economy in V8 Engines.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.