Do Dodge Challengers have cruise control?
Yes. Dodge Challengers generally come equipped with cruise control, and adaptive cruise control is available on higher trims as an optional feature. This article breaks down what to expect across model years and how to verify whether your specific Challenger has ACC.
Cruise control as a standard feature across most trims
Across the Challenger lineup, traditional cruise control is widely available and typically standard on most recent model years. This basic system maintains a set speed without the driver needing to keep constant pressure on the accelerator.
- Traditional cruise control is standard on most recent Dodge Challenger trims.
- The system supports automatic and manual-transmission configurations, depending on the model year and option package.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go is available on select trims via an optional Driver Convenience Group or similar package.
- ACC is not universal across every trim; higher-level models are more likely to offer it as an option.
In practice, this means most buyers will find basic cruise control on a broad range of Challengers, while those seeking more advanced, distance-based control should look for ACC in the vehicle’s option lists or build sheet.
Adaptive Cruise Control and optional packages
Adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead, is available on certain Challenger configurations. It is generally not standard on base models and is typically bundled with higher trims or optional packages.
- ACC with Stop & Go is offered on select trims through the Driver Convenience Group or equivalent package.
- Availability can vary by model year and market, so a dealer or the official build sheet should be consulted for a given car.
- If you’re shopping used Challengers, verify ACC via the window sticker, VIN-based option list, or by testing the steering-wheel controls and the instrument cluster prompts.
For buyers prioritizing driver-assistance features, checking the exact build and option codes is essential, as ACC may be listed as a separate upgrade rather than a package on lower trims.
How to use cruise control on a Challenger
On most Challenger models equipped with cruise control, you engage the system via the steering-wheel controls. You press and release the cruise button, accelerate to your desired speed, and then set that speed using the SET/RES controls. If ACC is present, you’ll have additional controls to set following distance and engage Stop & Go functionality depending on the system’s configuration.
Summary
In short, Dodge Challengers do have cruise control, and most recent models include it as standard equipment. Adaptive cruise control is available on select trims and packages, but it is not universal across the entire lineup. If ACC is important to you, verify the specific build or trim level and confirm with the dealership using the VIN or the window sticker.
Does the Dodge Challenger have cruise control?
Available Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a preset distance from the vehicle in front of you by automatically adjusting cruising speed.
How do you know if a car has cruise control?
To find out if your car has cruise control, check for buttons on your steering wheel or steering column, often marked with a speedometer icon or labeled "Cruise". For older or basic models, you can also check the owner's manual or use a VIN decoder. For adaptive cruise control, look for additional buttons or sensors on the steering wheel that control the distance to the car ahead, as mentioned by Reddit users and GMC.
How to tell if your car has cruise control
- Look for physical buttons: Check your steering wheel and steering column for a button or a stalk with a speedometer icon or labeled "Cruise".
- Consult the manual: Your owner's manual will have information on all standard and optional features, including cruise control.
- Use a VIN decoder: If you have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), you can enter it into an online decoder to get a detailed list of your car's features.
- Check your dashboard display: When you press the cruise control button, an indicator light on the dashboard should illuminate, confirming the system is on.
- For adaptive cruise control: Look for extra buttons on your steering wheel to adjust the following distance to the car in front. You may also see a radar icon on the dashboard.
Important considerations
- Standard vs. adaptive: Many modern cars have cruise control as a standard feature, while more advanced adaptive cruise control might be part of an optional driver-assistance package.
- Low-speed limitations: Some systems have a minimum speed to engage, often around 25 mph, though some off-road vehicles have special low-speed cruise control features.
- Overriding cruise control: Tapping the brake pedal will automatically disengage the cruise control.
- Adding cruise control: If your car doesn't have it, it's often possible to have an aftermarket cruise control system installed.
What years of Challenger to avoid?
You should be cautious with 2009-2013 Dodge Challengers due to recurring issues like alternator failure, TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) problems, and electrical and transmission issues. Older, second-generation models (1978-1983) are also best avoided due to their reliance on a different, less robust platform.
Years to approach with caution
- 2009–2013: This period is frequently cited as problematic.
- 2012: Has the most complaints, with issues including alternator failure, 8-speed transmission problems, and warped brake rotors.
- 2011-2013: Faced frequent alternator failures and TIPM issues, which can cause stalling and other electrical problems.
- 2008-2014: Experience problems with the Wireless Ignition Node (WINN) module.
- 2014–2016: These years are noted for recalls concerning passenger frontal airbag inflators, cruise control that may not cancel, and alternator failures.
Other considerations
- Second-generation (1978–1983): These models are not the modern muscle cars enthusiasts love and are often considered less reliable due to their different design.
- 2010–2015: Both the 2010 and 2015 models are mentioned as having issues with the airbag inflators, and 2015 models had recalls for passenger frontal airbags.
- 2015-2016: These years are flagged for potential electrical issues and other design flaws, particularly after the redesign in 2015.
How to set cruise control on Dodge Challenger?
And the vehicle will cruise at the speed you've selected. If you set the system at a speed above 25 mph or 40 kmh. The set speed will be the current speed of the vehicle.
