Does Dodge Challenger have air suspension?
The Dodge Challenger does not come with a factory air suspension. It relies on a traditional coil-sprung setup with shock absorbers, and only certain high-performance variants offer adaptive damping—not air springs. If you’re seeking air-ride capability, you’d need an aftermarket solution.
How the Challenger handles suspension
The Challenger’s suspension strategy centers on traditional spring and damper configurations, with enhancements available on higher-performance models. Below are the main options you’ll commonly encounter across modern Challengers.
- Standard suspension: coil springs with conventional shock absorbers designed for daily usability and solid straight-line stability.
- Performance Handling Suspension: a tuned setup offered on higher-performance trims that improves handling through stiffer springs and refined damper tuning.
- Adaptive damping (electronic dampers): available on select performance variants, these dampers adjust stiffness in real time based on drive mode and road conditions to balance comfort and agility.
- Air suspension: not offered by Dodge as a factory option for the Challenger; this is an aftermarket, third-party possibility if you want air-ride capabilities.
In sum, the Challenger relies on conventional coil-spring physics with optional adaptive damping on certain trims rather than any factory air-suspension system. For riders seeking adjustable ride height or air-ride comfort, aftermarket kits are the path some owners pursue, though they come with trade-offs in warranty, ride feel, and complexity.
Are there aftermarket air suspension options?
Yes. If you’re determined to run an air-ride setup on a Challenger, aftermarket suppliers offer air suspension kits designed to provide adjustable ride height and a smoother ride at certain loads. Such installations typically include air springs, compressors, and controllers, and they can be tailored for street or performance use. However, installation is non-trivial and can affect warranty coverage, alignment, tire wear, and overall handling. Always consult with a qualified shop and consider the cost and long-term maintenance before proceeding.
Before committing to an aftermarket air-suspension install, evaluate your priorities (ride comfort, cornering feel, load handling) and compare them against the stock Adaptive Damping options already available on some Challengers. This helps ensure you’re choosing the right balance for your driving style and expectations.
Summary
Summary of the key point: The Dodge Challenger does not include a factory air-suspension option. Its suspension lineup focuses on a standard coil-spring design with optional adaptive damping on certain high-performance trims. If air suspension is essential, an aftermarket kit is required, bringing additional considerations around cost, warranty, and maintenance. For most buyers, the stock adaptive dampers offer a strong balance of performance and daily usability without the complexities of an air-spring system.
How do I know if my car has air suspension?
How do I know if my car has air suspension? Air suspension systems typically feature airbags instead of traditional metal springs. You might also notice adjustable ride height controls in your vehicle.
Why is air suspension illegal?
Some states have limits based on various measurements, like a certain number of inches off the ground or the lowest point of a wheel rim. Raised vehicles may also be subject to height limits. Any air or hydraulic suspension systems that violate these limits or make the car unsafe are also illegal.
What type of suspension does a Challenger have?
Challenger Five-Link Rear Suspension
In the good old days, Challengers and other Mopar muscle cars came equipped with leaf spring rear suspension. Third Gen Challengers come off the factory line with what is called a 5-link setup. This is used because of the independent rear suspension.
What year challengers to stay away from?
Years to generally avoid for the Dodge Challenger are 2009, 2011–2013, and 2015, due to issues like airbag defects, alternator failure, and transmission problems. The 2012 model is particularly noted for having the most complaints on sites like CarComplaints.com, with frequent alternator and transmission issues.
Model years to avoid
- 2009: Known for problems like engine shutdown and check engine lights, often related to the crankshaft position sensor.
- 2011–2013: These years had widespread issues including alternator failure, problems with the new eight-speed transmission, and some electrical issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). The 2012 model year is frequently cited as the worst due to the combination of these issues.
- 2015: Prone to electrical issues, including problems with the cruise control system and harsh transmission shifting.
Common problems in these years
- Airbag defects: Many models from 2008-2013 had faulty airbag inflators that could rupture.
- Engine and electrical problems: Common issues include alternator failure, especially in 2011-2014 models, and problems with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), which controls many of the car's electrical systems.
- Transmission issues: Early versions of the eight-speed automatic transmission in the 2012 and 2015 models were known for harsh shifting and other problems.
How to mitigate risks
- Verify recalls: Before purchasing any used Challenger, especially from one of these years, check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to ensure all recalls have been addressed.
- Check for service alerts: Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) can provide insight into common problems and potential repair procedures.
- Consider newer models: Newer models, particularly from 2019-2023, generally have a better reliability record.
