How long does a 2017 Dodge Challenger last?

With proper maintenance, a 2017 Dodge Challenger can reasonably reach 200,000 miles or more; actual longevity depends on maintenance, driving habits, and climate.

Understanding longevity in context

The 2017 Challenger lineup includes several engine options, from the 3.6L Pentastar V6 to the 5.7L and 6.4L Hemi V8, plus high-performance variants like the supercharged Hellcat. Broadly speaking, modern Dodge Challengers can be long-lasting vehicles if they are well cared for, but the upper limit is shaped by how the car is driven and serviced. Routine maintenance, timely part replacements, and careful driving habits all influence whether a Challenger reaches the 200,000-mile milestone or beyond.

Key factors that influence lifespan

The durability of a 2017 Challenger is shaped by several interrelated factors. The list below highlights the most consequential elements owners should consider to maximize the car’s usable life.

• Maintenance and service history: Regular oil changes, fluid flushes, belt/chain checks, and timely component replacements significantly extend life.


• Driving style: Predominantly highway cruising generally imposes less stress than frequent hard acceleration, aggressive shifting, or track-style driving.


• Climate and environment: Salt exposure, humidity, and temperature swings can affect corrosion resistance and cooling-system wear.


• Powertrain variant: Non-supercharged V6 and naturally aspirated V8 models tend to have lower inherent stress than the supercharged Hellcat, though all require diligent care.


• Maintenance of cooling and lubrication systems: The Challenger’s engines and, in some trims, the supercharger system, run hot under heavy use; keeping cooling fans, radiators, and fluids in good condition matters greatly.

Bottom line: a well-maintained Challenger, regardless of trim, has a strong chance of lasting into the 200,000-mile range or higher, while lapses in upkeep can shorten that horizon.

Maintenance practices that support longevity

Adopting a proactive maintenance routine is the best way to push a 2017 Challenger toward or beyond the 200,000-mile mark. The following practices are commonly recommended by manufacturers and independent technicians alike.

• Follow the owner's manual for fluids and service intervals, including oil changes with quality synthetic oil and periodic transmission and cooling-system service.


• Monitor and replace cooling-system components as needed to prevent overheating, especially in high-performance variants.


• Inspect brakes, suspension, and steering components regularly to catch abnormal wear early.


• Use high-quality fuels and maintain fuel-system cleanliness to protect the intake and fuel injectors.


• Address rust protection and underbody corrosion prevention in climates with heavy road salt or moisture.

Maintaining these practices helps reduce the likelihood of premature failures and keeps the car operating smoothly as it ages.

Engine options and reliability

Variant impact on longevity

The 2017 Challenger’s engine lineup includes:

• 3.6L Pentastar V6: Generally durable and efficient for everyday use; longevity closely tied to routine maintenance.


• 5.7L Hemi V8: A robust, traditional V8 with strong long-term durability when properly serviced.


• 6.4L Hemi (392) and 6.2L Supercharged Hellcat: High-performance powertrains that endure well under proper maintenance but can incur higher maintenance costs and cooling requirements due to heat and stress.

In all cases, the key to maximizing life is consistent maintenance, attentive cooling and lubrication systems, and avoiding prolonged neglect or abuse. High-performance variants may demand more frequent inspections of cooling, oiling, and supercharger systems, but many examples still achieve high mileages with diligent care.

What to expect in real-world usage

Owners with a disciplined maintenance routine often report seeing well over 150,000 miles, and many exceed 200,000 miles. Some enthusiasts with meticulous care and careful driving have logged even higher, though those cases typically involve costlier routine maintenance and part replacements along the way.

Summary

For a 2017 Dodge Challenger, longevity hinges on maintenance quality, driving habits, and climate. With regular service—oil and fluid changes, cooling-system upkeep, and timely part replacement—a Challenger can reasonably reach 200,000 miles or more, with the potential for higher mileage in well-cared-for examples. The specific engine (V6, Hemi, or Hellcat) influences maintenance demands and potential running costs, but none of the variants inherently prevents long life when properly cared for.

Final takeaway

If you’re evaluating a used 2017 Challenger or aiming to maximize its lifespan, prioritize a thorough maintenance plan from day one, stay on top of cooling and lubrication systems, and be mindful of the higher service needs of performance variants. A well-maintained Challenger is a durable, long-lasting muscle car that can keep rolling for many years and miles.

What year Dodge Challenger 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. 

How many years do Dodge Challengers last?

A Dodge Challenger's lifespan can range from 16-20 years or 200,000 to over 400,000 miles with proper maintenance, but this varies based on the engine, model year, and driving conditions. While the V6 and HEMI V8 engines are known to be durable, issues like alternator or transmission problems can arise, especially in certain model years, so consistent servicing is key.
 
This video discusses the reliability of Dodge Challengers and common issues: 56sBack Seat DriverYouTube · Jun 2, 2019
Factors influencing longevity

• Maintenance: Adhering to the recommended service schedule is crucial for longevity. Issues can occur if a vehicle is not properly maintained. 
• Engine: The 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 5.7L HEMI V8 are generally considered durable with robust components. 
• Driving conditions: How the car is driven significantly impacts its lifespan. Aggressive driving, in particular, can put extra strain on components like the transmission. 
• Model year: Some model years have known issues. For example, the 2011-2013 models had a common alternator problem. Newer models, especially from 2019-2023, are considered more reliable. 

Potential issues and their timelines

• Alternator: Some models have experienced alternator failure around 25,000 miles, sometimes due to recalls. 
• Transmission: Transmissions can experience issues, especially with aggressive driving, which could shorten the car's life. 
• Other components: Other parts, such as the thermostat or blend door actuator, may need replacing around 120,000-130,000 miles. 

Tips for extending your Challenger's life

• Follow the maintenance schedule outlined in the owner's manual. 
• Address any recall or TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins) promptly. 
• Be mindful of aggressive driving habits that can cause premature wear on the engine and transmission. 

How many miles can a 2017 Dodge Challenger last?

The Dodge Challenger may not be known for its reliability, but many owners have testified to its overall longevity. Based on many owner accounts and our research, the Dodge Challenger can reach or exceed 200,000 miles without major mechanical issues – thanks to the car's sturdy construction and build quality.

Can a Dodge Challenger last 300k miles?

The better care you take of your Dodge Challenger - or any vehicle, for that matter - the longer it will last you! Assuming you take good care of your Dodge Challenger, it will could last 200,000 miles or more.