Is a Dodge a safe car?

Bottom line: safety depends on the specific model and year. In general, newer Dodge vehicles include more modern safety tech and solid crash-test results, but the level of safety features can vary by trim and generation. Always verify model-year-specific ratings from official sources before buying.

To understand how this question applies to real-world buying, this article explains how safety is measured in the industry, how ratings differ between Dodge models, and practical steps you can take to evaluate safety for a particular vehicle.

How safety ratings are measured in the United States

In the United States, three primary sources shape the safety picture for most cars: the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and independent reviews. NHTSA assigns overall and category-specific star ratings based on crash tests such as frontal, side, and rollover tests. IIHS conducts a broader set of evaluations, including crashworthiness across categories and the availability and performance of crash-avoidance and driver-assistance features. Recalls tracked by NHTSA can signal ongoing safety concerns. Together, these sources provide a baseline for comparing vehicles, but ratings can vary by model year and trim level.

Before evaluating a Dodge, consider how these sources differ in what they measure and how often ratings are updated as new testing cycles occur:

• NHTSA five-star ratings cover overall crash safety and individual test categories (frontal, side, rollover).


• IIHS ratings emphasize crashworthiness (Good/Acceptable/Poor) across multiple tests and evaluate available safety tech (e.g., automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist).


• Recalls and campaigns identified by NHTSA reflect safety issues that may require dealer intervention or parts replacement.


• Independent reviews may highlight real-world performance in scenarios not fully captured by formal tests.

In practice, these sources help buyers compare vehicles, but the safest choice for a given Dodge will depend on the exact model-year and the safety equipment included on the specific trim you’re considering.

Safety ratings and considerations by Dodge model and year

Because Dodge offers a mix of SUVs and muscle cars, safety ratings and available driver-assistance features can vary notably by model and year. Always check model-year pages on NHTSA.gov and IIHS.org for the exact vehicle you’re considering, and review the standard and optional safety technology listed by the manufacturer for that trim.

Durango (SUV)

In recent years, the Durango has incorporated a range of modern safety features and benefited from updated crash-test data. Ratings can differ by year and trim, so verify the specific configuration you’re evaluating. Look for availability of forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert in the trim you’re considering.

Challenger and Charger (muscle cars)

These performance-oriented models generally emphasize power and driving dynamics, with safety technology that has evolved across generations. Higher trims and later model years are more likely to offer advanced safety features as standard or optional equipment. For a precise assessment, review the exact model-year’s NHTSA/IIHS ratings and the standardized safety packages tied to that trim.

How to evaluate safety before buying a Dodge

To apply rating information to a purchase, use these practical steps:

1. Identify the exact model year and trim you want, then look up the corresponding NHTSA and IIHS ratings for that configuration.


2. Compare standard versus optional safety features listed by the manufacturer for that trim (e.g., automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert).


3. Check the vehicle’s recall history and current recall status on NHTSA.gov using the VIN or model-year information.


4. Read independent safety reviews or owner feedback to gauge real-world performance (braking reliability, visibility, and reliability of safety systems).


5. During a test drive, evaluate braking responsiveness, steering feel, and how well safety features operate in routine driving conditions (lane-keeping, collision warnings, etc.).

Conclusion: arm yourself with the model-year-specific ratings and feature lists, then verify through a test drive and the manufacturer’s safety documentation to determine whether a particular Dodge meets your safety expectations.

Bottom line and guidance for shoppers

Across the Dodge lineup, safety has improved over time with more advanced driver-assistance systems and stronger crash-avoidance features in newer models. However, the level of safety equipment can vary by trim and year, so prospective buyers should verify the exact configuration. Always consult NHTSA and IIHS ratings for the precise model-year you’re considering, review the dealer's safety feature specifications, and check for any active recalls before purchase.

Summary

In short, a Dodge can be a safe choice, but safety is not uniform across the brand. The safest approach is model-year-specific research: confirm official NHTSA and IIHS ratings for the exact vehicle, understand which safety features are standard or optional on that trim, check for recalls, and evaluate performance during a test drive. By treating safety as a variable by model and year, buyers can choose a Dodge that aligns with their safety priorities.

What is the most common problem with Dodge?

What Are the Most Common Problems with Dodge Vehicles?

1. The Infamous Hemi Tick.
2. Transmission Shifting Problems.
3. Premature Engine Failures.
4. Rust and Corrosion Concerns.
5. Suspension and Steering Wear.
6. Cracked Dashboards and Interior Wear.
7. Electrical System Glitches.
8. Brake and Rotor Wear.

What is the #1 safest car?

There is no single #1 safest car, as ratings vary by testing organization and model year. However, the Volvo XC90 is frequently highlighted for its safety features and strong performance in crash tests, and several 2025 models from brands like Subaru, Kia, Hyundai, and Tesla also achieve top ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It's important to check the latest safety ratings for specific model years from the IIHS and NHTSA to find the safest vehicle for your needs. 
Top contenders for safest cars

• Volvo XC90: Consistently praised for safety, the luxury SUV has earned top marks in crash tests and features advanced safety technology like Pilot Assist and City Safety. 
• Subaru Outback: A midsize crossover that combines off-road capability with strong safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. 
• Tesla Model 3: Earned high scores in crash tests and is noted for its autonomous emergency braking and other driver assistance systems. 
• Hyundai Ioniq 5: An electric vehicle that has received a top safety score of 10 out of 10 from U.S. News & World Report. 
• Subaru Forester: Frequently cited as a top choice for safety, with IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards for various model years. 
• Kia EV6: Another electric SUV that has received a top safety score of 10 out of 10 from U.S. News & World Report. 

How to find the safest car for you

• Check the latest ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA for specific model years, as features and ratings change annually. 
• Look for vehicles that have earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, which is their highest honor. 
• Consider a vehicle's accident rate per 100,0

Why do police like Dodge Chargers?

Police use Dodge Chargers due to their powerful engines, durable design, and customization options that are suited for law enforcement. The Charger Pursuit model is a factory-built police vehicle with features like performance-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and a spacious interior designed to accommodate police equipment and offer safety features for officers.
 
This video explains why police use Chargers for chases: 27sEpic CarsYouTube · Aug 26, 2025
Performance and durability

• Power and speed: The Charger's powerful engine, especially the V8 Hemi option, provides the speed and acceleration needed for high-speed pursuits and is a significant upgrade from older patrol vehicles. 
• Durability: The police version includes upgrades like a performance-tuned suspension, more powerful brakes, and load-leveling shocks to withstand the rigors of daily police work. It also has features like front and rear crumple zones for added safety. 

Officer-focused design

• Spacious interior: The roomy cabin is essential for officers who carry a lot of gear and often use laptops and other equipment. 
• Specialized features: The Charger Pursuit includes features like a side-mounted gear shifter to free up console space, special seats that accommodate utility belts, and an integrated touchscreen system. 
• Safety equipment: Some models include extra features like ballistic door panels, steel seatbacks, and a security system that activates a light if someone approaches the vehicle from behind. 

Market and price

• Successor to the Crown Victoria: After the Ford Crown Victoria was discontinued, the Charger became a popular replacement due to its performance and a price that made it a valuable option for police departments. 
• Marketing tool: The widespread use of the Charger by law enforcement agencies serves as a form of marketing for Dodge, suggesting the cars are fast, reliable, and durable. 

Are Dodge vehicles safe?

U.S. auto brands Ram, GMC, and Dodge took the top three spots in a new study that analyzed the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to find which car brands are safest on American roads.