Is it expensive to own a Dodge Charger?
Not always, but it can be costly, especially with the high-performance variants. Base models are more affordable to buy and operate, but fuel, maintenance, insurance and depreciation add up over time.
The Dodge Charger remains a storied symbol of American performance, even as production ended after the 2023 model year. With limited new stock and a robust used market, ownership costs vary widely by trim and driving habits. This article breaks down upfront costs, ongoing expenses, and market context to help prospective buyers estimate the true cost of ownership.
Upfront costs and depreciation
What you pay to get behind the wheel and how quickly the car loses value are the primary upfront considerations for a Charger. Here's a snapshot of typical price ranges by trim and how depreciation tends to unfold in today's market.
- Charger SXT (base 3.6L V6): roughly $32,000–$36,000 at launch; strong value for a full-size sedan with modern features.
- Charger GT (V6 with optional AWD): roughly $36,000–$40,000; similar depreciation pattern as base model.
- Charger R/T (5.7L Hemi V8): roughly $45,000–$55,000; premium performance adds cost but can hold value better than base trims.
- Charger Scat Pack (392 V8): roughly $55,000–$65,000; performance-focused, tends to command solid resale in some markets.
- Charger SRT Hellcat/Redeye (supercharged V8): roughly $70,000–$90,000+; top-tier variants have steep upfront costs and faster depreciation depending on mileage and maintenance records.
Because Dodge ended Charger production after 2023, new-car availability is limited, and most buyers are navigating the used market. Prices reflect mileage, condition, options, and how recently the car was serviced, making the upfront cost highly variable.
Ongoing costs of ownership
Beyond the sticker price, ongoing costs are heavily influenced by engine choice, driving style, and maintenance needs. The following breakdown gives a general sense of what to budget for.
- Fuel costs: V6 Chargers typically deliver better efficiency; expect roughly 20–25 mpg combined under real-world driving, while V8s, especially the Hellcat family, often fall into the low 20s or teens combined when driven aggressively.
- Insurance: Performance variants cost more to insure. Annual premiums for a typical driver can vary widely, commonly ranging from several hundred to a few thousand dollars more than a base sedan, depending on location, age, and driving history.
- Maintenance and repairs: Routine maintenance is similar to other large sedans, but high-performance variants may require pricier parts and service, particularly for brakes, tires, and cooling systems. Warranty coverage (3 years/36,000 miles basic; 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain) helps in early years but tapers off with age.
- Tires and brakes: Charger rides on large wheels; performance tires wear faster and can be expensive to replace. A full tire set replacement can run into the high hundreds to low thousands depending on size and brand.
- Total cost of ownership: Depreciation continues across ownership; the end of production means fewer new units on the market, which can influence resale patterns in niche markets, especially for rare trims.
In short, base models tend to be cheaper to own over time, while Hellcat and other high-performance variants dramatically increase fuel, maintenance and insurance costs, potentially overshadowing the lower upfront price.
Market context and ownership considerations
The Charger’s production ended with the 2023 model year, leaving a niche but active used-market. Prospective buyers should weigh supply constraints, service availability, and part sourcing when comparing against newer muscle sedans or sport coupes.
What to watch when shopping used
- Check maintenance receipts and evidence of recent safety recalls addressed by a dealer or trusted shop. - Inspect tires for wear, especially on rear wheels common with performance variants. - Review the car’s history for any high-load usage (track days, sustained high-speed runs) that could influence longevity of the drive train and cooling systems. - Confirm warranty transferability if any, and plan for potential out-of-pocket costs as the vehicle ages.
Dealers and independent shops remain equipped to service Dodges, but availability of Dodge-specific parts can vary by region, so factor that into long-term ownership decisions.
Summary
Is it expensive to own a Dodge Charger? It can be, particularly if you choose a high-performance variant. Base models offer more affordable daily ownership, but fuel costs, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation add up. The end of production in 2023 means most Chargers on the road are pre-owned, so price and reliability hinge on mileage, care, and service history. For enthusiasts who prioritize performance, the Charger still delivers a distinctive driving experience, but budgets should reflect the higher ongoing costs of the top trims.
