Is there a recall on Dodge Charger timing chains?
No active nationwide recall specifically targeting timing chains on Dodge Charger models is in effect at the moment. Recall status can change, so owners should verify using official sources for their exact VIN and model year.
Current recall status and how to verify
To determine whether your Dodge Charger is affected, use VIN-based recall checks through official databases and dealer channels. Below is how to verify your vehicle’s status with official sources.
To confirm recall status for your exact vehicle, use these steps to check your VIN:
- Find your vehicle's 17-character VIN on the driver's side dashboard or door jamb; you can also locate it on your registration or insurance documents.
- Visit the NHTSA recall search at NHTSA Recalls and enter your VIN or search by make/model/year.
- If a recall is listed for your VIN, contact a Dodge/Chrysler dealer to schedule free service.
- If no recall appears for your VIN, you can still monitor the page periodically or sign up for recall alerts for your vehicle’s year and model.
Concluding: VIN-based checks are the most reliable way to confirm recall eligibility; status can change with new campaigns.
Past recalls and related timing-chain concerns
While there is no current recall, the history includes campaigns related to timing-chain components in FCA engines used in Charger and related models. These campaigns were VIN-specific and focused on correcting potential timing-chain tensioner or guide wear that could affect engine performance or cause stalling. They were handled at no cost to owners.
What this means for Charger owners
Owners of older Chargers should be aware that some engines in the FCA family did see timing-chain-related recalls in the past. Because campaigns are VIN-specific, you may be affected even if your neighbor’s Charger isn’t. Always check your VIN.
- Investigations and recalls in the 2010s-2020s targeted timing-chain components on some FCA vehicles, including Charger/Challenger variants, with repairs at no charge.
- Repairs were typically limited to the affected VIN ranges and model years identified in the recall documentation.
- Dealers perform the recall service at no cost to the owner if your VIN falls within the recall scope.
Concluding: Past campaigns exist but do not imply current recalls; VIN-based checks are essential to verify.
Staying informed and next steps
To stay updated on recall information for your Dodge Charger, consider these ongoing steps:
- Set up vehicle recall alerts on the NHTSA site or via dealer communications for your exact VIN.
- During routine maintenance, ask the dealer to verify there are no new recalls affecting your VIN.
- If you plan to sell or purchase a Charger, request the vehicle’s recall history report (VIN-based) to confirm past campaigns.
Concluding: Staying informed reduces risk and ensures any recall is addressed promptly at no cost.
What to do if you notice timing-chain-related symptoms
If you hear abnormal engine noises, experience misfires, or see warning lights, have the vehicle inspected promptly. Timing-chain issues can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed quickly.
Common symptoms
The following signals may indicate timing-chain-related problems, though many could stem from unrelated issues. If you notice any of these, contact your dealer for a diagnostic check.
- Loud rattling or clattering noises from the engine, especially on startup or at idle
- Engine hesitation, misfires, or a drop in power
- Check Engine Light or other diagnostic trouble codes related to timing or ignition
- Engine stalls or fails to start due to timing misalignment
Concluding: If symptoms occur, stop driving safely if possible and seek immediate service to prevent potential engine damage.
Summary
Bottom line: There is no active recall specifically for Dodge Charger timing chains at this moment in the U.S., but recall status can change. Owners should verify their VIN with official sources such as the NHTSA recall database and their local dealer to confirm whether any timing-chain-related campaigns apply to their exact vehicle.
