What year of Challenger to stay away from?

The Challenger disaster was a tragic event that occurred in 1986 when the Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart shortly after launch, resulting in the deaths of all seven crew members on board. While the Challenger disaster was a devastating moment in history, there is one specific year related to the event that should be avoided.

The Challenger Disaster of 1986

On January 28, 1986, the Space Shuttle Challenger launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Seventy-three seconds into the flight, the Challenger broke apart, leading to the deaths of the seven astronauts on board, including Christa McAuliffe, a teacher who was selected to be the first civilian to go into space.

The disaster was caused by the failure of an O-ring seal in one of the solid rocket boosters, which allowed hot gases to escape and damage the external fuel tank, leading to the breakup of the shuttle. The tragedy was a devastating blow to the space program and the nation, and it led to a lengthy investigation and changes to NASA's safety protocols.

The Year to Avoid: 1986

The year 1986 is the one to avoid when it comes to the Challenger disaster. This was the year the tragic event occurred, and it is a year that is forever etched in the minds of those who witnessed it. The Challenger disaster was a profound and traumatic event, and the year 1986 is inextricably linked to it.

While the Challenger disaster was a tragic event, it is important to remember the lessons learned and the changes that were made to improve the safety of the space program. The disaster led to a renewed focus on safety and a commitment to ensuring that such a tragedy would never happen again.

What years of Challenger to avoid?

You should be cautious with 2009-2013 Dodge Challengers due to recurring issues like alternator failure, TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) problems, and electrical and transmission issues. Older, second-generation models (1978-1983) are also best avoided due to their reliance on a different, less robust platform. 
Years to approach with caution

• 2009–2013: This period is frequently cited as problematic.
  • 2012: Has the most complaints, with issues including alternator failure, 8-speed transmission problems, and warped brake rotors.
  • 2011-2013: Faced frequent alternator failures and TIPM issues, which can cause stalling and other electrical problems.
  • 2008-2014: Experience problems with the Wireless Ignition Node (WINN) module.
• 2014–2016: These years are noted for recalls concerning passenger frontal airbag inflators, cruise control that may not cancel, and alternator failures. 

Other considerations

• Second-generation (1978–1983): These models are not the modern muscle cars enthusiasts love and are often considered less reliable due to their different design. 
• 2010–2015: Both the 2010 and 2015 models are mentioned as having issues with the airbag inflators, and 2015 models had recalls for passenger frontal airbags. 
• 2015-2016: These years are flagged for potential electrical issues and other design flaws, particularly after the redesign in 2015. 

What is the most reliable year of the Challenger?

The most reliable Dodge Challenger years are generally considered to be the later models from 2018-2023, with 2019-2020 being particularly strong choices due to fewer complaints and improved build quality. These years benefit from a post-2015 facelift and a reputation for higher reliability compared to earlier models. 
Most reliable years

• 2018–2023: This range is consistently recommended for reliability, with 2019 and 2020 often cited as standouts. 
• 2019–2020: Many sources point to these years as having excellent reliability, fewer complaints, and solid build quality. 
• 2017: This model year is also considered one of the best, especially regarding the powertrain and chassis, though it had one recall for certain 5.7L V8 models with the eight-speed automatic transmission. 

Years to approach with caution

• 2011–2014: These models are more prone to issues like alternator failure, especially around 50,000 miles. 
• 2015: Some issues were reported with transmission shifting and electrical gremlins in the 2015 model year. 
• 2012: This year is frequently mentioned as one of the worst due to frequent alternator failures. 

Tips for buying a used Challenger

• Check for recalls: Before purchasing, verify that all outstanding recalls have been addressed by a dealer. 
• Consider a pre-2015 model: While later models are more reliable, older models like the 2009 RT have also been noted as reliable by owners. 
• Review the vehicle history: A used Challenger can be a good value if you find one with a well-documented history and low mileage. 

What is the best used Dodge Challenger to buy?

The 2018-2025 Dodge Challengers have racked up far fewer complaints than their predecessors. If you're looking for the most reliable muscle car, start with these model years. According to Kelley Blue Book, a 2019 Challenger with mileage between 72,000 and 84,000 has a low risk of needing any major repairs!

What is the bad year for the 5.7 Hemi Challenger?

The worst years
While the 5.7L HEMI is a powerful and reliable motor, it isn't free from bugs. A few model years, in particular, have proven more problematic than others. Model years 2011 and 2012 stand out when it comes to bad years for the 5.7L HEMI, with 2012 being an especially lousy period for Ram pickups.