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Where is the battery in a Dodge Challenger?

The battery is typically located in the engine bay on the driver’s side of a Dodge Challenger. Some specialty or older configurations may relocate it to the trunk; always verify with your owner's manual for your exact model.

Dodge Challengers span multiple generations and trims, from the late-2000s LX chassis to modern performance variants. Battery placement can vary by year, engine option, and market, so this guide outlines the standard location and the common exceptions, along with quick steps to locate or verify the battery in your specific car.

Typical location in most Challengers

Below are the steps and clues to find the 12‑volt battery in the engine bay for the majority of Challengers.

Open the hood and look on the driver’s side of the engine bay, near the front-left corner. The battery is usually housed in a rectangular black case with a red protective cap over the positive terminal.

It is typically secured by a metal bracket or clamp that you will need to loosen to remove or inspect the battery.

The positive terminal is marked with a red cover or "+" symbol, and the negative terminal is grounded to the chassis or engine block with a black cable.

Wiring harnesses and jump-start terminals are often routed near the battery area, which helps identify the battery’s location even if the cover is removed.

For most Challenger models, you can expect to find the 12V battery in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, making routine checks and jump-starts straightforward.

Trunk-mounted battery option

In a minority of Challengers—primarily certain high-performance or specialty editions—the battery may be relocated to the trunk to free up space in the engine bay or for weight distribution considerations. If you don’t find the battery under the hood, this is the alternate area to check.

Inspect the trunk on the passenger side, often behind a removable panel or beneath a floor mat in the cargo area. Look for a rectangular battery box or a 12V battery with associated wiring running forward to the engine bay.

Some vehicles route the main 12V battery cable from the trunk toward the engine, so you may see a thick cable running along the passenger side or under the trunk floor toward the firewall.

If your car uses a trunk-mounted battery, you’ll typically see the battery location noted in the owner’s manual under electrical or battery sections.

Trunk-mounted configurations are less common on most Challengers, but they do appear on certain trims or model years. If you suspect this is the case for your car, consult the manual or a dealer to confirm the exact location.

How to verify your specific model

To be certain about your Challenger’s battery location, follow these quick verification steps.

Check the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s online guide for your exact year and trim; search for “12V battery location” in the electrical section.

Inspect the engine bay first (driver’s side) and then the trunk area if you don’t see a battery under the hood.

When in doubt, contact a Dodge service center or a dealership with your VIN for a precise answer tailored to your vehicle.

In most cases, you’ll find the battery under the hood on the driver’s side, with trunk relocation being a rare exception that you’ll confirm via the manual or a dealership.

Summary

The Dodge Challenger’s primary 12V battery is usually located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, making routine maintenance and jump-starts straightforward. Some special editions may place the battery in the trunk, so always verify with your owner’s manual or a dealer for your exact model and year. Clear labeling on the terminals and a visible battery box are good indicators as you locate or service it.

Why won't my Dodge Challenger start?

A Dodge Challenger that won't start is most commonly caused by a dead battery or a dead key fob battery. Other potential issues include a faulty starter, blown fuses, a problem with the ignition switch or relay, a clogged fuel filter, or a failing alternator. Start with simple checks like verifying your fob and brake pedal, and then move to electrical components like fuses and relays if the problem persists.

Simple checks
This video demonstrates how to use the key fob to start the engine if the key fob battery is low: 54sI’m NOT from this planet (I.T.T.)YouTube · Sep 18, 2023

Key fob battery: If you have push-button start, a weak key fob battery can prevent the car from starting. Try holding the fob directly against the start button while pressing it (make sure your foot is on the brake). If that works, replace the fob battery.
Brake pedal switch: The car requires the brake pedal to be pressed to start. If the brake lights aren't working, a faulty brake light switch could be the issue.
Battery connections: Check the battery terminals for corrosion. Clean them and ensure the connections are tight.

Electrical and fuel system issues
This video explains how to check the fuses and relays in the fuse box to diagnose starting problems: 59sElectrical Car Repair LIVEYouTube · Jan 8, 2025

Fuses and relays: A blown fuse or faulty relay is a common cause of a no-start.
- Check the main engine starter fuse, often fuse #4 in the under-hood fuse box.
- Inspect the ignition relay (relay 29 or 14) in the trunk fuse box and the starter relay (relay 27) under the hood.
Alternator: If the car starts with a jump but the problem returns, the alternator may not be charging the battery. Have it tested.
Starter: A clicking sound but no crank, or a complete lack of any sound, can point to a bad starter.
Fuel system: A clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump could prevent the engine from starting, even if it cranks.
Immobilizer system: A security system or immobilizer issue can prevent the car from starting.

What to do next

Start with the simple checks like the key fob and brake pedal.
If the simple checks don't work, move on to checking the fuses and relays.
If you're uncomfortable working with electrical systems, it's best to have the vehicle towed to a mechanic for diagnosis.

Where is the battery located in my car?

But not all of them. Some may be in the trunk. Or under one of the seats. We've even seen batteries in the wheel well. However if you can't find the battery and need to jump start your vehicle.

Why is the battery in the trunk of a Dodge Challenger?

Some of the main advantages for having the car battery in the trunk are weight distribution, also limted exposed to heat from the engine and far always from engine vibrations. On many modern vehicles after replacing the battery you may need to program the battery.

Where is the Dodge Charger battery located?

Here. I like to use a flaad screwdriver to gently pry this open. And then wiggle this up and. Off. On the back.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.