Why is my 2017 Dodge Charger not turning on?

A practical short answer: most no-start issues on a 2017 Charger come down to power delivery or security systems—typically a dead battery or a failing starter, with immobilizer, fuses, or ignition components as common culprits.

Understanding why a Charger won’t start involves distinguishing between simple power problems and more complex mechanical or security faults. Modern Dodge Chargers rely on a healthy 12-volt electrical system, a functional starter, and a key recognition system. If any of these elements fail or are compromised, the engine may not crank or start at all. The following guide outlines common causes, diagnostic steps you can take, and when to seek professional help.

Common causes and quick checks

These are the most frequent, easily verifiable reasons a 2017 Charger won’t turn over. Start here before moving to deeper diagnostics.

• Dead or weak battery: dim dash lights, slow cranking, or a single click when attempting to start often signal insufficient power.


• Loose or corroded battery terminals and poor grounds: corroded clamps or loose connections can block power to the starter.


• Faulty starter motor or solenoid: a failed starter prevents the engine from cranking even if the battery is fine.


• Blown fuses or faulty relays: a blown starter fuse or a bad starter relay can stop the engine from turning over.


• Security/immobilizer issue: if the system doesn’t recognize the key, the engine won’t start; look for a security light on the dash or try a spare key.


• Transmission/parking interlock problem: if the car isn’t in Park (or Neutral, depending on the setup), the starter won’t engage.

Addressing these basics often resolves the majority of no-start situations. If any of these factors are present, tackle them first or have a service center inspect them.

Deeper diagnostics for persistent no-start

If simple checks don’t fix the issue, move to more thorough diagnostics that test power flow, security signals, and starter integrity. This may require tools or professional help.

• Test battery health with a multimeter: a healthy resting voltage is about 12.6 volts; cranking will draw significant current, which may temporarily drop voltage if the battery is weak.


• Inspect battery terminals and grounds: clean corrosion, ensure tight clamps, and verify solid ground straps to the chassis and engine.


• Evaluate the starter and its relay: listen for a clear click or for the starter to engage; no sound or grinding can indicate a bad starter or relay.


• Check critical fuses and relays: inspect the starting relay, anti-theft/immobilizer fuses, and engine-management fuses; replace any that are blown.


• Assess immobilizer and key recognition: if the security light remains on or the car doesn’t acknowledge the key, a spare key or dealer reprogramming may be required.


• Verify Park/Neutral switch operation and transmission wiring: a faulty interlock can prevent starting even when the gear selector is in Park.

If these deeper checks don’t reveal a fix, the problem may involve the vehicle’s control modules or more advanced electrical faults, which typically require a professional diagnostic scan and specialized equipment.

What to do next

Based on what you find, these are the practical next steps to take. Some are quick home fixes, others require roadside or dealer assistance.

• If the battery is weak or dead, attempt a jump start if safe, then replace or professionally test the battery to see if it holds a charge.


• If the engine cranks but won’t start, investigate fuel delivery and ignition components (fuel pump, ignition coils, spark plugs) or have a mechanic test those systems.


• If immobilizer or key recognition seems to be the issue, use a spare key or contact your dealer or a licensed locksmith to reprogram or sync the key fob with the vehicle.


• If warning lights indicate a security issue or multiple electrical faults, arrange for towing or roadside assistance and have the vehicle inspected at a Dodge service center.

Roadside assistance can verify battery health, perform a jump-start or tow, and direct you to the appropriate repair path without risking further damage.

Summary

For a 2017 Dodge Charger that will not turn on, the most common culprits are a dead or weak battery, poor electrical connections, a failing starter or relay, and immobilizer/key recognition problems. Start with the basics—battery, terminals, and fuses—then proceed to more detailed checks of the starter, grounds, and security system. If the problem remains unresolved after these steps, a professional diagnostic at a Dodge service center is recommended to identify and fix any deeper electrical or module-related faults.

Why does my Dodge Charger not turn on?

A Dodge Charger that won't start is often due to a dead battery or faulty starter, but could also be caused by ignition system issues, fuel delivery problems, or electrical faults like blown fuses or bad grounds. First, check the battery and terminals for corrosion, then listen for the sound of a starter or a clicking noise. If the engine cranks but doesn't start, check the fuel pump and ignition fuses and relays. 
This video explains the reasons why a Dodge Charger might not start and the first things you should check: 58sElectrical Car Repair LIVEYouTube · Dec 19, 2024
Common causes and solutions

• Battery issues: A weak or dead battery is the most common cause. 
  • Solution: Check for clean, tight terminals. If the battery is old or corroded, it may need to be replaced. 
• Starter motor failure: A bad starter can prevent the engine from cranking or cause grinding noises. 
  • Solution: If the lights and horn work but the engine won't turn over, the starter is a likely culprit. 
• Ignition system problems: This includes a faulty ignition switch, worn spark plugs, or bad ignition coils. 
  • Solution: A bad ignition switch can disrupt the signal to the starter. Check spark plugs for wear. 
• Fuel system issues: A clogged fuel filter, a bad fuel pump, or a blown fuel pump fuse can stop the engine from starting. 
  • Solution: Check the fuel pump relay and fuse. If the engine cranks but won't start, a bad fuel pump or a clogged filter is a strong possibility. 
• Electrical problems: Blown fuses or bad ground wires can cut power to the starter or ignition system. 
  • Solution: Check all relevant fuses, including engine starter, ignition, and fuel pump fuses, located in the fuse boxes under the hood and in the trunk. Inspect ground straps for corrosion or damage. 
• Push-button start issues: If your Charger has a push-button start, a low-battery key fob or a faulty brake pedal sensor can prevent it from starting. 
  • Solution: Try replacing the key fob battery or ensure the brake pedal is pressed firmly when starting. 

You can watch this video to learn how to start your Dodge Charger with a dead key fob: 50sJason GillettYouTube · Aug 24, 2020
How to diagnose

1. Listen to the sound: When you turn the key, do you hear a single click, a rapid clicking noise, or no sound at all?
   • Clicking or grinding: Points to a bad starter or a weak battery. 
   • No sound: Could be a bad starter or an electrical issue, like a fuse or ignition switch. 
   • Engine cranks but won't start: This is a fuel or spark issue. Check fuel pump and ignition system components. 
2. Check the battery: Look for any signs of corrosion on the terminals. Clean them and ensure the connections are tight. 
3. Check fuses and relays: Locate the fuse boxes (under the hood and in the trunk) and inspect the fuses for the starter, ignition, and fuel pump. It's best to test them, as a fuse can look fine but be blown internally. 
4. Perform a hard reset: For push-button start models, try a hard reset of the Uconnect system. This will not directly fix the engine, but can sometimes resolve electrical gremlins. 
5. Use an OBD-II scanner: Plug in an OBD-II scanner to read any trouble codes from the car's computer. This can give you more specific information about what's wrong, such as a faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensor. 

Why won't my 2017 charger start?

When a 2017 Dodge Charger won't start and accessories fail, check the battery connections and ground wires first. Even if the battery tests good, corroded or loose terminals can cause power loss. Inspect the Body Control Module (BCM) fuses and relays, as these control accessory power and door locks.

What does it mean when my car has power but won't start?

A car with power but no start is likely caused by a faulty starter motor, a bad ignition switch, or a problem with the car's electrical connections. Other common culprits include a blown fuse or relay, a loose or corroded battery cable, a problem with the fuel pump, or a malfunctioning shift safety switch. 
Electrical and connection issues

• Faulty starter motor: If you hear a single click when you turn the key but the engine doesn't crank, a bad starter is a likely cause. 
• Bad ignition switch: This switch sends power to the starter. If it's faulty, accessories might work, but the engine won't crank. 
• Loose or corroded battery terminals: Even with a charged battery, corrosion or loose connections can prevent the flow of power needed to start the engine. 
• Blown fuse or faulty relay: A blown fuse or bad relay in the starter circuit can prevent power from reaching the starter. 
• Key fob battery (for push-button start): A dead or weak key fob battery can prevent a modern car from recognizing the key and starting. 

This video explains how to check for common causes like a faulty starter or a bad key fob battery: 55sFixITYouTube · Jan 22, 2025
Mechanical and safety issues

• Faulty neutral safety switch: In an automatic car, this switch prevents starting unless the gear selector is in Park or Neutral. Wiggling the shifter while trying to start can sometimes temporarily fix this. 
• Fuel system problems: If the engine cranks but won't "catch," a problem with the fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter could be the issue. 
• Security system lockout: The car's anti-theft system can malfunction and prevent it from starting. 
• Bad ignition coil or spark plugs: These are necessary for the engine to ignite. If they are faulty, the engine will crank but not start. 

This video demonstrates how to check the neutral safety switch and other potential issues: 59sHonest Mechanic ColoradoYouTube · Jan 24, 2024
Troubleshooting steps

• Check battery connections: Wiggle the battery terminals to ensure they are tight and clean off any white, powdery corrosion. 
• Try a jump-start: A jump-start can help determine if the battery has enough power to crank the engine, even if it shows a good voltage reading. 
• Check fuses and relays: Locate the fuse box and visually inspect the fuses for the starter and ignition. You can also swap a suspect relay with a known-good one, like the horn relay, to test it. 
• Check the gear selector: For automatic transmissions, try shifting to Neutral or jiggling the gear shifter while in Park to see if the safety switch is the culprit. 
• Replace the key fob battery: If you have a push-button start, try replacing the battery in your key fob. 

Why is my Dodge car not starting?

Check battery voltage and terminals for corrosion or loose connections. Test the starter motor by tapping it gently while attempting to start. If the battery is good, inspect the starter relay and ignition switch. Regularly clean battery terminals and ensure the alternator charges properly to prevent this issue.