Photo: Erik Drost / CC BY 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Dodge Challenger
Coupe · Gas · 21 versions · owner report
Ranked #1 of 6 used sports cars on owner data, price and power
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (346 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2023
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is generally positive, with owners expressing strong affection for the vehicle's character, comfort, and performance.
6 problems reported (2 recurrent, 3 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentDated/interior quality
Interior design and materials feel cheap and outdated compared to segment competitors.
- RecurrentSize/weight
Noted as a con for maneuverability, parking, and handling feel.
- IsolatedElectrical issues
General mentions of electrical gremlins being a fair share of problems.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedWater pump failure
Mentioned as an issue on a 2018 Scat Pack, covered under warranty.
- IsolatedTheft target
Challengers are specifically named as targets for organized theft rings using electronic bypass devices.
- Poor fuel economy
Very frequent mention as a significant ownership cost, especially with V8 models.
The version owners recommend
Scat Pack (392 Hemi): This trim is frequently recommended as the ideal balance of performance, value, and features. Owners state the extra power, upgraded suspension, and brakes over the R/T (5.7L Hemi) are essential, and it is commonly better equipped with features like the larger infotainment screen. The widebody package is also recommended for its enhanced stance and handling. For a daily driver, the R/T is mentioned as a more practical V8 option, while SRT and Hellcat models are suggested for weekend or performance-focused use.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Mazda 3 and Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is generally positive, with owners expressing strong affection for the vehicle's character, comfort, and performance. The Challenger is consistently praised as a large, comfortable, and fun-to-drive cruiser with a powerful, rumbling V8 engine, offering a distinct experience compared to its main competitors. It is widely regarded as a practical daily driver for a performance coupe, with a usable back seat and trunk. However, there is a clear consensus on several drawbacks: the car's substantial size and weight make it feel less nimble than rivals, fuel economy is poor, and the interior design and materials are frequently criticized as dated and cheap-feeling compared to modern competitors. Ownership satisfaction is heavily dependent on aligning expectations with the car's intended role as a powerful grand tourer rather than a sharp-handling sports car.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a larger, more comfortable, and more practical alternative to the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. The Mustang is described as feeling "small and weak" in comparison, while the Camaro is criticized for poor visibility. The Challenger is acknowledged as the heaviest of the three but is favored for its classic styling, cabin space, and relaxed, powerful cruising demeanor. It is not considered a handling-focused car; comparisons to vehicles like the Mazda MX-5 Miata highlight the Challenger's focus on straight-line power and comfort over agility. The V6-powered Challenger GT AWD is noted as a practical option for inclement weather, though with a fuel economy penalty.
Recommended configurations
V8 engine (5.7L or 6.4L Hemi) is strongly preferred for the authentic muscle car experience. Automatic transmission (ZF 8-speed) is commonly mentioned. For daily driving in areas with snow, the GT AWD model with the V6 is suggested as a capable alternative, despite its lower fuel economy compared to the RWD GT. An extended warranty is recommended by some owners, particularly for higher-mileage or out-of-warranty examples. When buying used, a pre-purchase inspection is advised to check for signs of abuse (e.g., burnout residue, high recorded top speed) and maintenance history.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers seeking a comfortable, powerful, and stylish grand touring coupe with classic American muscle character. Ideal as a daily driver for those who prioritize straight-line performance, cabin space, and a relaxed ride over sporty handling. NOT recommended for driving enthusiasts who prioritize nimble handling, tight cornering, or high fuel efficiency. NOT recommended for use in regions with expensive fuel or tight, congested urban environments due to its size and poor fuel economy. A thorough test drive is essential to evaluate the vehicle's size, acceleration, and transmission behavior. For used models, carefully review ownership history and vehicle condition, and negotiate aggressively given high production volumes.
Remarks
The platform's longevity (in production since 2008 for the Charger/Challenger) is seen as a double-edged sword: it has allowed Dodge to refine and resolve early issues, but also results in an interior and technology that feel generations old compared to all-new competitors. Owner discussions frequently distinguish between the car's intended purpose: a powerful, comfortable cruiser: and misplaced expectations for sports car dynamics. The high production volume and recent discontinuation are likely to support strong used market availability and negotiation leverage for buyers. Analysis based on a limited set of owner discussions; data on long-term reliability (beyond 75,000 miles) and specific model year issues is insufficient.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2023. Years to avoid: 2023Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Dodge Challenger years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 301 | 2 | visibility/wiper |
| 2022 | 45 | 2 | seat belts |
| 2021 | 58 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 20 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 160 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 197 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 94 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 154 | 2 | power train |
| 2015 | 126 | 6 | power train |
| 2014 | 149 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2013 | 179 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2012 | 253 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2011 | 193 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2010 | 299 | 7 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices64 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · parking brakecampaign 24V112000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger vehicles. The parking brake may be improperly adjusted, which can result in a vehicle roll away. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
2023 · seats:critical fastenerscampaign 24V573000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Dodge Challenger vehicles. The left rear seat back may not lock in the upright position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 207, "Seating Systems."
2022 · tires:pressure monitoring and regulating systemscampaign 22V504000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor battery may fail prematurely and cause the sensor to become inoperative. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
2022 · tires:pressure monitoring and regulating systemscampaign 22V808000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor battery may fail prematurely and cause the sensor to become inoperative. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
2021 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 21V664000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Dodge Challenger vehicles. The affected vehicles do not illuminate their safety system status indicators sufficiently in both daylight and nighttime driving conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."
2021 · visibility:windshieldcampaign 21V516000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."
2020 · visibility:windshieldcampaign 21V516000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 20V191000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays. A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
2019 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 19V203000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Dodge Challenger and Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The instrument cluster may not properly illuminate driver warnings. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Control and Displays."
2019 · service brakescampaign 19V758000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Dodge Challenger and Charger vehicles. An incompatible front wheel and brake package was installed and may allow the front tire to contact the steering knuckle, causing tire damage.
2018 · power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)campaign 18E053000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain Mopar Stage 1 Kit Performance Packages Powertrain Control Modules (PCM) Part Numbers P5160023, P5160025, and Demon Crate PCM Part Number 68412287AA. The PCMs are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
2018 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 18V280000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Dodge Charger, Durango and Challenger, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, Chrysler 300, and RAM 1500 vehicles. An incorrect transmission park lock rod may have been installed in the transmission.
2018 · electrical system:wiringcampaign 18V332000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
2018 · electrical system:wiring:front underhoodcampaign 18V524000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
2017 · electrical system:wiringcampaign 18V332000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
49 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
SXT 3.6 Pentastar V6
3.6L 6-cylinder · 305 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2018–2023