Home Automotive AdviceCar Problems and Reliability Are Dodge Challengers Reliable: Which Model Year Is Best?

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable: Which Model Year Is Best?

by Jordan Harris
Dodge Charger vs Challenger

People love muscle cars because of their appearance and how they astonish road users. Dodge launched the Challenger in 1969, becoming the most famous muscle car of the Dodge brand. From 1969 till now, Dodge Challenger is still doing well. You might be asking are Dodge Challengers reliable?

Regarding reliability, Dodge Challenger is not at the top of the list but has an excellent reliability rating among other vehicles in its class. The Dodge Challenger has a reliability score of 85/100, based on numerous reliability surveys, and you can use your Dodge for a very long time. 

The average repair cost is not as high compared to other cars, and you won’t need to keep replacing important parts now and then. When you are looking for a performance car, Dodge Challenger should be one of the options you need to consider.

Dodge Challenger Reliability

The Dodge Challenger is not the most reliable if you want to compare it with other mid-size vehicles; however, it is one of the most reliable muscle cars. Dodge Challenger is not flawless, but you won’t experience too many issues while using it, and it is one of the best performance cars you can purchase. Below are the reliability of scores of Dodge Challengers in recent years;

  • 2022: 88/100
  • 2021: 88/100
  • 2020: 87/100
  • 2019: 83/100
  • 2018: 84/100
  • 2017: 78/100
  • 2016: 86/100
  • 2015: 83/100
  • 2014: 76/100
  • 2013: 78/100
  • 2012: 73/100
  • 2010: 81/100
  • 2009: 83/100

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable

Dodge Challenger Best Year

After releasing its first car in 1969/1970s, Dodge Challengers went off for some time and returned in 2008. Since 2008, the brand has been producing top-notch muscle cars. The best model years of Dodge Challenger offer incredible features, are very reliable, and have little or no issues. Below are the best years;

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable, Best Years: #1. 2018 Dodge Challenger

The 2018 model is considered the best model year among many car enthusiasts and review websites. It comes with a top-notch V8 engine that produces 840 horsepower comfortably, the engine car cruise from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. In addition, this V8 engine has 770 pounds of torque.

2018 Dodge Challenger comfortably outperforms other muscle cars like the Ford Mustang GT350 in terms of power and force. Another feature that makes this model year outstanding is that users can choose between 13 different trim levels; you can select according to your budget and taste in muscle cars.

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable, Best Years: #2. 2019 Dodge Challenger

The 2019 Dodge Challenger is outstanding for its beautiful interior, a V8 engine, and you can use it all year round because it comes with AWD. This model is available in 6 trim levels, and each has different features such as different engines and transmission.

The 2019 model comes with a V6 or a V8. You can choose a rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive option and select either 6 or 8-speed transmissions. The 2019 Dodge Challenger offers the necessary power for your car to function perfectly, and it would have been at the top of the list if it had the same trim levels as the 2018 model year.

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable, Best Years: #3. 2020 Dodge Challenger

The 2020 Dodge Challenger came with a few upgrades and is available in five trim levels. It has several similarities with the 2019 model year, especially its unique V8 supercharged engine, but you can also get the V6 or normal V8 ones. It has two doors, just like other Dodge Challengers, and it comes with different types of transmissions.

The 2020 Dodge Challenger is unique because of its stitched dashboard and upper door panels.

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable, Best Years: #4. 2008 Dodge Challenger

The 2008 Dodge Challenger is available in one trim level only, but it offers superior power and style, and it’s the model that revived Dodge Challenger. The brand only produced a limited number of this model year, and it is only available in a performance version with a Hemi V8 engine that produces 425 horsepower.

The 2008 Dodge Challenger can accommodate five passengers and has a stylish interior. It has an independent suspension and a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable, Best Years: #5. 2021 Dodge Challenger

The 2021 Dodge Challenger is one of the fastest and most powerful muscle cars, though behind the 2018 model year. It has a powerful supercharged engine, a stylish interior, and several customizations. The 2021 model shares the same transmission, two-door design, and engine as the 2019 model year.

However, it has a larger body. If you are looking for a muscle car that’s powerful and fast, the 2021 Dodge Challenger is one of the very best.

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable, Best Years: #6. 2017 Dodge Challenger

The 2017 Dodge Challenger is a 305-hp muscle car that can cruise from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. It has a spacious interior with great features such as a feature-packed infotainment system and a performance data logger showing your driving performance. This model year is available in 10 trims, making it available at different prices and performance levels.

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable, Best Years: #7. 2016 Dodge Challenger

The 2016 Dodge Challenger is similar to the 2017 but only available in six trim levels. Many people see the 2017 version as an upgrade to the 2016 version because of the similarity between the two.

Most Reliable Muscle Cars

Muscle cars are famous for their stunning looks, excellent performance, and reliability. Do you want to shop for a new muscle car? Below are some of the reliable ones you can invest in.

Are Dodge Challengers Reliable

1. Ford Mustang

The fifth and current generation of Ford Mustang offers muscle, speed, performance, and safety and is a beautiful car. It has a 2.3-liter Ecoboost engine that produces up to 310 horsepower and 350 ft-lb torque, and an optional 5.0-liter V8 workhorse engine increase the HP and torque level to 460 and 420, respectively.

2. Chevrolet Camaro

Chevrolet introduced Camaro in 1966, the same year as the Mustang, and they have always been competing since then. People at some point questioned what “Camaro” meant, and they found out that it meant: a small vicious animal that ate Mustangs. The Chevrolet Camaro is fast, powerful, and safe; it comes with a 6.2-liter V8 powerplant engine that produces up to 650 horsepower.

3. Cadillac CTS

The Cadillac CTS is a muscular and luxurious vehicle with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 268 horsepower and 295 ft-lb torque. You can use this muscle beauty to bend in corners without worrying; it combines power, style, balance, and beauty. The best model is the CTS-V, which has a 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces 640 horsepower and 630 ft-lb torque.

The CTS-V will cruise to 60 mph from zero in 3.6 seconds and has Brembo brakes that can comfortably halt your car.

4. Kia Stinger

The Kia Stinger is the first Asian muscle car on the list; the base model has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 255 horsepower and 260 ft-lb torque. One of the best trims is the Stinger GT. It comes with a twin-turbo V6 mill that revs 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft torque. It will cruise to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, has excellent fuel economy, and is reliable.

5. Chevrolet SS

Chevy stopped producing the SS in 2017. It comes with a 6.2-liter LS3 engine with 408 horsepower and 420 torque. The Chevrolet SS of 2017 got an excellent reliability score, and it’s a muscle car you can consider investing in.

6. Dodge Challenger

The first Dodge Challenger was a total muscle available in nine power-engine combinations. The highest model came with a Hemi V8 engine that revs 425 horsepower. The Dodge Challenger of the second generation lasted till 1984, and the third generation came in 2008.

The 2019 Dodge Challenger comes with a V8 Hemi engine that produces up to 707 horsepower. When looking for a reliable muscle car, Dodge Challenger should top your list.

Dodge car

7. Chevrolet Corvette Zo6

Some Chevy users describe the Corvette as a sports car instead of a muscle car, maybe they are correct, but the Zo6 looks and performs muscle. It has a 6.2 liter V8 power engine that revs an outstanding 650 horsepower and torque. Zo6 is reliable, zippy, and has an excellent lineup of wheels. It has great steering that can navigate corners comfortably; this and other features are why the Chevrolet Corvette will always be on the list of the most reliable muscle cars.

Dodge Challengers Through The Years

Dodge Challenger dates to 1970, but how has one of the best muscle cars evolved through the years?

1969-1974 Dodge Challengers

The Dodge Challenger of 1969-74 was one of the best muscle cars of that generation. It is available in different trim levels and can choose from different engine options. Its engines can produce between 105 to 375 horsepower.

2007-2010 Dodge Challengers

The Dodge produced within these years comes with a V8 or V6 engine. They have a long hood, short cabin, and short rear deck. The 2007-10 models have an SRT8 trim level and other powerful versions.

2010-2015 Dodge Challengers

The Dodge Challengers of these years come with new engines, special packs, and even new colors. The brand renamed the basic SE trim to SXT, and it came with a 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 engine, dual rear exhausts, brake assist, alert braking, and so on.

2015-Present Dodge Challenger

The Dodge Challenger of this era comes with big upgrades to the transmission. They replaced the old 5-speed automatic transmission with an 8-speed ZF gearbox. The 6.4-liter V8 engine produces 485 horsepower and is available on the R/T trim.

You can choose from the 6-speed transmission or 8-speed automatic transmission. The base trim comes with a 3.6-liter Pentastar engine that produces 305 horsepower. It has a nice interior and several tech features.

Dodge Challenger Recalls

The NHTSA, or the brand itself, has repeatedly recalled Dodge Challenger for a specific safety problem. A recall may be frustrating, but a recalled car is better than an ignored one that may get you into some road hazard. Below are some Dodge Challenger recalls;

1. TPMS System

Some 2022 Dodge Challengers have been recalled because of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The sensor battery may go off suddenly and make the sensor inactive. The sensor battery failure violates the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138. An inactive TPMS will not show any sign of low tire pressure, thereby increasing the possibility of accidents.

If you need more insight, check out our guide on how to fix tire pressure.

2. Windshield

Chrysler recalled some 2020-2021 Dodge Challengers because the windshield was not correctly attached to the vehicle during manufacturing. A windshield that detaches from the car during an accident will cause several injuries; this violates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 212, “Windshield Mounting.”

3. Tires

Some 2019 Dodge Challengers have been recalled because of incompatible front wheel and brake packages which may cause contact between the front tire and the steering knuckle. A damaged tire loses air pressure quickly and may increase the likelihood of accidents.

4. Airbags

Some 2010-2015 Dodge Challengers have been recalled because the driver’s frontal airbag’s deployment leads to too much internal pressure that may cause an inflator explosion.

5. Automatic Transmission

Chrysler recalls some 2018 Dodge Challengers for a wrong transmission park lock rod installed to the transmission. A wrong park lock rod will prevent the transmission from shifting to “PARK”, causing unexpected vehicle movement that may lead to a crash.

6. Alternator/Regulator

Certain 2014 Dodge Challengers with a 3.6L engine and a 160 amp alternator have been recalled because of a possible alternator failure. A failed alternator causes sudden stalling that may increase accident risk.

Dodge Challenger Problems

Having a muscle car such as the Dodge Challenger will give you extra speed on the road; however, Dodge Challenger is not perfect or without issues. What are the common problems with Dodge Challengers?

1. Power Steering Assembly Leaks

Some Dodge Challenger model years had bad steering assemblies that would detach from other components and leak power steering fluid. Because of these issues, some 2010 Dodge Challengers were recalled. For some, the fluid would leak, flow into the engine chamber, and sometimes cause fire outbreaks.

2. Unpredicted Airbag Deployment

2008 to 2013 Dodge Challenger is the main culprit of this problem. Some users reported that the airbag exploded, and as a result, there was a recall concerning this. What caused the deployment issue was a faulty propeller used to build the airbag.

3. Brake Issues

Many 2019 Dodge Challengers had brake issues; many users complained about excessive vibration while activating the brakes. Other users complained about poorly installed rear brake pads that may break the rotors. Some had to replace it.

4. Malfunctioning Air Conditioner

The 2014 Dodge Challenger had an AC system issue. Users complained about leaks around the compressor and cabin, causing the AC to blow hot air or not function. The only solution was to install a new AC, compressor, or evaporator. Some of those Dodge Challengers also had heater issues; the system would function for some time and shut down till who knows when.

5. Bad Transmission Shifting

Many Dodge Challengers had transmission issues. Some users can’t describe any cause, while others said the problem started around 34,800 miles with an annoying metallic noise when shifting transmission. The brand created a solution for this by offering a transmission control module software update.

6. Check Engine Light

If you are using the 2009-2010 Dodge Challenger, you would have noticed a crankshaft position sensor signal loss several times. The signal loss will mostly trigger the check engine light error code P0339; sometimes, the issue appears suddenly for most users. The best solution then was to install a shim or wedge to the crankshaft sensor, but this may not totally eradicate the problem. You may have to replace the flex plate.

7. Engine Problems

Engine problem is the most common issue for most Dodge Challenger, especially the 2008 to 2014 model years. Once the issue begins, you will likely need several replacements or a complete engine rebuild to sort out the problem.

Other problems typical to the Dodge Challenger are power module electrical issues, suspension wear and tear, and alternator failure.

FAQs On Are Dodge Challengers Reliable

How Much Is Dodge Challenger

The 2022 Dodge Challenger has a starting price of 32,188. The 2021 Dodge Challenger SXT starts at $28,295, while you can get the V8 engine trim R/T for $34,995. R/T trims with larger V8 engines can also get R/T trims around $40,000 to $50,000. The 2020 Dodge Challenger is between $30,145 to $84,942 depending on the trim level, features, and mileage. The 2019 Dodge Challenger cost between $28,342 to $64,555.

Is Dodge Challenger A Good Car

The Dodge Challenger is a good muscle car if you consider buying one. The engine lineup produces powerful horsepower; they have spacious interiors, user-friendly tech features, and trunk space. It comes standard with several safety features and provides a nice ride.

When Did The Dodge Challenger Come Out

The Dodge Challenger got into the limelight in 1969 as a 1970 model; it has the physique of a Chrysler, with a long hood and bigger interior space. It came with the base SE (Special Edition), the R/T(Road/Track), and T/A (Trans-Am) trim. It also has an impressive lineup of engines.

Where Is The Dodge Challenger Made

Dodge Challenger is built, assembled, and made in Ontario, Canada, at Chrysler’s Brampton Assembly plant. Dodge Chrysler is an American brand; however, many vehicles are not manufactured in America.

Are Challengers Reliable

The 2022 Dodge Challenger has a reliability score of 88 out of 100. The reliability score changes yearly, but most Dodge Challengers get a Reliability score of 80 and above; this number indicates that these muscle cars are worth investing in. They are built to last a long time, you won’t need to spend much on repair or replacement, and they offer great rides.

Are Dodge Cars Good

When describing Dodge cars, Good should not be your only adjective because Dodge cars are awesome, powerful, and reliable. They always offer performance, speed, and excellent rides, and their maintenance cost is not too high.

Is Dodge Reliable

A car’s reliability depends on how often it breaks down and the repair and replacement cost. Dodge cars are reliable because they are built to last a long time, the repair cost is not high, and they don’t break down often unless you push them too hard.

What Is A Scatpack

The Scatpack was typically among Dodge’s lineup in 1968. It went off and came back in 2014 as an alternative for the Dart, Challenger, and Charger. Scatpack Widebody trims and the Challenger Scatpack represent power and performance.

How Much Is Insurance For A Dodge Challenger

The average cost to insure a Dodge Challenger is $1692 annually, which means $141 per month. The price goes down with each model year, but the price for comprehensive coverage is between $260 to $404. Collision costs are around $400 to $688 annually, while liability costs are between $420 to $525.

How Long Is A Dodge Challenger

The Dodge Challenger is 16.5 feet long. It has a width of between 6.3 feet and 6.6 feet wide, depending on the model year and trim level. It is 4.6 to 4.9 feet tall, depending on the model year and trim level.

Is The Dodge Challenger A Good First Car

A Dodge Challenger is not a good first car, especially for a beginner. They are super fast; some Dodge Challenger produces up to 800 horsepower, which will be too much for a first-timer. However, if you are so determined to get a Dodge Challenger, the SXT trim will be a good pick because the horsepower is less than 300, it has a backup camera, and it has several safety features.

How To Make V6 Challenger Faster

To make your V6 Challenger faster, purchase a RIPP supercharger, which will cost you around $6000 to $10,000. Also, you can put racing stripes on it; you can jack up the radiator cap or drive and R/T under it.

Do Dodge Challengers Have A Lot Of Problems

Common issues you will encounter with your Dodge Challenger include transmission shifting, AC problems, electrical issues, faulty airbags, malfunctioning alternators, leaking steering fluid, etc.

How Many Seats Does A Dodge Challenger Have

The Dodge Challenger can seat five people in its two rows; it has a spacious interior.

Conclusion On Are Dodge Challengers Reliable

Regarding reliability, Dodge Challenger has a good rating (mostly 80 and above). Its incredible features contribute to its reliability and why it is among the best and most reliable muscle cars.

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