Whether you’re looking for a reliable muscle car with a powerful engine or top speed, the Dodge Challenger won’t let you down. Due to Dodge Challenger’s reputation for reliability in the USA market, it’s a reliable muscle car.
It has a reliability score of 80 out of 100, which is very high. It makes the Dodge Challenger an excellent choice for those looking for a car with power, mileage, and reliability.
As far as the Dodge Challengers reliability is concerned, it’s rated 3.8 out of 5 on average. Throughout this article, I’ve discussed the Dodge Challengers reliability.
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09 Factors that Determine Are Dodge Challengers Reliable or Not
The reliability of a car depends on 09 factors, including vehicle rating, problems, repair costs, power output, performance, crash safety technologies, long-lasting, fuel efficiency, and owner satisfaction.
Let’s discuss the 09 most important factors related to the Dodge Challengers separately:
01. Reliability Score
The reliability score from a trusted source is a very influential factor in purchasing a car. In the muscle car world, the Dodge Challenger is one of the most reliable cars. But in comparison with mid-size vehicles, it’s not a top dog.
The Dodge Challenger has a relatively high-reliability rating compared to its competitors. The average rating for the Dodge Challenger is 85/100.
On the other hand, the Ford Mustang’s reliability rank is also 85/100. But newer Dodge Challengers have a better reliability rating of approximately 88/100.
Let’s check out the last ten years’ Dodge Challengers reliability ratings given by J.D. Power:
- 88/100 [2022]
- 88/100 [2021]
- 87/100 [2020]
- 83/100 [2019]
- 84/100 [2018]
- 78/100 [2017]
- 86/100 [2016]
- 83/100 [2015]
- 76/100 [2014]
- 78/100 [2013]
02. Most Common Problems
The Dodge Challenger has some minor and major problems, just like any other vehicle. Understanding a car’s history and problems is crucial to determining its reliability.
In the past, Dodge and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recalled some Dodge Challengers for safety reasons. Let’s discuss some of the top Dodge Challengers problems:
Power Steering Assembly Leaks
There were many Dodge Challenger recalls in 2010 because of leaks in the power steering assembly. In this case, the steering assembly separates from other parts and leaks fluid. Therefore, the fluid leaked into the engine section and sometimes caused fires. Make sure this issue has been fixed before you buy a 2010 Dodge Challenger.
Airbag Deployment issues
Many users reported an airbag deployment issue due to a faulty propeller. But when the airbag explosion news came out, Chrysler recalled the 2008 to 2013 Dodge Challenger and solved the problem by replacing the propellant.
AC Problems
Except for the 2014 model, not all models have air conditioning problems. As a result of this issue, when the driver turns on the air conditioner, there is no impact, or sometimes excessive hot air comes out. An evaporator coil or compressor can fix the AC problem.
Electrical Issues
There’s a problem with the TIPM or Totally Integrated Power Module on 2008-2021 models. When the issue happens, the airbags deploy unexpectedly, the random horn sounds, and the starter doesn’t crank.
03. Repair Costs
As a buyer, you shouldn’t worry about repair costs if you choose Dodge Challengers. Because the average repair cost of a Dodge Challenger ranges between $470 and $630 per year, which is close to the national average.
04. Horsepower and Torque
If we consider horsepower and torque, the Dodge Challenger is one of the most powerful cars compared to its competitors. According to U.S. News, the 6.2L V8 supercharged Dodge Challenger provides 716 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque.
While the Chevrolet Camaro’s maximum horsepower is 650 hp, which is still lower than the Dodge Challenger. The 6.4L V8 Dodge Challenger has 483 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The V8 5.7L Dodge Challenger provides 375 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. It seems like none of the Challenger’s competitors can beat its horsepower and torque.
05. Engine Performance
Well performer Dodge Challenger is one of the top-performing cars in its class. The top speed of the 2022 Dodge Challenger is approximately 203 mph, while the 2022 Chevrolet Camaro’s top speed is about 190 mph.
That means the Dodge Challenger is 13 mph faster than the Camaro. The Dodge Challenger reaches 0-60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. Compared to the Dodge Challenger, the Chevrolet Camaro takes 3.4 seconds, and the Ford Mustang takes 5.1 seconds.
The Dodge Challenger provides up to 23 mpg on the highway and 15 mpg in the city. As for performance, the Dodge Challenger is a high-performing car, making it more reliable in its class.
06. Crash Safety Technologies
A vehicle’s technology ensures your safety and builds your trust. The Dodge Challenger comes with advanced safety technologies that increase its reliability.
Let’s take a look at Dodge Challengers’ crash safety technologies:
- Headlamps with automatic high-beam
- Automatic direction of rear cross-roads
- Collision warning system at full-speed
- Advanced rear camera
- Front-head protection system
- E-Stability control system
- All-speed traction control etc.
07. Lifespan
In terms of reliability, lifespan becomes the most influential factor. In the U.S., the average car’s lifespan can be predicted at 200,000 miles or 12 years.
A properly maintained Dodge Challenger can last up to 260,000 to 300,000 miles or 15 to 20 years without major problems. A long lifespan provides extra reliability for Dodge Challengers.
08. Owner Satisfaction Report
A previous owner’s satisfaction report is an excellent indicator of a car’s reliability.Before you purchase a car, you should check the owner’s satisfaction reports. Based on several surveys, 84% of Dodge Challenger users said they would buy a Dodge Challenger again.
09. Reliability by Year
Dodge Challenger has some unique features in different model years and a few differences in reliability. Based on the reliability of recent Dodge Challengers, some are discussed below:
2017 Dodge Challenger
When the 2017 Dodge Challenger was released, it was very popular because of its features and spacious interior. There are 10 trim levels, each with a different performance and price. The muscle car has 307 horsepower and reaches 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds. 78/100 is the reliability rating of the 2017 Dodge Challenger based on its overall performance.
2018 Dodge Challenger
This model comes with 13 different trim levels, which provide a variety of choices for the customer. The most exciting part of the 2018 Dodge Challenger is that it can produce around 830 hp and 770 lb-ft of torque.
Because of its capabilities, the Challenger easily outperforms its competitors, including the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang GT350. The 2018 Dodge Challenger easily achieves an 84/100 reliability rating due to its many advantages.
2019 Dodge Challenger
This model year comes with All Wheel Drive options, a V8 engine, and a stylish interior. Six trim levels are available for this model year with specific engines, features, and transmissions. The 2019 Dodge Challenger’s reliability rating is 83/100 based on its performance.
2020 Dodge Challenger
The model has 5 trim levels with special V8 supercharged, normal V8, and V6 engines. Upper door panels and stitched dashboard make 2020 Dodge Challengers unique.
The model gets an 87/100 reliability rating.
2021 Dodge Challenger
Several customizations, a supercharged engine, and a stylish interior make the 2021 Dodge Challenger one of the most popular models. Despite this, the 2018 Dodge Challenger is faster than the 2021 model.
But the 2021 Dodge Challenger is the most reliable model among the Dodge Challenger models due to its overall performance. In 2021 and 2022, both Dodge Challengers were rated 88 out of 100 for reliability.
General Reputation of Dodge Challengers
Dodge Challengers are more known for their high performance than for their reliability. Early models had reliability issues, but newer versions are almost free of major issues. Among sports cars, the Dodge Challenger’s newer models are highly reliable.
People Also Ask
Do Dodge Challengers have Good Engines?
Yes, all Dodge Challengers have powerful engines with high power outputs.The reputation of Dodge Challenger engines is unsurpassed in the automotive industry. Due to its superior speed, it is one of the fastest cars.
Are Challengers Good Reliable Cars?
No, not all Challengers are reliable cars. Early models of the third generation (2008-Present) weren’t very reliable because of some major issues. Most recent models from 2018 to 2022 are reliable.
Are Challengers Being Discontinued?
According to the Wall Street Journal and Gray News, Dodge Challenger and Charger production will be discontinued in December 2023. Electric vehicles will replace Dodge’s gas-powered Challenger and Charger.
To Conclude
Dodge Challenger was introduced in 1969 and continues to operate successfully to this day.Muscle cars like Dodge Challengers have special demands for shape and a sophisticated look on the road. The Dodge Challenger has fulfilled all those needs since its inception.