What are the most common Dodge Challenger problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 320+ owner reports, the 2009-2009 Dodge Challenger has 1 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Dodge Challenger reliable?

The 2009-2009 Dodge Challenger has 1 known issues documented across 320+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Challenger problems?

Repair costs for known Dodge Challenger issues range from $400 to $1,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

2009 Dodge Challenger Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2009 Dodge Challenger Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know | Au7o

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Community Reported

320 owners

On the 2008-2023 Dodge Challenger, exhaust manifold bolts break due to thermal cycling causing the bolts to become brittle and snap, especially on the passenger side. Dissimilar metals (iron manifold, aluminum head) accelerate the process. Creates a ticking noise at cold startup. Common across all HEMI-powered LX/LC platform vehicles.

This issue also affects: BMW X6, Chevrolet Equinox, Chrysler 200

Common Symptoms

Ticking or exhaust leak noise at cold startup
Noise partially diminishes as engine warms
Visible exhaust soot around manifold flanges
Failed emissions inspection
Exhaust smell in engine bay

How to Fix

Extract broken bolts using ProMAXX drill template tool kit (PMXA200PROP). Replace with Mopar double-ended studs (6509863AA/6510141AA) and Grade 8 nuts instead of bolts. Apply anti-seize on new hardware. Felpro gasket set MS96692 for 2008-2014.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 320+ owners who fixed this issue

TipMopar double-ended studs 6509863AA/6510141AA with Grade 8 nuts are far more durable than OEM bolts 06507746AA. ProMAXX PMXA200PROP drill template for safe extraction
TipDorman stainless steel bolt set 03309HP is an aftermarket alternative. Felpro MS96692 gasket set for 2008-2014. Always use new gaskets
NoteAlways apply anti-seize compound on new hardware to prevent future seizure from thermal cycling
UpgradeExhaust manifold gasket set seals exhaust leaks at the head (Fel-Pro Exhaust Manifold Gasket Set)
View on Amazon
UpgradeExhaust manifold stud kit replaces broken or corroded studs (Dorman Exhaust Manifold Stud Kit)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,500

Research This Issue

320+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence320 reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2025Reviewed Feb 2026

⚠️NHTSA Recalls9 recalls

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

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."

Campaign #22V50400014/07/2022

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

Campaign #22V80800027/10/2022

PARKING BRAKE

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."

Campaign #24V11200015/02/2024

SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS

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."

Campaign #24V57300001/08/2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

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."

Campaign #21V66400026/08/2021

+ 4 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

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2009 Dodge Challenger Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 1 Known Issues

2008-2023 Dodge Challenger: HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure#