What are the most common Dodge Challenger problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 3,208+ owner reports, the 2018-2018 Dodge Challenger has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Driveshaft Failure / U-Joint Failure, Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Rack Failure, HEMI Lifter/MDS Tick. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Challenger reliable?
The 2018-2018 Dodge Challenger has 8 known issues documented across 3,208+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Driveshaft Failure / U-Joint Failure and Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Rack Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. 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 $100 to $2,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Driveshaft Failure / U-Joint Failure, typically costs $300-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2015-2023 Dodge Challenger Driveshaft Failure / U-Joint Failure?
The rear driveshaft on high-powered Challengers can experience premature U-joint failure or driveshaft issues, especially under hard launches, drag racing, or with aftermarket power upgrades. The factory driveshaft may not handle repeated high-torque loads. Some owners report mul… Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2023 Dodge Challenger Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Rack Failure?
The EPS rack assembly can fail suddenly, causing complete loss of steering assist while driving. Circuit board contamination in the EPS module causes short circuit. Corrosion in rack assembly compounds the issue. Recalls S19 (NHTSA 16V-167) and VB8 (NHTSA 19V-812) cover some vehi… Repairs typically run $1,200-$2,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2021 Dodge Challenger HEMI Lifter/MDS Tick?
HEMI engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can develop a ticking noise from the hydraulic lifters. This is often related to the MDS deactivation system. Some owners disable MDS via tuner to eliminate the issue. Repairs typically run $100-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2021 Dodge Challenger OEM Radiator Premature Failure?
The factory plastic-tank radiators on Challengers are prone to cracking and leaking, especially under spirited driving or in hot climates. The crimped plastic end tanks can fail at the seams. Many owners report needing radiator replacements between 60,000-100,000 miles. Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2023 Dodge Challenger Pentastar 3.6L Oil Filter Housing Leak?
The plastic oil filter housing warps and cracks from heat cycling, causing oil leaks from front of engine near oil filter. In severe cases coolant and oil can mix. Common across all Pentastar 3.6L vehicles (Challenger, Charger, 300, Jeep, Ram). Repairs typically run $400-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2023 Dodge Challenger Pentastar V6 Rocker Arm/Lifter Tick?
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine can develop a ticking noise from worn rocker arms. Unlike the HEMI MDS tick, this is caused by the roller follower rocker arms wearing out prematurely. The issue typically appears between 50,000-100,000 miles and is more common on 2011-2013 engines bu… Repairs typically run $800-$1,400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2008-2023 Dodge Challenger HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure?
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/… Repairs typically run $400-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2023 Dodge Challenger ZF 8-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting and Valve Body Failure?
The ZF 8HP45/8HP70 8-speed automatic suffers from harsh downshifts (especially 2nd to 1st), rough upshifts with RPM spikes, and clunking when cold. Ferrous or aluminum debris in 3-4 shift pressure valves is the primary failure point. Valve body is the most common component needin… Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: medium.
