The Challenger remains popular today as a relatively affordable and well-supported modern muscle coupe, and the range of engine choices allows for trade-offs to be made for fuel mileage or initial cost vs. raw horsepower and torque
The Dodge Challenger was initially introduced in 1970 at the height of the muscle car wars, but the third generation we’ll be discussing today debuted in 2008. There are dozens upon dozens of versions of the Challenger produced in this 13-year span, ranging from V6 economy-minded base variants to the legendary 9-second-quarter-mile Demon package with a 6.2L supercharged V8.
The Challenger remains popular today as a relatively affordable and well-supported modern muscle coupe, and the range of engine choices allows for trade-offs to be made for fuel mileage or initial cost vs. raw horsepower and torque. Dodge continues to offer new versions of the Challenger straight from the dealership, but you also have the option to choose from tens of thousands of used vehicles, as well. Are they safe to buy?
The Dodge Challenger is an iconic sports car that has stood the test of time, maintaining popularity and status over multiple decades. But as things change year to year, new designs are implemented, and new tech emerges, a vehicle will never be exactly the same from one model year to the next.
The Dodge Challenger is no exception to this rule, with some model years more impressive than others. From best to worst, here’s the one model year to stay away from.
Reliability issues of Dodge Challenger
Electrical issues as a result of completely incorporated power Module (TIPM)
A few owners of the 2008-2021 dodge Challenger have suggested experiencing the famous absolutely integrated electricity Module (TIPM) hassle, usually located in different ward off fashions. The TIPM basically controls all sidesteps electrical operations, such as activating your windshield wipers and fuel pump. It has a tendency to fail in a few stay away from models, consisting of the Challenger. Symptoms encompass a couple of disturbing headaches including the subsequent:
- Airbags may additionally install unexpectedly or no longer set up as supposed
- Starter crank may additionally fail
- The horn is going off randomly
- Power home windows may also prompt randomly or not work at all
Small recalls have been issued to restore pick dodge fashions. In case you suspect that your Challenger has a horrific TIPM, it’s first-class to invite a expert for correct prognosis and repair as soon as you can.
Harsh Transmission moving
One of the most stated 2009-2016 keep away from Challenger issues is its harsh transmission shifting. Some proprietors have shared that it usually occurs with no apparent cause when their vehicle hits around 34,800 miles. It begins off with an unusual metal noise when transferring. It can grow to be a sizeable thump, coming from the transmission every time you shift gears.
A few have even shared that their transmission won’t have interaction at all. It can also cause your check engine light to return on; however turn out okay with regular diagnostics if taken on your dealership for inspection. Avert is aware of the problem and released an up to date transmission manage module (TCM) software program to restore it.
Air conditioning (AC) Malfunction
Some automobile owners have suggested 2014 keep away from Challenger AC troubles. They’ve shared that it would abruptly blow hot air or fail altogether. They’ve taken their motors to mechanics and the most commonplace motive is refrigerant leaks, which can also seem around the compressor, inside the cabin, or below the vehicle. A few have been able to clear up the issue by changing the compressor, evaporator coil, or both. Every other AC hassle mentioned by way of some Challenger proprietors is that the heater would shut off after running for round 5 mins. Some have shared that their sellers informed them that it deliberately shuts off on its personal whilst the cabin becomes too hot. Don’t hesitate to take a journey on your mechanic if you suspect that something is wrong with your Challenger’s AC.
Exploding Airbags
One of the maximum commonplace 2008-2013 circumvents Challenger issues is its airbag inflators built with faulty propellants. The difficulty triggered one of the biggest recollects in U.S. History, affecting round 100 million keep away from vehicles. The propellant turned into observed to be volatile, which can also purpose the airbags to explode as soon as deployed. The inflator may additionally shatter alongside the explosion and fling metal debris at car occupants that could motive damage and extreme damage. A few incidents and casualties were related to stay away form’s inadequate airbags. The country wide dual carriageway traffic protection management (NHTSA) has counselled owners of affected automobiles to avoid driving their vehicles and make contact with them or look up their vehicle identity numbers (VINs) right away.
Failing Alternator
Many proprietors have also encountered 2011 circumvent Challenger alternator issues. A few have shared that they observed ordinary squealing noises coming from the hood, accompanied by way of a distinct burning scent.
A don’t forget become issued because the failing alternator can cause sudden stalling, making the vehicle more liable to accidents or crashes. It may additionally short circuit that may begin an automobile hearth. Leaving a faulty alternator unaddressed may also emerge as risky and dangerous to human beings in the automobile. A few have shared that an alternator alternative can remedy the hassle, however it is able to be high-quality to look up your VIN first to check in case your Challenger’s blanketed in any remembers. If it is, you will be able to get it fixed at your dealership without spending a dime.
Test Engine light turns on
The 2009-2010 avoid Challenger is understood to have crankshaft function sensor signal loss, which may additionally trigger its test engine mild with errors code P0339. It generally takes place out of the blue and may be repaired by way of adding a wedge or shim to your crankshaft sensor. But, this may not definitely correct the problem. Your Challenger might also need a flex plate substitute to totally solve the difficulty.
Leaky strength steering strain Hose assembly
A leaky electricity steerage strain hose assembly is one of the 2010 sidestep Challenger troubles that triggered a protection don’t forget in 2010. Affected cars had assemblies with corrugated links which have the tendency to split, causing steering fluid leaks. Flammable fluid might also drip on searing engine components that can ignite a vehicle fire. It could grow to be extraordinarily dangerous, so it’s best to test your VIN and get in touch with your dealership at once for further statistics. Keep away from will inspect and replace your faulty power guidance strain hose meeting free of charge if it’s tormented by any recalls.
Conclusion
It’s important to study any troubles that can also come into knowledge with your Dodge Challenger’s model year before making a buy. Both new and used vehicles may show off troubles over time, so that you need to understand what to do in the event that they appear. As a accountable vehicle proprietor, you ought to take note of diverse capability avert Challenger problems of the version year you’re making plans to shop.