2007 Dodge Charger
The 2007 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that blends muscle car aesthetics with practicality. Engine options for the 2007 Charger include a 2.7L V6 (190 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque), a 3.5L V6 (250 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (340 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.1L Hemi V8 (425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque) available in the SRT8 model. The 2.7L and 3.5L engines are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 5.7L and 6.1L engines are paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Charger’s bold styling, spacious interior, and powerful engine options, especially the Hemi V8s. Common complaints include issues with reliability, particularly electrical problems, and fuel economy, especially with the larger engines.
Engine
2.7L V6
- Engine Sludge Buildup
- Description/Symptoms: Sludge buildup in the engine can cause poor performance, rough idling, and potential engine damage. This is often caused by infrequent oil changes.
- Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil can help prevent sludge buildup. In severe cases, engine cleaning or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (oil change) - $3000+ (engine replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
3.5L V6
- Timing Chain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or fail, leading to engine misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage. This is often accompanied by a rattling noise from the engine.
- Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- Hemi Tick
- Description/Symptoms: A distinct ticking noise from the engine, often more noticeable at idle. This is frequently attributed to lifter noise.
- Solution: Some owners try using heavier-weight oil or additives. In more severe cases, lifter or camshaft replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (oil change) - $2000+ (camshaft replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
6.1L Hemi V8
- Valve Spring Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of valve springs in the 6.1L Hemi, leading to reduced performance, misfires, and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replacement of valve springs, often upgraded with aftermarket performance springs for increased durability.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic (paired with 2.7L and 3.5L V6 engines)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may improve the condition. Valve body issues might require repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $800+ (valve body repair)
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic (paired with 5.7L and 6.1L Hemi V8 engines)
- Transmission Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, especially under heavy load or acceleration.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush, filter replacement, or valve body repair may resolve the issue. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the front suspension ball joints, leading to excessive play, noise, and potential loss of control.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn or damaged ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Suspension Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged rear suspension bushings, leading to excessive movement, noise, and poor handling.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn or damaged bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The TIPM is a central electrical control unit. Failures can cause a wide range of issues, including fuel pump relay failure (leading to stalling or no-start conditions), power window malfunctions, and lighting problems.
- Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the power window motors, preventing the windows from operating properly.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty power window motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rusting of the Rear Quarter Panels
- Description/Symptoms: Rust develops along the rear quarter panels, especially near the wheel wells.
- Solution: Repair and repainting of the affected area.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side depending on severity
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (cover) - $1500+ (dashboard replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sun Visor Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Sun visors that no longer stay in the upright position and constantly sag down.
- Solution: Replacement of the sun visors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per visor
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2007 Dodge Charger has a mix of potential issues ranging from relatively minor to fairly significant. Electrical issues with the TIPM and engine problems, particularly related to sludge buildup, timing chains, and valve springs, can be costly. Suspension issues can affect handling and safety. Interior problems can impact the overall driving experience. While not all 2007 Chargers will experience all of these issues, potential buyers should be aware of them and carefully inspect any vehicle they are considering purchasing. Overall, the cost to maintain and repair a 2007 Dodge Charger can be moderate to high, depending on the specific issues encountered.