2008 Dodge Challenger

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2008 Dodge Challenger, categorized by component and engine/transmission configuration.

The 2008 Dodge Challenger marked the return of a muscle car icon. Engine options included a 3.5L V6 producing 250 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, a 5.7L HEMI V8 making 372 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque (with the manual transmission) or 340 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque (with the automatic), and later in the year, a 6.1L HEMI V8 boasting 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The available transmissions were a 5-speed automatic (with the 3.5L and lower-output 5.7L HEMI) and a 6-speed manual (with the higher-output 5.7L and the 6.1L HEMI). Many owners appreciated the Challenger’s retro styling and powerful engines. Common complaints often revolved around build quality issues, electrical glitches, and the car’s relatively heavy weight impacting handling.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, check engine light illumination. Often traced to faulty ignition coils.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L HEMI V8

• HEMI Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise emanating from the engine, often most noticeable at idle. The cause is often from faulty lifters.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft and lifters is often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell. Often traced to valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket leaks.
  • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.1L HEMI V8

• Valve Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, engine misfires, and in severe cases, engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace valve springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky gear changes, particularly between first and second gear.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In some cases, valve body issues may require repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal sticking.
  • Solution: Replace clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Strut Mounts/Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, particularly over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace worn strut mounts and/or bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic electrical behavior, including stalling, headlights flickering, or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as malfunctioning lights or sensors. Corrosion or damage to wiring harnesses can cause these problems.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of damaged wiring harnesses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Spoiler Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the rear spoiler.
  • Solution: Replacement of the spoiler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck while opening or closing.
  • Solution: Replace sunroof motor, realign sunroof, or replace faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2008 Dodge Challenger, while visually appealing and powerful, has some common problem areas. Engine issues, particularly with the HEMI engines (lifter tick, valve spring failure), can be costly. Electrical problems stemming from the TIPM are also a concern. Suspension wear and interior glitches can add to the ownership expense. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, but potential buyers should be aware and thoroughly inspect any used Challenger before purchase.