Post
Research the Car Logo

2008 Dodge Charger

Posted
By Research the Car 4 min read

Here’s a breakdown of common problems reported by owners of the 2008 Dodge Charger, categorized by system and engine/transmission option, along with potential solutions and estimated repair costs. The 2008 Dodge Charger is a popular full-size sedan known for its aggressive styling, available V8 power, and relatively affordable price point. Engine options include the 2.7L V6 (190 hp, 190 lb-ft of torque), the 3.5L V6 (250 hp, 250 lb-ft of torque), the 5.7L Hemi V8 (340 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque), and the 6.1L Hemi V8 (425 hp, 420 lb-ft of torque) found in the SRT8 model. Transmission options consist of a 4-speed automatic (primarily with the 2.7L), and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Charger’s spacious interior and bold design, but common complaints include reliability issues, especially with electrical components, and higher fuel consumption for V8 models.

Engine

2.7L V6

  • Engine Sludge/Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, engine knocking, and potential engine failure due to sludge buildup.
    • Solution: Regular oil changes using high-quality synthetic oil can help. If sludge is already present, an engine flush might be attempted, but engine replacement may be necessary in severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Engine flush: $100 - $300; Engine replacement: $3,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, indicating stretched timing chains or faulty tensioners. Can lead to engine misfires and eventually engine failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

  • HEMI Tick (Lifter Noise)
    • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise from the engine, often more noticeable when the engine is warm. Attributed to faulty lifters or exhaust manifold leaks.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected lifters (often requires camshaft replacement as well), or repairing exhaust manifold leaks (broken bolts are common).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Lifter replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+; Exhaust manifold repair: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking sound when accelerating or when the engine is cold that goes away after the car warms up. A leaking exhaust manifold.
    • Solution: Replacing the broken bolts and the exhaust manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found

6.1L Hemi V8

  • Valve Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, loss of power, and potential engine damage. The 6.1L Hemi can experience valve spring failure, especially under high-performance driving conditions.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Rough Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and eventual transmission failure.
    • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change may help in early stages. More severe cases may require valve body repair or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush: $150 - $300; Valve body repair: $500 - $1,200; Transmission rebuild/replacement: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, particularly under light acceleration. Can also lead to transmission overheating.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacing the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Bushing replacement: $200 - $500 per side; Control arm replacement: $300 - $700 per side.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Strut Mount Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking, rattling or squeaking coming from the front or rear struts. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: No start condition, fuel pump relay failure, stalling, erratic operation of various electrical components (windows, door locks, lights, wipers).
    • Solution: Replacing the TIPM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Clock Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light illumination, horn malfunction, and/or loss of steering wheel controls.
    • Solution: Replacing the clock spring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Wiring Harness Chafing
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as lights flickering or not working, or sensors giving incorrect readings.
    • Solution: Locating and repairing the chafed wires, often involving re-routing and protecting the harness.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking, especially in colder climates.
    • Solution: Replacing the door handle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per door.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in sun-exposed areas.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Dodge Charger has several common problems, ranging from relatively minor to potentially major and expensive. Engine issues, particularly with the 2.7L and 5.7L engines, and electrical problems with the TIPM are significant concerns. Suspension issues are also prevalent and can affect the car’s handling and ride quality. The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue, but some repairs, such as engine or transmission replacement, can be quite expensive. It’s advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential issues before buying a used 2008 Charger.

Dodge, Charger
Dodge Charger 2008
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.