2009 Dodge Charger

2009 Dodge Charger

Overview

The 2009 Dodge Charger, a full-size sedan known for its muscular styling and rear-wheel-drive platform, offered a range of powertrain options to cater to different performance and efficiency needs. While generally considered a robust vehicle, like any car, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential long-term ownership considerations for the various engine and transmission configurations available in the 2009 model year.

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Engine

3.5L V6

Intake Manifold Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Oil Cooler Line Leaks

• Symptoms: Oil in coolant, coolant loss, potential engine damage if not addressed.
• Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler lines.
• Cost: $300 - $500

5.7L HEMI V8

MDS (Multi-Displacement System) Issues

• Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, check engine light, loss of power when switching to V4 mode.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of MDS solenoids, lifters, or related components. Some owners opt to disable MDS.
• Cost: $500 - $1500+

Oil Cooler Line Leaks

• Symptoms: Oil in coolant, coolant loss, potential engine damage if not addressed.
• Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler lines.
• Cost: $300 - $500

6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (W5A580)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $500 - $3000+

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, difficulty engaging gears.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Electrical

General Electrical System

Window Regulator Failures

• Symptoms: Power windows not working, slow operation, grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator assembly.
• Cost: $200 - $400

TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failures

• Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, non-starting, various warning lights, fuel pump issues.
• Solution: Replacement of the TIPM module.
• Cost: $600 - $1000

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Cabin Components

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2009 Dodge Charger presents a mixed reliability profile. While the core structure and many components are robust, specific powertrain and electrical systems have documented issues. The 3.5L V6 and 5.7L HEMI V8 engines can experience coolant leaks and oil cooler line problems, with the HEMI also susceptible to MDS-related faults. The 5-speed automatic transmission may develop shifting problems or torque converter issues. Electrically, window regulators and the TIPM module are known failure points. The SRT8’s 6.1L HEMI and the exterior/interior components generally fare better with fewer widespread complaints. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms are crucial for mitigating potential repair costs and ensuring long-term reliability.