2009 Dodge Charger

Introduction

The 2009 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan available with various engine and transmission options. It offers a spacious cabin, comfortable ride, and strong performance. However, it has received some criticism for its fuel economy and handling.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2009 Chargers equipped with the 3.5L V6 may experience high oil consumption, leading to frequent oil top-ups or low oil pressure warnings.
  • Solution: Replace the oil-control rings or pistons.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: If the cylinder head gasket fails, it can cause coolant leaks, overheating, and rough engine operation.
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Valve Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Early model year 2009 Chargers with the 5.7L Hemi V8 may develop a problem where the valve seats come loose, causing misfires, loss of power, or engine failure.
  • Solution: Replace the valve seats.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping or Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission may slip or hesitate during gear changes, or shift harshly.
  • Solution: Replace or recondition the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may leak fluid from the pan, seals, or lines, causing low fluid levels and transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged struts or shocks can lead to a rough ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ for all four
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints can cause clunking or popping noises when turning or driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ for all four
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain prematurely due to a parasitic draw from the electrical system.
  • Solution: Test and isolate the source of the draw and repair the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail to charge the battery, causing electrical problems and eventually a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The door locks may not engage or disengage properly, causing difficulty entering or exiting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ for one door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The window regulator may fail, preventing the window from opening or closing.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator motor or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ for one window
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Fade
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard on some 2009 Chargers may fade or discolor under prolonged sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor may fail, causing no air to blow through the vents.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Dodge Charger has a mix of common and more severe issues that vary depending on the engine and transmission options. Issues range from minor annoyances like dashboard fade to more costly problems like valve seat failure. While the overall severity of the issues is not as high as some other vehicles, the cost of repairs can be significant.