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2010 Dodge Challenger

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here is a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints for the 2010 Dodge Challenger, organized by category and engine/transmission configuration.

The 2010 Dodge Challenger is a retro-styled muscle car that offered a blend of performance and classic design. Engine options included the 3.5L V6 (250 hp, 250 lb-ft of torque), the 5.7L HEMI V8 (372 hp, 398 lb-ft of torque in manual; 375 hp, 404 lb-ft of torque in automatic), and the 6.1L HEMI V8 (425 hp, 420 lb-ft of torque) in the SRT8 model. Transmissions included a 4-speed automatic (3.5L V6), a 5-speed automatic (5.7L V8), a 6-speed manual (5.7L and 6.1L V8), and a 5-speed automatic (6.1L V8). Owners often praised the Challenger’s bold styling, powerful engine options, and comfortable ride. Common dislikes included its large size, limited rear visibility, and fuel economy.

Engine

3.5L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the vehicle, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to timing chain slap and potential engine damage. Symptoms may include a rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.7L HEMI V8

  • HEMI Tick
    • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking noise coming from the engine, often described as the “HEMI tick.” This can be caused by various factors, including exhaust manifold leaks, lifter issues, or normal engine noise. It can be difficult to diagnose the exact cause.
    • Solution: If the issue is an exhaust manifold leak, replacing the manifold gasket or the manifold itself can resolve the issue. If it is a lifter issue, replacing the lifters may be necessary. In some cases, the tick is considered normal operation.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Exhaust Manifold Leak: $200 - $800+; Lifter Replacement: $1000 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: The exhaust manifold bolts are prone to breaking, leading to exhaust leaks and a characteristic ticking or hissing noise, especially when the engine is cold.
    • Solution: Replacing the broken exhaust manifold bolts and possibly the exhaust manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

6.1L HEMI V8

  • Valve Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Valve springs in the 6.1L HEMI can be prone to failure, especially under high performance driving conditions. Symptoms include misfires, loss of power, and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve springs. In some cases, the camshaft and lifters may also need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (3.5L V6)

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission exhibits harsh or jerky shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear.
    • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may help. In some cases, a valve body repair or replacement is needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Flush: $100 - $200; Valve Body Repair/Replacement: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (5.7L and 6.1L V8)

  • Shifter Stuck in Park
    • Description/Symptoms: The shift lever becomes stuck in the Park position.
    • Solution: Replacing the brake light switch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Suspension Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. This can be caused by worn sway bar links, ball joints, or struts.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn suspension components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sway Bar Links: $100 - $300; Ball Joints: $200 - $500; Struts: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The TIPM can experience various electrical issues, including fuel pump relay failure (causing no-start conditions), intermittent stalling, and issues with other electrical components.
    • Solution: Replacing the TIPM. Some repair shops offer repair services for specific TIPM issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: TIPM Replacement: $800 - $1500+; TIPM Repair: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Windshield wipers failing to operate or operating erratically.
    • Solution: Replacing the windshield wiper motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate properly, including sticking or not responding to the switch.
    • Solution: Replacing the power window motor or regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rear Spoiler Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing in the factory rear spoiler, often near the mounting points.
    • Solution: Replacing the rear spoiler.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sun Visor Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors become loose and sag down, obstructing the driver’s view.
    • Solution: Replacing the sun visors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per visor
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Dodge Challenger has several potential issues that buyers should be aware of. Engine problems range from oil leaks and timing chain issues in the V6 to the “HEMI tick” and exhaust manifold bolt failures in the V8s. Electrical problems, particularly with the TIPM, can be significant and costly to repair. Suspension and interior issues, while less severe, can still be annoying. The estimated cost to fix these issues varies widely, from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to over $1500 for major engine or electrical work. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and consider having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing problems.

Dodge, Challenger
Dodge Challenger 2010
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