2011 Dodge Challenger
The 2011 Dodge Challenger is a retro-styled muscle car that blends classic design with modern performance. Engine options for this year included the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the 5.7L Hemi V8, and the 6.4L Hemi V8. The 3.6L V6 produced around 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed automatic (with the V6) and either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual (with the V8 engines). Owners generally appreciate the Challenger’s bold styling, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. Common dislikes include its large size, limited visibility, and relatively poor fuel economy.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Cylinder Head Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported cylinder head failures, often manifesting as a ticking noise, misfires, and/or illumination of the check engine light. This issue seems to be more prevalent in earlier production years of the Pentastar V6.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected cylinder head.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Filter Housing Leak
- Description/Symptoms: The plastic oil filter housing can crack or warp, leading to oil leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing, often with an updated aluminum version to prevent future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- HEMI Tick
- Description/Symptoms: A distinct ticking or tapping sound emanating from the engine, often more noticeable at idle. While the exact cause is debated, it’s often attributed to lifter issues or exhaust manifold leaks.
- Solution: Diagnosis can be challenging. Solutions range from exhaust manifold bolt replacement to lifter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (bolt replacement) - $2,000+ (lifter replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts can cause exhaust leaks, leading to a ticking or hissing sound, reduced fuel economy, and a burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the broken bolts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
6.4L Hemi V8
- HEMI Tick
- Description/Symptoms: A distinct ticking or tapping sound emanating from the engine, often more noticeable at idle. While the exact cause is debated, it’s often attributed to lifter issues or exhaust manifold leaks.
- Solution: Diagnosis can be challenging. Solutions range from exhaust manifold bolt replacement to lifter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (bolt replacement) - $2,000+ (lifter replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts can cause exhaust leaks, leading to a ticking or hissing sound, reduced fuel economy, and a burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the broken bolts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (V6 & 5.7L Hemi)
- Shifter problems/Not being able to shift out of park
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported shifter problems, not being able to shift out of park or hard shifting between gears.
- Solution: Replacement of the entire shifter assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic (V6 & 5.7L Hemi)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Manual (5.7L & 6.4L Hemi)
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, or complete failure of the clutch.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
- Solution: Replacement of worn rear suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: A wide range of electrical problems can stem from a faulty TIPM, including fuel pump relay failure (causing stalling or no-start conditions), issues with the windshield wipers, power windows, and door locks.
- Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
- Recalls: None Found
- Radio/Uconnect Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent radio function, Bluetooth connectivity problems, or complete failure of the Uconnect system.
- Solution: Software updates or replacement of the radio unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $800+ (radio replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or the installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (dashboard replacement), $50 - $200 (dashboard cover)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2011 Dodge Challenger has several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.6L V6 cylinder heads and the “HEMI tick” in V8 engines, can lead to significant repair costs. Electrical issues with the TIPM are also a concern. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others can be costly. Overall, it’s important to thoroughly inspect a 2011 Challenger before purchase and be prepared for potential repairs. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.