2012 Dodge Charger

Vehicle Introduction:

The 2012 Dodge Charger is a full-size muscle car that boasts a powerful HEMI V8 engine. It comes with two engine options: the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and the 5.7L HEMI V8. The base 3.6L V6 produces 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.7L HEMI V8 generates 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed or 8-speed automatic transmission. The Charger is known for its aggressive styling, spacious interior, and strong performance. However, it has garnered criticism for its subpar fuel economy and lackluster handling.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, engine smoke
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L HEMI V8

• MDS Lifter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noises, reduced engine performance
  • Solution: Replace the lifters
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Spark Plug Wire Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace the spark plug wires
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed or hard shifting
  • Solution: Replace the solenoids
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Clutch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering, slipping, or overheating
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Noise:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension
  • Solution: Replace the strut bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the vehicle lower than the front
  • Solution: Replace the rear springs or suspension components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly or fails to start the vehicle
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the drain, such as faulty electronics or a parasitic draw
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights flicker or fail to turn on
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors fail to lock or unlock electronically
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuators
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Trunk Lid Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Trunk lid does not open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace the trunk lid springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Radio Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Radio screen goes blank or becomes unresponsive
  • Solution: Update the software or replace the radio unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate control system fails to adjust temperature or airflow
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the issue, such as replacing the blend door actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Dodge Charger is a powerful and stylish muscle car with a few notable issues. The most severe and expensive issues include MDS lifter failure and transmission problems. The electrical, exterior, and interior issues tend to be less costly and easier to fix. Overall, the Charger has a moderate to high cost of ownership due to the potential for expensive repairs.