2015 Dodge Charger
The 2015 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that offers a blend of performance, style, and practicality. It was available with a range of engine options, including a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (292 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (370 hp, 395 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.4L Hemi V8 (485 hp, 475 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Charger’s aggressive styling, spacious interior, and powerful engine options. Common dislikes include the car’s large size, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and its relatively poor fuel economy, especially with the V8 engines.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from the oil cooler housing, especially on models with higher mileage. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car and the smell of burning oil.
- Solution: Replace the oil cooler housing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Rocker Arms/Lifters
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise coming from the engine, especially during cold starts. Can lead to misfires and reduced engine performance.
- Solution: Replace the faulty rocker arms and/or lifters.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- Hemi Tick (Lifter Failure)
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound coming from the engine, particularly when cold. This is often caused by a failing lifter due to the Multi-Displacement System (MDS). Can eventually lead to camshaft damage.
- Solution: Replace the affected lifters and potentially the camshaft. Disabling MDS may prevent recurrence.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts can cause exhaust leaks, leading to a hissing sound and potentially reduced fuel economy.
- Solution: Replace the broken bolts, sometimes requiring removal and resurfacing of the exhaust manifold.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.4L Hemi V8
- Hemi Tick (Lifter Failure)
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound coming from the engine, particularly when cold. This is often caused by a failing lifter. Can eventually lead to camshaft damage.
- Solution: Replace the affected lifters and potentially the camshaft.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts can cause exhaust leaks, leading to a hissing sound and potentially reduced fuel economy.
- Solution: Replace the broken bolts, sometimes requiring removal and resurfacing of the exhaust manifold.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, especially when cold. Hesitation during acceleration.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. Other cases may require valve body replacement or, in more severe cases, complete transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $4,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: A shaking or shuddering sensation, particularly at low speeds or during light acceleration. This is often caused by torque converter clutch issues.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement or transmission flush.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Loss of Power/ Complete Transmission Failure
- Description/Symptoms: In rare cases, the transmission may fail completely, leading to a loss of power and the inability to shift gears.
- Solution: Complete transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Squeaking/Creaking Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. This is often due to worn-out control arm bushings or ball joints.
- Solution: Replace the worn bushings or ball joints, or the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Uconnect System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with the Uconnect infotainment system, including freezing, crashing, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and unresponsive touchscreen.
- Solution: Software updates may fix some issues. In some cases, the Uconnect module may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,000+ (Module Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- TPMS Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors failing prematurely, resulting in inaccurate readings or no readings at all.
- Solution: Replace the faulty TPMS sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, leading to difficulty starting the car, especially after it has been sitting for a while. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
- Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic draw, such as a faulty module or aftermarket accessory.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear Light Bar Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Sections of the LED rear light bar (the full width light bar) failing or flickering.
- Solution: Replacement of the light bar assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater/Cooler Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters or coolers not working or working intermittently. This can be due to a faulty heating/cooling element or a problem with the control module.
- Solution: Replace the faulty heating/cooling element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Dodge Charger has a few common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine issues, especially those related to the 5.7L and 6.4L Hemi engines, can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, while not as frequent, can also be expensive. Electrical issues, such as Uconnect problems, can be frustrating. Suspension noises, and exterior lighting malfunctions are also common. When considering a 2015 Charger, it’s essential to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic and be prepared for potential maintenance costs.