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2016 Dodge Challenger

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2016 Dodge Challenger is a popular muscle car known for its aggressive styling and powerful engine options. The available engines for this year included a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (305 horsepower, 268 lb-ft of torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (375 horsepower, 410 lb-ft of torque), a 6.4L Hemi V8 (485 horsepower, 475 lb-ft of torque), and the supercharged 6.2L Hemi SRT Hellcat V8 (707 horsepower, 650 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options included a TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic and a Tremec 6-speed manual, depending on the engine. People generally love the Challenger’s retro styling, powerful engine options, and spacious interior for a muscle car. Common complaints often revolve around its large size, somewhat cumbersome handling (especially on base models), and fuel economy, particularly with the V8 engines.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur around the oil filter adapter or the valve cover gaskets. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots under the car, and a burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or component. For the oil filter adapter, a redesigned part may be available.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

  • “Hemi Tick” - Exhaust Manifold Bolts
    • Description/Symptoms: A ticking noise, often described as the “Hemi tick,” can be caused by broken exhaust manifold bolts. This is more prevalent on earlier Hemi engines but can still occur on the 2016 models. The noise is most noticeable upon cold starts.
    • Solution: Replace the broken exhaust manifold bolts, or the entire manifold if it is warped.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6.4L Hemi V8

  • Valve Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Valve springs can fail, leading to misfires, rough running, and a loss of power. This is more common in higher mileage vehicles or those that are tracked/raced.
    • Solution: Replace the failed valve springs. In some cases, it’s recommended to replace all valve springs as a preventative measure.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (Hellcat)

  • Supercharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the supercharger can manifest as a loss of boost, unusual noises (whining, rattling), and reduced performance.
    • Solution: Diagnosing supercharger issues can be complex. Repairs may involve replacing the supercharger snout, bearings, or even the entire supercharger unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

TorqueFlite 8-Speed Automatic (All Engines except 6-Speed Manual)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report rough or delayed shifting, especially between certain gears. Hesitation upon acceleration is also a common complaint. This issue can be more prevalent with the earlier versions of the 8-speed transmission.
    • Solution: A transmission software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, a valve body replacement or complete transmission overhaul may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Tremec 6-Speed Manual (5.7L and 6.4L)

  • Clutch Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported clutch issues, including premature wear, difficulty engaging gears, and clutch slippage.
    • Solution: Clutch replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Squeaking/Creaking Noises
    • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises coming from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. This is often attributed to worn-out bushings or ball joints.
    • Solution: Replace worn-out bushings, ball joints, or other suspension components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Uconnect System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the Uconnect infotainment system, including freezing, crashing, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and unresponsive touchscreens.
    • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In some cases, the Uconnect module may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) - $1,000+ (for module replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after it has been sitting for a while.
    • Solution: Identifying the source of the parasitic drain is key. This may involve testing different circuits and components. A failing alternator or a malfunctioning module could be the culprit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Clock Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clock spring (responsible for various electrical functions in the steering wheel) may fail, leading to issues with the horn, airbag, and steering wheel controls.
    • Solution: Replace the clock spring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rear Spoiler/Deck Lid Vibration
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or excessive movement of the rear spoiler or deck lid, especially at higher speeds.
    • Solution: Tighten or replace mounting hardware. In some cases, reinforcement or aftermarket solutions may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions, including difficulty opening or closing, leaks, and unusual noises.
    • Solution: Inspect and lubricate the sunroof tracks and seals. Repair or replace the sunroof motor or other faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Heater Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the seat heaters to function properly.
    • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Dodge Challenger, while a desirable muscle car, can have some notable issues. Engine problems range from relatively minor oil leaks to more serious concerns like valve spring failures in the 6.4L Hemi. The 8-speed automatic transmission can suffer from rough shifting. Electrical glitches, especially with the Uconnect system, are also common. Suspension noise and interior issues (sunroof, seat heaters) add to the list. The severity of these issues varies, and repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the problem. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect any used Challenger before purchasing.

Dodge, Challenger
Dodge Challenger 2016
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