2016 Dodge Charger
2016 Dodge Charger
Overview
The 2016 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan known for its powerful engine options and rear-wheel-drive platform, offering a blend of performance and practicality. Reliability for this model year is generally considered average, with some specific powertrain configurations and electronic components being more prone to issues than others. Owners often report satisfaction with the vehicle’s driving dynamics and comfort, but potential buyers should be aware of common complaints related to the infotainment system and certain engine-related problems, particularly with higher mileage examples. Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity of its various engine and transmission choices.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
Intake Manifold Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, rough idle.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Oil Cooler Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant loss, oil in coolant, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and gasket.
- Cost: $500 - $800
5.7L HEMI V8
Lifter/Camshaft Wear
- Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of lifters, camshaft, and potentially pushrods.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Oil Cooler Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant loss, oil in coolant, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and gasket.
- Cost: $500 - $800
6.4L HEMI V8
Lifter/Camshaft Wear
- Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of lifters, camshaft, and potentially pushrods.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (845RE)
Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush and fill, or transmission rebuild.
- Cost: $300 - $2,500
Torque Converter Issues
- Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping gears, whining noise.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $800 - $1,500
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Infotainment System (Uconnect)
Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system reboots randomly.
- Solution: Software update, or replacement of the Uconnect module.
- Cost: $200 - $1,000
Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections.
- Solution: Software update, or reset of the Uconnect system.
- Cost: $100 - $300
Battery Drain
Parasitic Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting for a short period, electrical components malfunctioning.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of faulty modules or wiring causing the drain.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Materials
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2016 Dodge Charger presents a mixed bag in terms of reliability. While the chassis and exterior components generally hold up well, potential owners should be mindful of issues that can arise with the powertrain and electrical systems. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 can experience intake manifold and oil cooler leaks, while the HEMI V8s are more susceptible to lifter and camshaft wear. The 8-speed automatic transmission may exhibit harsh shifting or torque converter problems. Electrically, the Uconnect infotainment system is a common source of complaints, with screen freezing and connectivity issues being prevalent. Addressing these potential problems proactively through diligent maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate long-term reliability concerns.