2016 Dodge Charger
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2016 Dodge Charger, organized by category and engine/transmission configuration, adhering to your specified format:
The 2016 Dodge Charger is a popular full-size sedan known for its aggressive styling, spacious interior, and powerful engine options. While praised for its performance and presence, it does have some common problem areas owners have reported. Engine options included the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (292-300 hp, 260-264 lb-ft torque), the 5.7L Hemi V8 (370 hp, 395 lb-ft torque), the 6.4L Hemi V8 (485 hp, 475 lb-ft torque), and the supercharged 6.2L Hemi V8 (707 hp, 650 lb-ft torque) found in the Hellcat. Most trims came standard with the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission. Some owners dislike the Charger’s size and weight, which can affect handling, and some also find the interior materials to be somewhat lacking compared to other cars in its price range.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Tick Sound Upon Cold Start-Up
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking or tapping sound emanating from the engine, especially during cold starts. This can be caused by worn valve lifters.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve lifters and potentially the camshaft, depending on the extent of the damage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Filter Housing Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing, resulting in low oil pressure. Often identified by oil accumulation around the housing itself. This is a common issue on Pentastar V6 engines using the plastic housing.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing, preferably with an updated design or an aftermarket aluminum housing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- “Hemi Tick” / Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: A ticking noise, often more pronounced when the engine is warm, potentially caused by broken exhaust manifold bolts.
- Solution: Replacement of the broken exhaust manifold bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold if warped or damaged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage due to AFM lifter collapse.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters, potentially including camshaft replacement. AFM delete kits are also an option.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.4L Hemi V8
- “Hemi Tick” / Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: A ticking noise, often more pronounced when the engine is warm, potentially caused by broken exhaust manifold bolts.
- Solution: Replacement of the broken exhaust manifold bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold if warped or damaged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage due to AFM lifter collapse.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters, potentially including camshaft replacement. AFM delete kits are also an option.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (Hellcat)
- Supercharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of boost pressure, and potential bearing failure within the supercharger unit.
- Solution: Supercharger rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
TorqueFlite 8-Speed Automatic (845RE, 8HP70, etc.)
- Rough or Delayed Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or hesitant shifts, especially between certain gears.
- Solution: Software update/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM), or replacement of valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, particularly during light acceleration.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Creaking or clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Often related to worn sway bar end links or control arm bushings.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn sway bar end links and/or control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Uconnect System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and navigation problems.
- Solution: Software update, Uconnect module replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems such as stalling, failure to start, erratic instrument panel readings, and malfunctioning lights.
- Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lenses.
- Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly, or resealing the existing unit (less reliable).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per headlight
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to heat or overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2016 Dodge Charger can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine problems, particularly those related to the 3.6L V6 and 5.7L/6.4L Hemi V8 lifters, can be expensive to repair. Electrical glitches with the Uconnect system and TIPM are also a concern. Thorough inspection and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended. The severity of the issues ranges from minor electrical quirks to major engine failures, and the costs can vary greatly depending on the specific problem.