2018 Dodge Challenger
2018 Dodge Challenger
Overview
The 2018 Dodge Challenger, a popular American muscle car, generally offers a robust and engaging driving experience. While known for its powerful engines and classic styling, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, examining common problems across its various engine and transmission configurations, as well as other key vehicle systems. Understanding these potential weak points can help prospective buyers and current owners make informed decisions regarding maintenance and potential repairs.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking gaskets (e.g., valve cover, oil pan) or seals.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Overheating, visible coolant puddles, sweet smell from engine bay.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty hoses, water pump, or radiator.
- Cost: $300 - $800
5.7L HEMI V8
Lifter/Camshaft Wear
- Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, rough idle, loss of power.
- Solution: Replacement of lifters and potentially camshaft.
- Cost: $1,000 - $2,500
Oil Pressure Issues
- Symptoms: Low oil pressure warning light, engine knocking sounds.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of oil pump or related sensors.
- Cost: $400 - $1,200
6.4L HEMI V8
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 (Hellcat)
Cooling System Overload
- Symptoms: Engine overheating under heavy load, reduced performance.
- Solution: Upgraded cooling components (radiator, intercooler), ensuring proper coolant levels.
- Cost: $500 - $1,500
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (8HP70/8HP90)
Harsh Shifting / Jerking
- Symptoms: Sudden jolts or rough gear changes, delayed engagement.
- Solution: Software updates, transmission fluid flush and fill, or internal component repair/replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $1,500
6-Speed Manual (Tremec TR-6060)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Electrical
Infotainment System
Uconnect Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation errors.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or potential head unit replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $800
Battery Drain
Intermittent Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Dead battery after sitting, electrical components malfunctioning.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw from modules or accessories, battery replacement if faulty.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Exterior
Paint and Body
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Lighting
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Trim and Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
HVAC System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2018 Dodge Challenger, particularly with its V6 and standard V8 engines, demonstrates good overall reliability. The most frequently cited issues tend to be related to the automatic transmission’s shifting behavior and potential oil or coolant leaks from the V6 engine. Higher-performance V8 models, while generally robust, can be more susceptible to issues related to their power output, such as cooling system demands. Electrical gremlins, primarily with the Uconnect infotainment system, are also noted. However, many of these issues are manageable with timely maintenance and diagnostics. The manual transmission and suspension systems are typically very reliable. Owners should be aware of potential oil leaks on the 3.6L and the possibility of lifter wear on the 5.7L HEMI.