2019 Dodge Challenger
Here’s a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints for the 2019 Dodge Challenger, categorized by component.
The 2019 Dodge Challenger is a popular muscle car known for its retro styling, powerful engine options, and comfortable ride. Engine choices include the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (305 hp, 268 lb-ft torque), the 5.7L Hemi V8 (375 hp, 410 lb-ft torque), the 6.4L Hemi V8 (485 hp, 475 lb-ft torque), and the supercharged 6.2L Hemi V8 in various states of tune (717-797 hp, 650-707 lb-ft torque). Transmission options include a six-speed manual (available on some V8 models) and an eight-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the Challenger’s aggressive looks, spacious interior, and strong acceleration. Common complaints include relatively poor fuel economy (especially with the V8s), large size making it difficult to maneuver, and some concerns about reliability.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased performance, check engine light illumination, specific trouble codes related to misfires.
- Solution: Diagnosing the cause of the misfire with a scanner and a mechanic. Replacing faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the component(s) replaced)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level, smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Identifying and replacing leaking valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, or other seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- “Hemi Tick”
- Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping sound coming from the engine, usually most noticeable at idle.
- Solution: It is caused by the design of the lifters. Some owners try using heavier weight oils, while others opt to replace the lifters.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the component(s) replaced)
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially upon cold start, exhaust leak smell, decreased fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacing the broken exhaust manifold bolts and gaskets. Sometimes the manifold itself may need replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.4L Hemi V8
- Piston Ring Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, decreased performance, spark plug fouling.
- Solution: Replacing the piston rings. This is a major repair that may require engine removal and disassembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $6000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Spring Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, decreased performance, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacing the valve springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8
- Supercharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the supercharger, decreased boost, reduced performance, check engine light.
- Solution: Inspecting and potentially replacing the supercharger bearings, coupler, or entire supercharger unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $8000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (All Engines Except Manual V8s)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts, delays in shifting, transmission slipping, especially between certain gears.
- Solution: Software update. If the problem persists, transmission fluid flush, valve body replacement, or complete transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+ (depending on severity and repair)
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Manual (5.7L and 6.4L Hemi V8)
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
- Solution: Inspect and replace worn sway bar links, bushings, or shocks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Uconnect System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation issues.
- Solution: Software updates, resetting the Uconnect system, replacing the Uconnect module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software updates) - $1000+ (for module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a short period of time.
- Solution: Identifying and fixing the source of the parasitic draw. It could be caused by a faulty module, aftermarket accessory, or wiring issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Light bar failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some or all of the lights on the rear light bar do not turn on.
- Solution: Replacing the light bar.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Paint Quality Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Orange peel effect, thin paint, easily scratched paint.
- Solution: Professional paint correction and detailing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Ripping, tearing, stitching coming undone.
- Solution: Repairing the seat or replacing the upholstery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
- Solution: Replacing the dashboard or installing a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Dodge Challenger, while desirable for its performance and styling, has some common issues. Engine problems can range from relatively minor (misfires, Hemi tick) to more serious (piston ring failure, supercharger issues). Transmission issues primarily revolve around the 8-speed automatic’s shifting performance. Electrical gremlins, Uconnect problems, and suspension noises also surface frequently. The severity and cost of repairs vary widely depending on the specific issue, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problem areas.