2020 Dodge Challenger
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2020 Dodge Challenger, organized by component category and engine/transmission option.
The 2020 Dodge Challenger is a popular muscle car known for its retro styling, powerful engine options, and spacious interior. Engine options include the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (303 hp, 268 lb-ft torque), the 5.7L HEMI V8 (372-375 hp, 400-410 lb-ft torque), the 6.4L HEMI V8 (485 hp, 475 lb-ft torque), and the supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 in various tunes (717-797 hp, 650-707 lb-ft torque). Transmission options include a Tremec TR-6060 6 speed manual or an 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic. Many people love the Challenger for its performance and classic looks, while others dislike its large size and relatively poor fuel economy.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil frequently between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil pressure light illuminating, engine noise, and visible exhaust smoke.
- Solution: The issue may involve faulty piston rings or valve seals. A compression test and leak-down test can help diagnose the cause. Replacement of the affected components is usually required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ (depending on the extent of repairs)
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L HEMI V8
- “Hemi Tick” (Lifter Noise)
- Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise, particularly noticeable at idle or low speeds, coming from the top of the engine. This is often attributed to the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) lifters.
- Solution: Replacing the affected lifters is the common solution. In some cases, the camshaft may also need to be replaced if it has been damaged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.4L HEMI V8
- “Hemi Tick” (Lifter Noise)
- Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise, particularly noticeable at idle or low speeds, coming from the top of the engine. This is often attributed to the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) lifters.
- Solution: Replacing the affected lifters is the common solution. In some cases, the camshaft may also need to be replaced if it has been damaged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8
- Supercharger Belt Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The supercharger belt can experience premature wear or failure, leading to a loss of boost and reduced engine performance. Symptoms include a squealing noise from the engine bay, noticeable power loss, and the check engine light illuminating.
- Solution: Replacing the supercharger belt with a high-quality aftermarket option may improve longevity. Ensure proper belt alignment and tension.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ (depending on belt quality and if other components like pulleys need replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
TorqueFlite 8-Speed Automatic (All Engine Options)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can be more pronounced in cold weather. Hesitation when accelerating or changing gears can also occur.
- Solution: A software update or TCM (Transmission Control Module) re-flash may resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (reflash) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: A clunking or rattling noise coming from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps or uneven surfaces. This can be caused by worn sway bar links, bushings, or shocks.
- Solution: Inspect and replace worn suspension components, such as sway bar links, bushings, and shocks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the components replaced)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Uconnect System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The Uconnect infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
- Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, the Uconnect module may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the vehicle sits for extended periods. This can be due to parasitic draw from various electrical components.
- Solution: Identify the source of the parasitic draw and address the issue. This may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Poor Windshield Wiper Performance
- Description/Symptoms: Inadequate windshield clearing during rain or snow. This could be due to wiper blade quality, wiper motor malfunction, or issues with the windshield washer system.
- Solution: Replacing wiper blades with high quality blades. Test and replace wiper motor, and fix the windshield washer system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+ (depending on components replaced)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to heat properly or not working at all. This can be due to a faulty heating element, switch, or wiring issue.
- Solution: Test and replace the seat heating element, switch, or wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on components replaced)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 Dodge Challenger has a mix of potential issues ranging in severity and cost. Engine issues, particularly those related to oil consumption and lifter noise, can be significant and costly to repair. Transmission issues, while not always severe, can be annoying and may require a software update or more extensive repairs. Electrical issues with the Uconnect system are also a common complaint. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase.