1981 Dodge Challenger problems
The Dodge Challenger is the name of three different generations of automobiles produced by American automobile manufacturer Dodge. However, the first use of the Challenger name by Dodge was in 1959 for marketing a "value version" of the full-sized Coronet Silver Challenger.
From model years 1970 to 1974, the first generation Dodge Challenger pony car was built using the Chrysler E platform in hardtop and convertible body styles sharing major components with the Plymouth Barracuda.
The second generation, from model years 1978 to 1983, was a badge engineered Mitsubishi Galant Lambda / Sapporo, a coupe version of an economical compact car.
The third and current generation is a full-size muscle car that was introduced in early 2008 originally as a rival to the evolved fifth generation Ford Mustang and the fifth generation Chevrolet Camaro.
In November 2021, Stellantis announced that 2023 model year would be the final model year for both the LD Dodge Charger and LA Dodge Challenger, as the company will focus its future plans on electric vehicles rather than fossil fuel powered vehicles, due to tougher emissions standards required by the Environmental Protection Agency for the 2023 model year. Challenger production ended on December 22, 2023, and the Brampton, Ontario assembly plant will be re-tooled to assemble an electrified successor.
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Common 1981 Dodge Challenger problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1981 Dodge Challenger, common problems with this car include:
- Fuel Pump Problems: The 1981 Dodge Challenger faced fuel pump issues, with reports of leaks that could pose a fire hazard, leading to recalls for certain model years.
- Rust: Rust was a prevalent issue with the 1981 Dodge Challenger, which is common in cars from the 1970s and older, but particularly notable in this model.
- Performance: The second-generation Dodge Challenger had a smaller engine size compared to its predecessors, resulting in slower acceleration times and reduced power output, deviating from the high-performance expectations associated with muscle cars.
These problems highlight various concerns that owners faced with the 1981 Dodge Challenger, ranging from safety issues like fuel pump leaks to performance-related issues due to the smaller engine size.
Are old challengers reliable?
The Challenger is a reliable car overall, but as with most cars, it has some known issues. If these cars are automatics, they will have the MDS system. These cars have had cam & lifter failures, and there are varying theories with respect to long idle times, lifter quality in certain years, and oil pump volume.
What is a common issue on a Dodge Challenger?
Early third-generation Challengers were plagued by hissing power steering noises so widespread, a technical service bulletin was issued in 2010 to replace power steering return hoses or steering gears. Symptoms ranged from a honk to a groan, generally during low speed maneuvers like parking.
What year was the best Challenger?
Top 5 Dodge Challengers In History
- 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T – Better Late than Never.
- 2008 Dodge Challenger – Reviving the Legend.
- 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack – Naturally Aspirated Beast.
- 2015 Dodge Challenger Hellcat – Supercharging the Legend.
- 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 – World's Quickest Production Car.
What year is the rarest Challenger?
And fan to go out of your way to get a super stock. They come in wide body only and have the same 6.2 liter Supercharged V8 engine. And 8-speed Auto as the red eye adding 10 horsepower to 807.
Are old challengers reliable?
The Challenger is a reliable car overall, but as with most cars, it has some known issues. If these cars are automatics, they will have the MDS system. These cars have had cam & lifter failures, and there are varying theories with respect to long idle times, lifter quality in certain years, and oil pump volume.
What is a common issue on a Dodge Challenger?
Early third-generation Challengers were plagued by hissing power steering noises so widespread, a technical service bulletin was issued in 2010 to replace power steering return hoses or steering gears. Symptoms ranged from a honk to a groan, generally during low speed maneuvers like parking.
Which year Dodge Challenger is best?
The Dodge Challenger is a popular choice for a sports car. We recommend 2008, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, or 2021 selections if you want to make the most out of every penny.
Is a Challenger a good everyday car?
Yes, the Dodge Challenger is an excellent choice for a daily driver. While it's famous for its powerful performance and muscular styling, the Challenger also offers features that make this Dodge near you practical for everyday use.
1981 Dodge Challenger car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Challenger problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1981 Dodge Challenger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1981 Dodge Challenger complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1981 Dodge Challenger.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-06
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR SUSPENSION FALLING APART DUE TO CORRODED STABILIZER. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-06
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: SHOCK ABSORBER MOUNTS BROKE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-06
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DOOR SPEAKER WIRE MALFUNCTIONED.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1981 Dodge Challenger problems:
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Feb 14, 2024 ... 1. Are Dodge Challengers Reliable? · 2. Top Dodge Challenger Problems. 2.1. Electrical Issues Caused by Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM).
Other years of Dodge Challenger
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