Dodge Charger problems
The Dodge Charger is a model of automobile marketed by Dodge in various forms over eight generations since 1966.
The first Charger was a show car in 1964. A 1965 Charger II concept car resembled the 1966 production version.
In the United States, the Charger nameplate has been used on mid-size cars, personal luxury coupes, subcompact hatchbacks, and full-size sedans.
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Dodge Charger model years
Common Dodge Charger problems
The Dodge Charger is a popular car known for its performance and style. However, like any vehicle, it can have its share of problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by Dodge Charger owners:
- Window Failure: Window failure is another common problem reported by Dodge Charger owners. The windows may not go up or down properly, or they may stop working altogether. This is often due to a cable failure in the window regulator or a failed motor.
- Check Engine Light due to Failed Thermostat: A failed thermostat can cause the check engine light to come on in the Dodge Charger. The thermostat keeps the engine from overheating by controlling how much coolant flows through the engine block. If it fails, overheating can occur, causing damage to other parts of the car.
- Wiring Electrical Issues: Electrical issues are common in Dodge Chargers due to worn-out wiring harnesses. The wiring harnesses can wear out over time due to stress or corrosion on the wires themselves, causing them to break down and fail.
- Noises When Turning: Squeaking while turning is a common problem in Dodge Chargers. This problem occurs when making a sharp turn and hearing a squeaking sound coming from the car's steering rack. The cause is typically due to worn parts or loose bolts on the vehicle's steering rack or suspension system.
- Musty Odor in AC System: A musty odor in the AC system is also common among Dodge Chargers. The most common cause of this problem is a clogged cabin air filter, which can be easily fixed by removing it and cleaning it with soap and water before reinstalling it back into place.
- Difficulty Filling the Fuel Tank: One of the most common Dodge Charger issues reported by actual owners is difficulty filling the fuel tank. The problem stems from a faulty gas emissions sensor when trying to fill up the tank. To resolve this, replace the gas emissions sensor with one that fits correctly.
- Leaks from Differentials and Axles: Leaks from differentials and axles are common problems reported by actual owners of this vehicle. Rear differential and axle seals are prone to leaks due to wear and tear over time. This can cause fluid loss in certain areas of the vehicle's drivetrain system.
- Automatic Transmission Leaks: One of the most common problems with automatic transmissions is leaks from the electrical connector. This can cause fluid loss and damage to the transmission.
- Power Window Failure: Many Dodge Charger owners have reported that one or more of their power windows have become inoperative. This problem is often caused by a failure of the window motor or a broken cable in the regulator mechanism. To fix this problem, the window motor and regulator may need to be replaced as an assembly.
It's important to note that not all Dodge Chargers will experience these problems, and many owners have reported having trouble-free vehicles. However, being aware of these common issues can help potential buyers make informed decisions when purchasing a used Dodge Charger.
Is a Dodge Charger a reliable car?
Impressive Reliability Scores
Recent models of the Dodge Charger, specifically the 2022, 2021, and 2020 versions, have received outstanding reliability reviews, with a score of 89/100 according to J.D. Power's Quality and Reliability ratings.
What is the main problem with Dodge Charger?
Premature engine failure is the most severe problem the Dodge Charger tends to have and one of the most common in the Dodge Charger model years to avoid. These vehicles are built to have much power, but that doesn't explain or excuse the premature engine failures.
What is the best year for a Dodge Charger?
Specifically, 2020 is one of the best Dodge Charger model years because it introduced the highest-performance version of the Charger: the Dodge Charger Hellcat Redeye. This year also followed in the footsteps of 2019's top-rated reliability.
What mileage do Chargers start having problems?
However, the general feedback regarding the Charger's lifespan seems to be between 150,000 to 250,000 miles.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Charger years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Charger cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Charger model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Charger model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Charger years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Charger car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Charger , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Charger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Charger model years
A total of 234 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Charger model years
There were a total of 218 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Charger model years
There were a total of 209 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Charger model years
There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 5562 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Charger . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Charger vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Charger 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 2C3CDXHG4KH
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I own a 2019 Dodge Charger, and it has an open recall for the airbag inflator, which poses a serious safety risk. Despite the recall being issued over six months ago, replacement parts are still unavailable. Due to this safety concern, I am unable to drive my vehicle far from home, significantly impacting my usage. Additionally, I used to rent this vehicle on Turo to generate income, but it has been delisted from the platform because of the unresolved recall. I am still responsible for monthly loan payments of $420 and insurance payments of over $400 every month which is causing me financial loss without the ability to safely operate or rent out my car. I have contacted dealerships multiple times, but the parts continue to be delayed with no estimated resolution.
Dodge Charger 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 2C3CDXCT1KH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Dodge Charger. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V198000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Dodge Charger 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 2C3CDXBGXKH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Dodge Charger. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V198000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Dodge Charger 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 2C3CDXMG9LH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Dodge Charger. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V198000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Dodge Charger 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 2C3CDXBG0KH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Dodge Charger. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V198000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Dodge Charger 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 2C3CDXJG8FH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I also have a drive shaft bearing that is completely destroyed. I have seen similar complaints on nhtsa. I took my car into a local shop for both front CV boots ripped and leaking. Upon inspection I was told the drive shaft also needed replaced, totaling over 3000+ to replace the drive shaft. The mechanic took a video of the bearing and it is indeed completely separated with the drive shaft moving very loose. With how may people are complaining about this part, and the recalls on drive shafts for certain vehicles, (unfortunately not this VIN) that it should be investigated. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Dodge Charger 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2C3CDXHG9JH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Unknown . Nothing appeared and there was no warning. Should I have been warned? There was no warnings or anything to prevent me from crashing except to make the best decision possible and crash into a less dangerous position.
Dodge Charger 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 2C3CDXCT6KH
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Gas smells in vehicle recall no remedy vehicle smells unsafe. Health hazard concerns
Dodge Charger 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 2C3CDXBGXMH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Dodge Charger. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V198000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and a case was opened. The contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Dodge Charger 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: 2C3CDXBG8LH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Dodge Charger. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and the failure was linked to a recall; however, the contact was informed that parts were unavailable. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V198000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Dodge Charger 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 2C3CDXBG0JH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: My safety & the safety of others was at great risk while driving my 2018 dodge charger sxt. While driving my dashboard lights went completely dark and the steering wheel locked. I was unable to move out of lanes threatening my life and the life of others around me. Independent mechanic put scanner in my car days later and code that appeared was “U0100 Lost Communication With ECM/PCM” I looked up my vin # on mopar.com and noticed my vehicle did have a “Important Safety Recall: Reprogram Powertrain Control Modulel”
Dodge Charger 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 2C3CDXBG0FH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: My vehicle is unsafe to drive and is bad for my health and I am not going to drive this vehicle anymore I am blessed that I passed out at McDonald's drive though and not driving with my kids and passed out due to carbondoxide coming though the air conditioner and this should be reported immediately because I am having bad headaches a week later
Dodge Charger 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 2C3CDXHG3EH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My ABS, BRAKE & ESC lights all came on at the same time on my dash. Took my car to a reputable mechanic and they told me that my abs module needed to be replaced but they were no longer available. So now I have to drive my car and worry about my brakes locking up if I have to come to a sudden stop for some reason since the anti-lock brakes are not working.
Dodge Charger 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- VIN: 2C3CDXAT3GH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Loud noise coming from where the center console should be. I thought it could be something wrapped around the drive shaft but instead the drive shaft carrier bearing needs replaced. You can't get a shop to buy just the part they have to replace the entire piece!
Dodge Charger 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: 2C3CDXHG2JH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The Uconnect screen in my 2018 Dodge Charger SXT Plus began to delaminate, leading to unresponsiveness and phantom touches on the screen. This created a distraction while driving and impacted the use of essential vehicle controls, such as navigation, climate settings, and the backup camera was completely non-functioning. At the dealer I was initially quoted a price over $2,000 and I know from researching the internet many many many others have had this issue. I contacted both Chrysler and a local dealership. The dealership at my 2nd visit replaced the screen for free under a goodwill repair, and Chrysler also contacted me later promised to get the issue resolved if the dealership could not help me. I am reporting this issue because it is a significant defect that could affect the safety and functionality of the vehicle.
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Charger
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 113 recalls for different components of the Dodge Charger.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Charger 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-14
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace both side curtain air bags, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 19, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated March 2025. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 19B.
- Model: Dodge Charger 2018
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-14
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace both side curtain air bags, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 19, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated March 2025. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 19B.
- Model: Dodge Charger 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-14
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace both side curtain air bags, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 19, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated March 2025. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 19B.
- Model: Dodge Charger 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-14
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace both side curtain air bags, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed April 19, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated March 2025. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 19B.
- Model: Dodge Charger 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-11-23
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:COLUMN SHIFT ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Charger and Durango vehicles. The shifter assembly was not properly heat-treated, which can prevent the shifter from properly engaging in the "drive" position.
- Consequence: An improperly engaged shifter assembly may slip out of the "drive" position, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the shifter assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall ZB3.
Latest negative Dodge Charger car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Charger car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2007
If you own or plan to purchase a SRT8 or a similar vehicle, it's important to prioritize Performance & Styling. Gas mileage, comfort, and reliability should not be the primary concerns for sports cars, especially Muscle Cars, which are a unique breed. These cars are specialty built and stand alone in their class. The Charger SRT8 is a perfect example of Dodge's vision for a cool, fast, and exhilarating car that turns heads. The V8 engine produces a balanced and perfect sound that is sure to impress. Overall, I highly recommend this car to anyone in the market for a thrilling ride.
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Vehicle year: 2015
I owned a 2006 Dodge Charger and absolutely loved it. During my time with the car, I unfortunately experienced three serious accidents where I was hit by other drivers. Despite this, I was able to walk away from each accident unscathed, and my Charger kept on going. In the fourth accident, my 18-year-old son and his three friends were hit by a drunk driver on the passenger side, and the car was completely totaled. However, I was relieved to find out that my son and his friends were all uninjured. When I received the insurance money, it was clear that the only logical choice was to purchase another Charger. I was pleasantly surprised by the appraisal value of my 2006 Charger. My 2015 Charger is a beautiful car that turns heads, and it's fast and everything a Charger should be. However, what's most important to me is that this car has saved us many times. When my son was hit by the drunk driver, the responding officer was amazed that no one was injured. I'm grateful that American companies still care about the safety of their customers. I'm a Charger fan for life!
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Vehicle year: 2010
I spent months researching and test driving different car models, and I am absolutely thrilled with my choice of the 'CHARGER'. So far, it has exceeded all of my expectations. While I am not a drag racer, I do know a thing or two about cars, and the 3.5 V-6 HIGH-OUTPUT is perfect for me. Overall, this car is the perfect fit for my needs. I am confident that my kids will love it too, and I feel good knowing that they will be safe in it. Although I was initially hesitant about the rear wheel drive, I have found that as long as I respect the vehicle, it will take care of me. I truly feel like I have found my soulmate in this car.
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Vehicle year: 2020
Congratulations on your recent purchase of a used 2019 Charger GT! It sounds like you got a great deal at $24,000, especially considering that others were going for $28,000 with the same options. While the GT may not be as quick as the RT, it certainly has its advantages, such as better fuel efficiency and cheaper insurance. I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the way it handles and that there are plenty of performance upgrades available for it. If anyone is in the market for a new car, I highly recommend giving the GT a look. You won't be disappointed!
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Vehicle year: 2009
I told my wife that I wanted a car that could go over 300mph and had four doors. I thought I had found that in my R/T, but then I test drove the SRT8. After that, I told my wife that I wanted a car that could go over 400mph and still had four doors. This car is truly amazing. It cradles the driver and even though I'm still breaking it in, I've already gone up to 120mph with no effort. The power is incredible. Just starting the car lets you know that it means business. The rumble sounds so nice that I'm thinking about leaving the exhaust alone. If it were any louder, the neighbors might complain. I knew that the gas mileage wasn't great when I bought it, but after driving it, I stopped caring.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Charger?
Ethel Toy 2025-10-14
Vehicle year: 2007
I was really excited to get this car when it first came out, especially since I had to sell my 72 Cutlass. Unfortunately, I could only afford the base model which has a 2.7 motor that is good on gas but lacks power. After a year, I had to replace the transmission and the engine started to tick. I took it to a dealer in Manassas at least four times, but they couldn't find the problem until after my warranty expired. This was frustrating because I was told I had a Lifetime warranty, but it turned out to be only a 36,000 mile warranty. Now, I ride around town with my music up loud to block out the ticking lifters, which I have to pay $1200 to get fixed.
Wyman Beier 2025-10-07
Vehicle year: 2012
I owned a 2012 Charger R/T Max for 17 months before selling it. While driving in traffic, I found that the 4-6-8 cylinder system conflicted with the transmission. The car would frequently switch back to 4 cylinder mode, which reduced my low end torque by half, caused downshifting, and then the other cylinders would kick in while the engine raced. It was quite confusing! However, the build quality was generally good, with the exception of the power actuator for the driver's seat, which moved jerkily and had to be replaced. I also had to replace the radio once and the rear channel failed again. At 25,000 miles, I started smelling antifreeze inside the car and discovered that the heater core needed to be replaced. Finally, there was a clunk in the rear end when shifting gears in stop and go traffic. Overall, I found the car to be over-engineered and under-built!!!
Austyn VonRueden 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2008
I like my 08 Charger, but unfortunately it has been broken into too many times. The locking mechanism on these cars is very easy for criminals to manipulate, which is a shame. After it was broken into for the first time in 2012, I stopped leaving things in the car. It's disheartening that my car was broken into again on MLK day.
Keegan Mosciski 2025-09-16
Vehicle year: 2014
My 2014 Dodge Charger RT 100th Anniversary edition is a real head-turner with its deep red color and great styling. It's not just a pretty face though, as it boasts an impressive 400bhp that can be called upon whenever needed. The interior is spacious and high-tech, with heated seats and steering wheel that add a touch of luxury. Despite some electrical issues that I have experienced, such as the radio and headlights turning off unexpectedly, I still have confidence in my Charger's performance. Chrysler is currently investigating the issues and I am confident that they will be resolved soon.
Zane Quitzon 2025-09-14
Vehicle year: 2007
This car is actually pretty good. I read all the reviews and they were spot on. However, I have had some trouble with my rims. Living in Toronto, I have to deal with snow and salt, and unfortunately, my 18-inch chrome 5 upgrades have peeled twice and look terrible. It's really noticeable and even though Chrysler has seen them, they won't do anything about it. They claim it's because of the Canadian weather, but it's frustrating since this car was made in Brampton, Canada. How could they not have anticipated these issues?