2021 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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Common 2021 Dodge Charger problems
The Dodge Charger 2021 is a popular car known for its performance and reliability. However, like any other vehicle, it is not immune to problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by owners of the Dodge Charger 2021, based on complaints and research.
- Window Failure: Another common issue with the Dodge Charger 2021 is window failure. Windows may not go up or down properly, or they may stop working altogether. This is caused by a cable failure in the window regulator or a failed motor. If you notice this issue, it is recommended to take your car to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and fixed.
- Check Engine Light: The Dodge Charger 2021 is also prone to check engine light issues. This is often caused by a failed thermostat, which can cause overheating and damage to other parts of the car. If you notice the check engine light is on, it is recommended to take your car to a mechanic to have the thermostat replaced.
- Wiring Electrical Issues: Electrical issues are another common problem with the Dodge Charger 2021. The wiring harnesses can wear out over time due to stress or corrosion, causing them to break down and fail. If you notice electrical issues, it is recommended to take your car to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and fixed.
- Noises When Turning: The Dodge Charger 2021 is also prone to noises when turning. This is caused by worn parts or loose bolts on the steering rack or suspension system, or a worn-out ball joint. If you notice this issue, it is recommended to take your car to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and fixed.
- Musty Odor in AC System: Another common issue with the Dodge Charger 2021 is a musty odor in the AC system. This is often caused by a clogged cabin air filter, which can be easily fixed by removing it and cleaning it with soap and water before reinstalling it.
- Difficulty Filling Fuel Tank: The Dodge Charger 2021 is also prone to difficulty filling the fuel tank. This is caused by a faulty gas emissions sensor, which can be fixed by replacing the sensor with one that fits correctly.
- Leaks from Differential and Axle: Leaks from differentials and axles are also common with the Dodge Charger 2021. This is caused by worn differential side seals, damaged gaskets, or loose driveshaft bolts. If you notice fluid leaking from these areas, it is recommended to take your car to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and fixed.
- Automatic Transmission Leaking: Another common problem with the Dodge Charger 2021 is leaks from the electrical connector in the automatic transmission. If you notice fluid leaking from this area, it is recommended to take your car to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and fixed.
In conclusion, while the Dodge Charger 2021 is a reliable car, it is not immune to problems. The most common issues reported by owners include transmission shift quality problems, window failure, check engine light, wiring electrical issues, noises when turning, musty odor in AC system, difficulty filling fuel tank, leaks from differential and axle, and automatic transmission leaking. If you notice any of these issues, it is recommended to take your car to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and fixed.
Is the 2021 Dodge Charger reliable?
The 2021 Dodge Charger has a predicted reliability score of 89 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Chargers?
Transmission issues have plagued Charger owners for years. Numerous people have complained about gear slippage, intermittent hard shifting, and decreased acceleration. In a few instances, the Charger reportedly switched gears on its own.
Why is Dodge killing the Charger?
Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis has announced that the current versions of the Charger and Challenger will be their last, at least for the foreseeable future. Production officially ended in December 2023 due to the parent company's transition to cleaner and more efficient electric vehicles (EVs).
Are Dodge Chargers high maintenance?
The average maintenance cost of a Dodge Charger is $652 per year. This amount is lower than the industry average maintenance costs for vehicles, which is $792 annually. This popular vehicle also has an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, which is an above-average score.
Is 2021 Dodge Charger reliable?
The 2021 Dodge Charger has a predicted reliability score of 89 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Chargers?
Transmission issues have plagued Charger owners for years. Numerous people have complained about gear slippage, intermittent hard shifting, and decreased acceleration. In a few instances, the Charger reportedly switched gears on its own.
Why is Dodge killing the Charger?
Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis has announced that the current versions of the Charger and Challenger will be their last, at least for the foreseeable future. Production officially ended in December 2023 due to the parent company's transition to cleaner and more efficient electric vehicles (EVs).
How long will a 2021 Dodge Charger last?
In general, it's practically impossible to predict just how long do Dodge Chargers last. This is mainly because there are so many factors that come into play. However, the general feedback regarding the Charger's lifespan seems to be between 150,000 to 250,000 miles.
2021 Dodge Charger car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Charger problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Wheels problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Dodge Charger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2021 Dodge Charger complaints
The NHTSA has received 19 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Dodge Charger.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-14
- 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.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- VIN: 2C3CDXHG9MH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Dodge Charger. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 60 MPH, the engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the sixth gear was inoperable. The independent mechanic called an unknown local dealer, who informed him that the repair parts were on backorder. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-02
- VIN: 2C3CDXGJXMH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: During a recent tire change, I observed that the plastic cover beneath the engine had become dislodged, and several clips were broken. Additionally, a large round component had detached and fallen out. Following consultation with fellow Dodge Charger Scat Pack owners on social media, it appears that this issue is not an isolated incident and raises concerns about the reliability of the engine's internal components. As such, I believe it is crucial for the manufacturer to investigate and address this problem promptly.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-06
- VIN: 2C3CDXBG5MH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag recalled since March 2024, & no Dodge dealer in the Charlotte or surrounding areas has a remedy available. This is extremely dangerous and I have my child with me. I need to get this recall fixed ASAP! This is a danger and my only form of transportation.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-14
- VIN: 2C3CDXCT6MH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: A SABIC inflator rupture may result in compressed gas rapidly escaping from the inflator and material potentially being propelled into the vehicle.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-14
- VIN: 2C3CDXCT7MH
- 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 confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
- VIN: 2C3CDXCT1MH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Notification or recall came out in March. Notified by mail end of April. It is now mid June and still there is no remedy available for this open recall. For drivers where this is their sole car, it is concerning and unfair that we continue to drive with this recall and possibly risk injury. I understand the process might take a while but having no communication on when parts are to be available from the manufacturer is upsetting.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: 2C3CDXBG7MH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: There is an open recall for curtain side airbag with no remedy available. In April 2024, vehicle displayed service airbag system. vehicle was taken to dealership and the issue was the passenger seat harness airbag. Dealership states it is a warranty issue and I had to pay a deductible. With the no remedy on the recall and the other issue I had, Dodge Chargers are having issues with the airbags.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-13
- VIN: 2C3BDXBG1MH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Dodge Charger. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH and making a left turn, the power steering failed to operate properly, causing the steering wheel to become difficult to turn in either direction. The contact stated that the "Electric Power Steering Failure" message was displayed after the failure. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 53,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 2C3CDXGJXMH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My passenger air bag is falling it says passenger frontal squib 2 control circuit open it also says check air bag system on the dashboard of the car the car was in an accident it has a branded title but when they fix the cars don't they have to make sure the airbags are safe and the vehicle is safe to operate the car is financed and I am paying for it and my 3rd party warranty does not cover air bag system and this does put my wife at risk when I'm driving and she's on the passenger seat and this is an expensive fix and right now I am not financially stable to fix an air bag but I want to get it fix because safety is very important.
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2C3CDXGJ9MH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,WHEELS
- Summary: Driving home from work when my vehicle lost control, when trying to steer my steering wheel straight the rear end of my vehicle locked up and ended up in a guard rail , there was nothing in the road or any pedestrian or other cars I have no idea what caused my car to lock up but I don’t know what caused my car to lock up I know when my sales guys first go over my car he didn’t fully mention everything to me I saw my tires pressure at 50 psi in all days didn’t know if that was normal because my car was shipped so I know the dealership is suppose to inspect vehicle to make sure everything is correct to manufacturer specs when vehicle was towed to certificate shop for body and mechanic repairs car sat there 8 months plus when I got the car it was not driving the same and reading a message on the screen service sifter unavailable ever since then my vehicle is unsafe to drive my car now locks up when I do a turn like it get stuck in a gear and when cruising vehicle chocks/hesitated to drive like it was to get stuck in a lock mode . I took it to 2 dodge dealers more then 3 times and can’t duplicate concern and throwing random parts at my car and I’m telling them it’s not the problem also they gave me poor customer service and wish I never bought a car from them .
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- VIN: 2C3CDXHG5MH
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I had a flat tire on the left rear. I pulled the car onto a flat paved surface, placed it in park, and applied the parking brake. I broke the lug nuts loose and proceeded to jack the car up. When I had the car partially jacked up the scissor jack kicked out from under the car into the area I had parked in. Since I no longer felt safe using the jack I called AAA. Oddly enough, the AAA service man told me that he had just returned from a call on a Chrysler 300 that had done the same thing. I no longer feel safe using that jack.
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-28
- VIN: 2C3CDXGJ7MH
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Heard popping under car while driving noticed there appeared to be an issue with rear control arm removed rear tires and found both rear control arms to be broken and rubbing frame one free hanging and the other in a bind
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-04
- VIN: 2C3CDXHG5MH
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: My rim on the inside lip has a hairline crack. I’m coming up on 1 year and for the entire time I have had to add air once a month. The tire pressure would be 38 psi when I put air and would drop to 30 over a months time. I’ve had the tire looked at several times and they found nothing. Then around 3 weeks ago it went from loosing 8 psi a month, to around 5 psi a week. So I jack the car up and start looking, spraying with a soapy water and I find the crack.So I called the dealership, and they say well you hit a pothole or something in the road. No I did not, I’ve never hit anything. If I did the rim would be bent or have scuff marks, which theirs not. So I do research and find out I’m not alone. As of now January 16, 2023 I’m loosing 15-20 psi a day. Thank you
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-02
- VIN: 2C3CDXCT1MH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The issue with the vehicle is inconsistent and delayed power delivery. On numerous occasions, when trying to accelerate quickly in low gears (1 through 3), the vehicle exhibits an obvious restriction and/or lack of thrust. The vehicle does accelerate (sometimes poorly with hesitation) and the RPM's climb, but the power is severely reduced until 4500 RPM, then the power comes on strong without any change in throttle position or gear. The issue can best be described as feeling like you are towing something heavy with a rope, and at 4500 rpm, the rope breaks and the resistance is lifted. I have had it to multiple dealers, I have reproduced it, but both ran full analysis and it is "performing as designed". Both me and the dealer contacted the manufacturer and was told if there are no diagnostic errors, it is fine. There is no code or message. I have found at least 10 other owners of various vehicle models from Chrysler with the same engine and transmission combo that have the same issue. The 5.7 Litre HEMI V8 and the ZF8HP70 8 speed automatic transmission. There is no way to know it is going to happen. One minute it accelerates normally, the next it doesn't. It does not pose imminent danger, but it has put me in a precarious position more than once when entering a highway or pulling out into traffic and not knowing how much acceleration power I am going to have. It reduces confidence in the vehicle because of the inconsistency. The issue did not start occurring until the vehicle reached approx. 2100 miles. I also owned a 2020 version of the car that did the same thing after approx. 4000 miles. I traded it in on the 2021 because I thought there was no way they all ran this way, but apparently they do.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-15
- VIN: 2C3CDXBGXMH
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Dodge Charger. The contact stated while driving 60-65 MPH, a tiny rock hit the windshield and the windshield cracked. The vehicle was repaired by Safelite at the contact's residence. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, a truck spun out and gravel fell from the truck causing a tiny rock to hit the driver’s side windshield and caused a crack. The windshield was repaired by Safelite at the contact's residence; however, the failure reoccurred while driving. The contact stated that the failure occurred three times within three months. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V516000 (Visibility) however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-20
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2C3CDXGJ6MH
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: So this vehicle turned out to be one of the easiest cars to be stolen. I’ve heard many stories and cases about other Dodge Charger owners that have gotten there Chargers stolen as well and I received a recall notice from dodge this week that it’s something about the radio frequency and something about a simple diagnostic tool and it programs a new key instantly and Dodge finally after so many complaints did there research and now put out a recall. My dream car was stolen, crashed and even my insurance company won’t compensate anything and now my vehicle has on its carfax that it was stolen and involved in an accident and the value is now destroyed. I tried getting a selling price thru Carvana and Vroom, well Carvana declined it due to that and Vroom gave me a price value of $30,000 and I bought it for $60,000. Half the value is gone due to a manufacturing issue that made these vehicles so easy to steal and be in the hands of anybody and everybody that doesn’t own it. It was used and abused on my dime and now I have to eat the loss.
LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-21
- VIN: 2C3CDXCT4MH
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The rear camera is defective. It is too dark in most conditions and not clear resulting in a poor view of what is behind me. At night, it is impossible to use, and relying on it will result in a collision. Stellantis and the local dealer have been provided with photos of the display and the dealer spent a few seconds looking at it and they say it is how it should be. Other owners of the same type car online have the same complaint and had the camera changed. Stellantis refuses to do so. Photos have been uploaded showing the problem.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-22
- VIN: 2C3CDXHG0MH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: AT ONLY 256 MILES, THE VEHICLE EITHER SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING OR WILL NOT START AFTER IT'S PARKED. THE FIRST OCCURRENCE OF THE ENGINE TURNING OFF WAS WHILE I WAS DRIVING. THE VEHICLE APPEARED TO STALL. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS THE VEHICLE RESTARTED. THERE HAS SINCE BEEN 3 NO START CONDITIONS AFTER THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN PARKED. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY AT DAVIS CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE RAM IN YULEE, FL AWAITING DIAGNOSTICS AND REPAIR OF THIS INTERMITTENT FAULT.
2021 Dodge Charger recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2021 Dodge Charger.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."
- Consequence: A windshield that separates from the vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will remove and replace the front windshield urethane sealant, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 31, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y47.
Negative 2021 Dodge Charger car reviews
Positive 2021 Dodge Charger car reviews
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Very aggressive. Strong and powerful engine...yet offers a very smooth driving experience.
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This is the most comfortable, fastest, great handling, cool looking sedan ever.
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I've owned four Dodge Chargers - a 2006, 2014, 2015, and now a 2019 and 2020. My wife also has one now. In my experience, the Scat Pack models offer the best value for money. I've owned two of them and have been very pleased with their performance. My wife has an SXT and absolutely loves it. While I could have purchased a Hellcat for myself, it's not practical for daily driving and the insurance costs are exorbitant, even at my age. Dodge Chargers are easy to drive and have great visibility. I used to be a Chevy guy and owned a Camaro, but I wouldn't go back to Chevy or Ford. I now have two old-school Mustangs.
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The Scat Pack has plenty of power for street driving, and it's an absolute blast! While it can be a bit noisy and stiff on long drives, I still gave it 4 stars (more like 4.5 stars).
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I can understand that having the battery in the trunk might be a bit difficult.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Dodge Charger problems:
2021 Dodge Charger Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Dodge Charger? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
What are the Most Frequent Dodge Charger Problems? - Municibid ...
Mar 7, 2023 ... Transmission issues have plagued Charger owners for years. Numerous people have complained about gear slippage, intermittent hard shifting, and ...
How reliable has your Charger been for you? : r/Charger
Sep 8, 2023 ... Few known issues tho: Hemi tick. Electronic issues like the reverse camera not aging good. Interior made with plastic so stuff might break ...
Dodge Charger scat pack 2021 motor has weird vibration at idle ...
Aug 5, 2022 ... I have encountered situations before -- fortunately not with any of my cars -- in which the engine is suspected of having a problem. The factory ...
Charger Reliability | Charger Forums
Nov 19, 2020 ... Over a year, and 11K. I dumped GM and went to my first Dodge after researching reliability. I have NO concerns about anything.
Other years of Dodge Charger
Are you having problems with your 2021 Dodge Charger?
Kirk Roberts 2024-05-10
The car has a low entrance headroom and uncomfortable seats during long trips. Left/RIGHT visibility is limited, but it has a great body style. The car handles wonderfully on curves. Due to rear wheel drive, the driveshaft hump seriously restricts rear seat passengers' legroom. However, it is important to note that the car may not be suitable for everyone. Overall, it is a decent car with some limitations. If you decide to buy one, I wish you the best!
Colt Weissnat 2024-05-08
The vehicle became completely undrivable in less than six months. Despite Dodge's initial claim that a mouse had chewed it, the issue was covered under warranty.