Dodge Challenger Used Buying Guide: Known Issues
Check out our used Dodge Challenger buyer’s guide to learn more about its common customer complaints. We’re here to help you avoid unnecessary headaches down the road!
Key Takeaways
- The most common Challenger issues — including a dead alternator — seem to occur more often on older model years, circa 2014 and earlier.
- For the best used buying experience, we recommend checking out 2018-2025 Challengers!
- Unless you plan to take out an extended warranty, you can probably skip the 2011-2013 Challengers.
- Dodge’s warranty is transferrable, so any remaining coverage will transfer to your used model!
- At our Florida locations, we sell only the best Challengers available to us.
Used Challenger Problems
Electrical problems account for a lot of pre-owned Challenger issues. These muscle cars have a few control modules that have become pretty notorious over the years. The Challenger’s alternator has also been known to fail, so that’s something to consider when you’re shopping for an extended warranty!
Most Common Customer Complaints
- Dead alternator: Drivers of 2011-2013 Challengers have had to replace the alternator more than most, making it one of the most common issues for the muscle car.
- Bad TIPM: When the Totally Integrated Power Model fails, a lot of the Challenger’s functionality dies along with it. Symptoms include stalling, inability to start, random horn noise, and failed or overactive airbags. This electrical issue is unusually common for the 2013 Challenger, but it’s not unheard of in other models equipped with the TIPM (2008-2021).
- Bad WINN module: If you can’t start your Challenger — or worse, it fails while driving — it might be due to a faulty Wireless Ignition Node module. You’ll find this infamous module on 2008-2014 models.
Dodge Challenger Model Years
The Best Dodge Challenger Model Years
The 2018-2025 Dodge Challengers have racked up far fewer complaints than their predecessors. If you’re looking for the most reliable muscle car, start with these model years. According to Kelley Blue Book, a 2019 Challenger with mileage between 72,000 and 84,000 has a low risk of needing any major repairs!
The Worst Dodge Challenger Model Years
Compared to other model years, the 2012 Dodge Challenger has racked up the most complaints. Its most common issue is a failed alternator. In fact, this has been a common problem with 2011-2013 models. The problem seems to rear its ugly head around 50,000 miles. Some drivers of these model years have also noted that their smart windows/door latch killed the battery, forcing them to replace both the latch and the battery.
Warranty Coverage
Good news! Dodge’s warranty is transferrable to the next driver, so you can use whatever is left of your used Challenger’s coverage. For used models that don’t qualify, you can always add an extended warranty to your purchase. This provides extra peace of mind, especially if you’re choosing an older version of Dodge’s iconic muscle car. We also recommend plugging your model’s VIN into the NHTSA’s recall lookup tool to verify that your model has had all of its necessary repairs.
Dodge Warranty Coverage
- Basic limited warranty coverage: 3 years/36,000 miles
- Powertrain limited warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
- Outer-panel corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited mileage
Our Dodge Challenger Inventory
At Alan Jay, we only sell the best used Dodge Challenger models! Before we decide whether to sell a model at our dealership, our experienced mechanics perform a used Challenger inspection to make sure it’s up to snuff. That’s why you can count on our inventory for a reliable ride. Visit us to experience these muscle cars in person!
Why People Buy from Alan Jay
100% Transparent Pricing
Buying a car should feel exciting and straightforward, not stressful. At Alan Jay, we do things The Alan Jay Way: no gimmicks, no hidden fees, and no last-minute add-ons that change the deal at the table. Browse inventory with confidence: the prices listed on our website are aligned with what you'll see at the store. No bait-and-switch, just consistent, transparent numbers.
No Addendum Stickers
Many dealers add a second window sticker that sets the price well above MSRP. At Alan Jay, we do not. The price you see online is the same price you'll find on the lot.
No Add-Ons
At Alan Jay, you won't be forced into overpriced extras like fabric protection, paint sealants, or accessory bundles. We'll show you the options, you choose what to add and what you'll pass on, and we clearly show how each affects your price.
No Hidden Fees
Other stores may reveal new charges at signing for "reconditioning," "administration," and more. At Alan Jay, pricing is transparent from the first quote through the final paperwork.
Transparent Trade Value
At Alan Jay, expect a competitive offer on your trade-in without endless back-and-forth. We're glad to walk through book values and explain how your vehicle's condition and history factor into the number.
Bumper to Bumper Inspection
We thoroughly inspect every vehicle before we sell it on any Alan Jay lot. This inspection includes engine, drivetrain, brakes, tires, suspension, hoses, belts, lights, and all electrical systems. Only vehicles that pass this comprehensive inspection will be put on the lot for sale.
