The 2016 Charger is commonly reported to experience transmission behavior issues, infotainment glitches, and occasional recall-related safety concerns. The likelihood and severity of problems vary by trim, engine, mileage, and maintenance history.
Below is a detailed look at the most frequently noted trouble spots, what tends to cause them, and practical advice for buyers and owners. The focus is on mechanical reliability, electronics, and safety recalls that have affected this model year.
Common mechanical problems
Transmission and drivetrain concerns
Because the 2016 Charger relies on an 8-speed automatic transmission across most trims, several owner reports center on shifting behavior. Issues can include rough or delayed engagement, occasional shudder between gears, and harsh downshifts. Some cases require software updates, fluid service, or valve-body adjustments; in rare situations, transmission failures have prompted replacements under warranty or recalls.
- Rough or delayed shifting and occasional shudder in the 8-speed automatic transmission
- Harsh downshifts or sensations of a slipping torque converter
- Infrequent but documented transmission failures necessitating repair or replacement
Symptoms often correlate with mileage, maintenance history, and recent software updates. Routine transmission service and keeping software current can mitigate many issues.
Engine performance concerns
While the 3.6L Pentastar and available Hemi engines are generally reliable, some owners report intermittent engine performance problems. These can include misfires, rough idle, or temporarily reduced power, sometimes tied to ignition components, fuel delivery, or sensor faults. Most cases resolve with part replacements or software updates, and problems are typically not constant.
- Occasional misfires or rough idle on higher-mileage units
- Intermittent loss of power or reduced acceleration
- Check-engine light activation due to ignition coil or sensor faults
As with other age- or mileage-related issues, these symptoms benefit from timely maintenance and diagnostic checks to pinpoint the root cause.
Brakes, suspension, and chassis noises
Owners occasionally report brake wear or noises from the suspension. Common items include squeaks, clunks, or vibrations from brake components, bushings, or suspension joints. Addressing wear items or worn components typically resolves these symptoms and helps maintain ride quality and handling.
- Brake wear, rotor warping, or pulsation during stopping
- Suspension noises from bushings, ball joints, or struts
- Exhaust rattles or heat-shield noise as components age
Regular inspections and timely replacements reduce risk and preserve driving feel.
Electrical and infotainment problems
Infotainment and connectivity
The Uconnect infotainment system drives navigation, Bluetooth, and media for many Chargers. Reported issues include the screen freezing or rebooting, slow response, Bluetooth pairing difficulties, and occasional audio dropouts. Software updates or head-unit replacements are common remedies when problems persist.
- Uconnect screen freezing, rebooting, or slow response
- Bluetooth pairing or audio streaming dropouts
- Navigation or radio interface glitches
Keeping the system up to date with dealer software updates can reduce frequency of glitches; in persistent cases, a module replacement may be required.
Display and control glitches
Some 2016 Chargers experience flickering instrument clusters, dim or unresponsive digital displays, or intermittent loss of steering wheel controls. These symptoms often point to wiring, grounding, or controller-module issues and are sometimes resolved through software updates or component replacements.
- Flickering or dim instrument cluster
- Unresponsive or intermittent instrument/display screens
- Intermittent failure of steering wheel controls (audio, seek/track)
Diagnostics may involve checking fuses, grounds, or module software versions to pinpoint the cause.
Other electrical issues
Less frequently reported problems involve power window regulators, door locks, and interior lighting. While not universal, these problems tend to occur more with higher-mileage examples or vehicles that have seen water exposure or prior electrical work.
- Power windows or door locks inconsistently operable
- Window regulators or motors failing
- Interior lighting faults or dimming
Early diagnosis and timely repair help maintain comfort and security features in daily use.
Recalls and service history
Recalls affecting the 2016 Charger
Safety recalls have affected some 2016 Chargers, including campaigns related to airbags and various safety-critical components. To avoid missing required service, owners should check the VIN against the NHTSA recall database and contact a dealership for any needed remedies. Many recalls are performed free of charge.
- Airbag inflator recalls (part of the nationwide Takata-related campaigns) affecting some vehicles in this model year
- Software and electrical recalls addressing Uconnect and engine-control modules
- Fuel-system and emission-related recalls that may apply to certain VIN ranges
Even if a recall has already been completed, confirm that the repair was performed correctly and that related modules have the latest software updates installed.
Service history and maintenance notes
Beyond recalls, the reliability of a used 2016 Charger hinges on documented maintenance. Regular oil changes, transmission and brake service, and software updates help preserve performance. A thorough service history with receipts is a strong indicator of care and lowers risk for future problems.
- Consistent records of oil changes and fluid services
- Documentation of transmission service and software updates
- Recent brake work and suspension component replacements
When shopping used, request complete service records and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the drivetrain, electronics, and known issue areas.
Buying considerations and maintenance tips
For buyers or current owners, awareness of likely trouble spots supports proactive maintenance and better decision-making. The tips below aim to reduce risk and extend the Charger’s useful life.
- Test drive with attention to transmission behavior: smoothness, throttle response, and any shudder
- Evaluate the Uconnect system for responsiveness and ensure essential safety features function
- Check for open recalls and verify completion of recall repairs and related software updates
Staying current with manufacturer recommendations, timely software updates, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection helps mitigate unexpected failures and keeps the 2016 Charger performing as designed.
Summary
The 2016 Dodge Charger presents a mix of mechanical, electrical, and safety-related concerns that vary by trim and usage. Transmission behavior and infotainment glitches rank among the most commonly reported issues, while recall activity highlights the importance of VIN-specific checks. A careful approach to maintenance, recall verification, and test-driving under real-world conditions can help owners manage risk and enjoy the Charger’s performance across its lineup.