The 2016 Dodge Charger is generally dependable, but owners report a handful of recurring issues that buyers should be aware of, especially with higher mileage. The most common concerns center on the transmission, electrical systems, and climate controls, with engine symptoms sometimes tied to maintenance needs.
Below is a detailed look at the issues most frequently cited by owners and researchers, organized by system. The aim is to summarize what tends to show up in real-world use, not to imply that every car will have these problems. Availability and severity can vary by trim (V6, Hemi V8, or Hellcat) and by maintenance history. Always check the vehicle’s recall and service history for your specific car.
Engine and powertrain issues
Common powertrain concerns tend to revolve around the base 3.6-liter V6 and, to a lesser extent, the V8 options. This section covers symptoms you might notice and their typical causes.
- Engine misfires or rough idle, often linked to ignition coils or spark plugs worn from age and mileage on the 3.6L Pentastar.
- Cam phaser noise or ticking sounds from the engine, especially on higher-mileage examples of the V6, which can indicate wear in the intake timing system.
- Engine hesitation or occasional stumbles during acceleration, sometimes tied to throttle control or mass airflow sensor issues.
- Oil consumption or minor leaks reported on some engines as mileage increases, requiring regular oil level checks and potential service to seals or gaskets.
- Check engine light coming on for misfire codes or sensor faults, sometimes traced to minor electrical or sensor-related issues rather than a major engine fault.
These issues vary in frequency and are often addressed through scheduled maintenance (spark plugs, coils, throttle body cleaning, and software updates). If you notice rough running or fluctuating idle, a professional diagnostic can quickly pinpoint the cause.
Transmission and drivetrain issues
The Charger’s 8-speed automatic and, on some trims, all-wheel-drive configurations can surface shifting and drivetrain concerns. Here’s what owners sometimes report.
- Harsh, delayed, or inconsistent upshifts and downshifts from the 8-speed automatic, particularly when the transmission is cold or after high-mileage use.
- Torque converter shudder or hesitations during light throttle takeoffs, which can feel like a brief bucking sensation.
- Rough engagement or slipping in certain driving conditions, sometimes related to fluid conditions or software updates to the transmission control module.
- AWD drivetrain quirks or noises in all-wheel-drive models, with occasional complaints about perceived binding or vibration under certain loads.
Transmission-related issues are often improved with dealer software updates or transmission-fluid service, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated promptly to prevent further wear.
Electrical and infotainment problems
Electrical systems and the Uconnect infotainment platform have been a frequent source of owner dissatisfaction, ranging from minor glitches to more persistent faults.
- Infotainment touchscreen freezing, rebooting, or slow responsiveness, sometimes accompanied by lag in navigation or Bluetooth pairing.
- Wireless connectivity issues (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration) that can require resets or software updates.
- Instrument cluster flicker or intermittent warning lights, often traced to wiring harnesses, fuses, or module software rather than a critical fault.
- Power window regulators or door lock mechanisms failing or becoming sluggish with age.
Infotainment and electrical problems often improve after a system software update or a targeted repair, but they can be persistent for some cars. If you rely on connectivity features, verify the latest software updates are installed.
HVAC and climate-control issues
Climate control problems are among the more noticeable comfort-related complaints, affecting both heating and cooling performance.
- A/C not cooling adequately or compressor clutch failures, leading to weak or no refrigerant flow in hot weather.
- Inconsistent cabin temperature due to blend door actuator failures or temperature sensor faults, causing unpredictable hot or cold pockets inside the car.
- Heater performance decline in colder climates, sometimes tied to thermostat or heater core issues rather than a simple control setting.
HVAC problems can often be traced to common wear components and may be addressed with part replacements or actuator fixes. Regular checks of refrigerant levels and climate controls help prevent surprises in extreme weather.
Interior and body concerns
Over time, interior materials and exterior finishes may show signs of wear, even on relatively new Chargers. The following issues appear with some vehicles as miles accumulate.
- Interior squeaks, rattles, or trim gaps, especially around doors, dash, or panels, which can emerge in driving over rough roads.
- Leather wear or cracking on seats in higher-mileage examples, coupled with color fading on certain trims.
- Paint and clearcoat wear or chipping in high-abrasion areas or after exposure to harsh conditions, occasionally accelerated on lighter color finishes.
Interior and exterior wear are common across many cars of this era; routine care, protective measures, and timely fixes help preserve appearance and comfort.
What to look for when buying used
If you’re considering a used 2016 Charger, use these checks to gauge potential problems and what to expect in maintenance or repairs.
- Request a full vehicle history report, and check for any open recalls using the VIN.
- Have the transmission tested for smooth shifting and listen for any shuddering, especially on cold starts or low-speed driving.
- Inspect the cooling and HVAC systems, confirming the A/C blows cold and the heater works reliably in both hot and cold conditions.
- Scan for stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to engine, transmission, or electrical systems with a professional scanner.
Because maintenance history varies, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic can identify issues that may not be obvious on a test drive or in a quick inspection.
Summary
The 2016 Charger brings strong performance options and modern features, but owners have reported recurring problems in several key areas, most notably transmission behavior, electrical/infotainment glitches, and HVAC reliability. With careful maintenance, documentation of service history, and proactive diagnostics, many of these issues can be managed or mitigated. For prospective buyers, prioritizing a thorough pre-purchase inspection and checking for prior recalls can help ensure a smoother ownership experience.
Is 2016 a good year for a Dodge Charger?
Reliability. The 2016 Dodge Charger has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 6 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, ranks it #12 out of 13 among Fullsize Cars.
What's the worst year for a Dodge Charger?
Here's a quick list of the Dodge Charger years you should avoid:
- 2006.
- 2007.
- 2008.
- 2011.
- 2012.
- 2014.
What is the life expectancy of a 2016 Dodge Charger?
between 150,000 to 250,000 miles
Longevity and Durability
The lifespan of a Dodge Charger is another testament to its reliability. Generally, Chargers are expected to last between 150,000 to 250,000 miles, a range supported by user experiences shared on forums and automotive communities.
What are the common problems with 2016 chargers?
Top 2016 Dodge Charger Problems
- PCM/TCM Software Updates Will Address Shifting Problems.
- Transmission Shift Quality Issues.
- Check Engine Light Due to Failed Thermostat.
- Cable Failure in Window Regulator or Motor May Cause Power Windows to Become Inoperative.
- Cleaner/Disinfectant Issued to Address Musty Odor in AC System.