A Dodge Charger uses a 12-volt automotive battery. The exact type and size depend on the model year and whether the car is equipped with an automatic start-stop system. In modern Chargers with Start-Stop, an AGM 12-volt battery of the correct footprint is usually required; if Start-Stop isn’t present, a standard flooded 12-volt battery can be used as long as it matches the OEM specifications.
Battery basics for the Charger
A car battery provides 12 volts to start the engine and to power electronics when the engine is off. Cars with Stop-Start technology demand a battery that can withstand frequent cycling and higher current demands, which is typically an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) type rather than a traditional flooded lead-acid battery. When replacing the battery, aim to match or exceed the original cold-cranking amps (CCA) and reserve capacity (RC) while ensuring the battery fits the vehicle's footprint and terminal layout.
Stop-start technology and battery type
What it means for your Dodge Charger
Many newer Chargers use automatic engine stop-start to save fuel. This feature relies on a robust 12-volt battery capable of repeated discharges and quick recharges. If your Charger has Stop-Start, the replacement should be an AGM battery rated to the OEM CCA/RC requirements. If your model does not have Stop-Start, a conventional flooded 12V battery that matches the group size and rating is typically acceptable.
Finding the right battery for your Charger
Before you buy, confirm the exact group size and rating for your model year and engine. Use the following list as a guide to verify compatibility and performance.
- Check the owner's manual or the official service portal for the recommended battery group size and type (AGM vs flooded) for your Charger’s year and engine.
- Inspect the label on your current battery to note the CCA, RC, and group size code, then match or exceed those numbers in a replacement.
- If your Charger has stop-start technology, you'll likely need an AGM 12V battery designed for high-current starts and repeated cycling.
- Ensure the replacement fits physically (footprint, height) and matches the terminal arrangement (positive/negative orientation and any dual-terminal setups).
- Consider climate and usage: in very cold or hot climates, aim for higher CCA and RC to protect performance and longevity.
Bottom line: use the OEM-recommended specifications as the baseline; for stop-start versions insist on an AGM battery with sufficient CCA and RC; for non-stop-start versions a standard flooded 12V battery that matches the group size and rating is acceptable.
What about the classic Chargers?
Older Chargers from the 1960s–1970s used 12-volt batteries as well, but battery sizes, terminals, and mounting differed by year and engine. If you’re restoring a classic, consult period manuals or a classic Mopar technician for the exact specification.
Summary
In short, a Dodge Charger uses a 12-volt automotive battery. The required type (AGM vs flooded) and group size depend on the model year and whether your Charger is equipped with Start-Stop technology. Always refer to the owner's manual or a dealer for the precise OEM specification, and choose a replacement that provides equal or greater CCA, RC, and the same physical fit.