Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2009 Dodge Challenger Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A powerful retro-muscle car with solid mechanicals, but watch out for its Achilles' heel: the electrical system.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2009 Dodge Challenger

  • Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the equipment.
  • Scores roughly in line with adjacent Dodge Challenger years — consistency that often signals a stable platform generation.
  • The system most likely to surface first: totally integrated power module (tipm) (major severity).

Should You Buy the 2009 Dodge Challenger?

The 2009 Dodge Challenger offers a thrilling blend of classic muscle and modern power, but it comes with a few notable caveats. While its core powertrains are robust, owners must be prepared for potential electrical gremlins and accelerated wear on heavy-duty components. This isn't a 'set it and forget it' vehicle, but with diligent maintenance and a keen eye on common trouble spots, it can provide years of driving enjoyment.

Biggest Strengths

  • Robust Hemi V8 and V6 engine options
  • Durable automatic and manual transmissions (NAG1/TR-6060)
  • Strong, retro-inspired chassis design

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2009 Dodge Challenger. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM)major
2
Brake System Componentsmoderate
3
Front Suspension & Steeringmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

EQUIPMENT

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger vehicles, and 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Chrysler is recalling certain 2009-2010 RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Chrysler is also recalling certain 2009 RAM 3500, RAM 2500, RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

What breaks on the 2009 Dodge Challenger?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Dodge Challenger by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Dodge Challenger. Click any year for its full report.

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