Is the 2016 Dodge Charger reliable?

It can be reliable with consistent maintenance, especially when fluids, tires, and suspension wear items are kept up. Most complaints center on typical wear components and electronics rather than widespread engine failures.

What are the most common 2016 Dodge Charger problems?

Common issues include front suspension wear and alignment-related tire wear, Uconnect/infotainment glitches, 3.6L oil cooler housing leaks, and V8 ticking tied to exhaust manifold bolts or valvetrain concerns.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2016 Charger?

Costs are moderate for V6 trims and higher for V8 and performance models due to larger brakes, wider tires, and higher consumable wear. Insurance and fuel also rise significantly on HEMI, SRT, and Hellcat trims.

What are the best years of Dodge Charger to buy?

Many shoppers prefer 2015–2020 models because of the 2015 update with improved tech and interior, and later years for newer safety and infotainment revisions. The best choice depends on trim, service history, and how well the car was maintained.

What should I check before buying a used 2016 Dodge Charger?

Check for smooth transmission shifting, front-end clunks, uneven tire wear, and any Uconnect screen problems. Inspect for oil leaks (especially on the 3.6L), listen for persistent ticking on V8s, verify maintenance records, and get a pre-purchase inspection. For full specs, trim-by-trim features, fluid capacities, and the complete maintenance schedule, get a complete owner’s guide before you buy.

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

2016 Dodge Charger Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A potent American muscle sedan with specific, high-cost risks that savvy buyers must acknowledge.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2016 Dodge Charger?

The 2016 Dodge Charger offers a compelling blend of performance and style, but it demands a proactive approach to maintenance. While V6 models generally fare better, the Hemi V8 engines carry a significant risk of costly lifter and camshaft failures, pushing this platform into the 'Proceed with Caution' territory for used buyers. Prepare for a few common electrical and suspension quirks to ensure a rewarding ownership experience.

Biggest Strengths

Robust V6 Pentastar engine (when maintained)
Solid ZF 8-speed automatic transmission
Durable body-on-frame platform (overall structure)

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2016 Dodge Charger. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Hemi V8 Engine (MDS System)critical

Electrical System (Uconnect/Sensors)moderate

Front Suspension Componentsmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

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

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain Mopar Stage 1 Kit Performance Packages Powertrain Control Modules (PCM) Part Numbers P5160023, P5160025, and Demon Crate PCM Part Number 68412287AA. The PCMs are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.

What breaks on the 2016 Dodge Charger?

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

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Dodge Charger by Year

Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Dodge Charger. Click any year for its full report.

All Dodge Charger years ranked →Dodge Charger years to avoid →Dodge Charger common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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