NHTSA FEDERAL EVIDENCE AUDITAudited: 2026-08-24

2016 Dodge Charger Common Problems & Defect Telemetry

Authoritative defect intelligence synthesized from 182 verified NHTSA owner complaints, 6 federal safety recalls, and interquartile failure mileage telemetry.

Data Grade: HIGH10 Odometer Verified EntriesMethodology
Executive AI Defect Summary

The 2016 Dodge Charger receives a 4.8/10 MazicBay Reliability Index based on 182 verified NHTSA federal complaints and 6 safety recalls. The primary reported failure mode is Engine Stalling, Oil Consumption & Cooling Defect Reports with a median failure point at 72,000 miles (IQR: 72,00072,000 mi). Out-of-warranty repairs benchmark at $950 – $3,200 .

Dodge Charger PlatformDodge Charger Series
DLC Port: Driver lower dash assembly next to hood lever

*Representative vehicle platform imagery. Body styling varies across generations.

MazicBay Reliability Index
4.8 / 10

24.3 complaints / 10k sold

NHTSA Owner Complaints
182

Verified US federal records

Safety Severity Grade
Critical Risk

Crash, fire & stall audit

Federal Safety Recalls
6

6 Active / Free Remedies

Switch Charger Model Year (2014–2025)
Defect Clustering

Top Reported Problem Clusters (7)

Ranked by NHTSA Complaint Frequency
#1 ENGINE & COOLINGCritical Severity82% Match Confidence

Engine Stalling, Oil Consumption & Cooling Defect Reports

40
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):72,000 milesIQR: 72,00072,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$950 – $3,200 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Engine sudden stall / hesitation while driving
  • Abnormal oil burning / consumption
  • Check Engine Light (MIL) flashing
  • Engine overheating / coolant loss
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11735553 • Filed: 05/04/2026

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Charger. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed oil cooler. The contact was informed that all the oil had spilled into ...

ODI #11721420 • Filed: 03/02/2026

Dodge Charger, 2016, won't turn on a list. Key is in the cup holder. On the driver's side also there are many videos showing this same issue with many dodge, twenty sixteen chargers.

ODI #11718257 • Filed: 02/16/2026

I am the original owner of a 2016 Dodge Charger SXT AWD (VIN: ... ). On February 3, 2026, while driving at highway speeds, the vehicle suffered a catastrophic mechanical failure. I heard a loud metallic grinding noise from underneath, followed by an immediate loss of power and...

#2 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM & BATTERYHigh Severity79% Match Confidence

Electrical Parasitic Drain, Infotainment & Harness Reports

39
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):72,000 milesIQR: 72,00072,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$280 – $850 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Unexplained battery drain after sitting overnight
  • Infotainment display / instrument cluster blackouts
  • Accessory malfunction / alternator fault warnings
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11690668 • Filed: 09/30/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Charger. The contact purchased the vehicle, and the vehicle was taken for the Emissions Test; however, the vehicle failed the Emissions Test. The contact notified the dealer and was informed that some unknown sensors had been replaced, and to allo...

ODI #11689555 • Filed: 09/24/2025

Odometer Faud. The contact purchased a 2016 Dodge Charger. The contact stated that while attempting to have the vehicle diagnosed, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was approximat...

ODI #11658598 • Filed: 05/02/2025

Smelled fuel leaking inside car towards rear seat. Electrical connector to fuel pump had fuel surrounding it (located under back seat, on left side of car). Upon disconnecting connector, I notice two right most pins of connector (on pump) had a burn mark which cause a hole and...

#3 TRANSMISSION & DRIVETRAINCritical Severity81% Match Confidence

Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifting & Slipping Reports

36
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):33,508 milesIQR: 20,26246,754 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$1,400 – $3,800 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Hard gear shifts / delayed engagement into Drive/Reverse
  • Transmission shudder / jerking under acceleration
  • Transmission slipping between gears
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11737747 • Filed: 05/14/2026

The contract owns a 2016 Dodge Charger. The contact stated that while driving approximately 38 MPH, the vehicle began cranking. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road, where they called a relative. Once the relative arrived and inspected the vehicle, they noticed...

ODI #11718257 • Filed: 02/16/2026

I am the original owner of a 2016 Dodge Charger SXT AWD (VIN: ... ). On February 3, 2026, while driving at highway speeds, the vehicle suffered a catastrophic mechanical failure. I heard a loud metallic grinding noise from underneath, followed by an immediate loss of power and...

ODI #11709193 • Filed: 01/06/2026

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Charger. The contact stated that the dashboard and plastic around the gear shifter were folding outward. The contact was concerned that the parts would detach. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manu...

#4 STEERING & SUSPENSIONCritical Severity79% Match Confidence

Electric Power Steering Assist & Suspension Noise Reports

27
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):40,508 milesIQR: 23,76257,254 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$450 – $1,400 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Sudden loss of electric power steering assist
  • Steering wheel pull or highway wander
  • Clunking / knocking noise over bumps
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11711829 • Filed: 01/19/2026

I recently tried to get my oil changed and they told me that the oil filter housing was cracked. After doing research on this there is several sources saying that there is lots that has had the same malfunction. Surprised there isn't a recall on this part

ODI #11667617 • Filed: 06/18/2025

Unknown/. When Press on brake car still moves. Also when put in parked car will move forward or backwards a few inches. Steering wheel does not feel right as if feels not secure when driving.when trying to go in right lane on freeway steering wheel was not all the way respondi...

ODI #11639040 • Filed: 01/28/2025

There’s multiple issues I’ve had with this car since day one. One of them almost causing a crash on the interstate going 70mph. The car shut down though the lights remained on and the message service ESC electronic stability control came on, service AWD system, service electri...

#5 FUEL SYSTEM & INJECTIONMedium Severity65% Match Confidence

Fuel Pump Pressure Loss & Fuel Delivery Defect Reports

15
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):66,000 milesIQR: 63,00069,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$650 – $1,250 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Sudden loss of propulsion power at highway speeds
  • Extended engine cranking / failure to restart
  • Fuel odor near fuel tank / engine bay
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11690668 • Filed: 09/30/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Charger. The contact purchased the vehicle, and the vehicle was taken for the Emissions Test; however, the vehicle failed the Emissions Test. The contact notified the dealer and was informed that some unknown sensors had been replaced, and to allo...

ODI #11658598 • Filed: 05/02/2025

Smelled fuel leaking inside car towards rear seat. Electrical connector to fuel pump had fuel surrounding it (located under back seat, on left side of car). Upon disconnecting connector, I notice two right most pins of connector (on pump) had a burn mark which cause a hole and...

ODI #11553643 • Filed: 11/05/2023

Fuel pump is inoperable due to cheap make(plastic). Leaks out at the top due to the lid and gas comes out thru there right underneath of where my children sit.

#6 BRAKING SYSTEM & ABSCritical Severity76% Match Confidence

Service Brakes, ABS Actuator & Master Cylinder Reports

14
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):57,250 milesIQR: 48,87565,625 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$350 – $1,100 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Spongy or hard brake pedal travel
  • ABS / Brake warning light illuminated
  • Extended stopping distance / pedal vibration
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11667617 • Filed: 06/18/2025

Unknown/. When Press on brake car still moves. Also when put in parked car will move forward or backwards a few inches. Steering wheel does not feel right as if feels not secure when driving.when trying to go in right lane on freeway steering wheel was not all the way respondi...

ODI #11639040 • Filed: 01/28/2025

There’s multiple issues I’ve had with this car since day one. One of them almost causing a crash on the interstate going 70mph. The car shut down though the lights remained on and the message service ESC electronic stability control came on, service AWD system, service electri...

ODI #11543761 • Filed: 09/11/2023

Bolts the attach the emergency brake cable assembly to the frame undercarriage can become rusted and corroded and can pop out which causes the emergency brake to not function correctly which results in transmission damage, shifting while towing, shifting while vehicle jacked u...

#7 AIRBAGS & SAFETY RESTRAINTSCritical Severity78% Match Confidence

Airbag Occupant Detection & Inflator Defect Reports

14
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):55,000 milesIQR: 35,00075,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$400 – $1,200 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • SRS Airbag warning lamp illuminated
  • Passenger occupant classification sensor failure
  • Seat belt retractor lockup
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11663183 • Filed: 05/27/2025

The interior door panels on both front doors of my 2016 Dodge Charger SXT have warped and pulled away from the frame near the window area. The defect appears to be heat-related, and the panels have progressively worsened over time. This issue has not only affected the cosmetic...

ODI #11585455 • Filed: 04/26/2024

Interior door panels are letting loose and detaching from frame. Seems seems to be rather unsafe with the side airbags and all. Many forums online from Dodge Charger owners with same issue on all (4) doors. We need help getting Dodge to recall this issue and help make it right...

ODI #11512682 • Filed: 03/19/2023

The door panels started to peel away from the door. My car was still under warranty at the time and the door panels were replaced by the dealership. after a year the door panels have started to peel back again. It looks like it will keep the side airbag from deploying correctl...

Safety Enforcement

Official NHTSA Safety Recalls (6)

100% Free Dealer Repair
NHTSA Campaign #18E053000Reported: 12/07/2018

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

Summary: 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.

Safety Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will either perform a software update or replace the PCM, free of charge. The recall began July 26 , 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U82, and U83.
NHTSA Campaign #18V332000Reported: 17/05/2018

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

Summary: 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.

Safety Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
NHTSA Campaign #18V281000Reported: 01/05/2018

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Dodge Charger pursuit police vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive and V8 engines. The front driveshaft universal joint may seize or fracture causing the shaft to detach from the vehicle.

Safety Consequence: If the front driveshaft detaches from the vehicle it may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driveshaft, free of charge. The recall began June 27, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U37.
NHTSA Campaign #17V824000Reported: 21/12/2017

EQUIPMENT

Summary: 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

Safety Consequence: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Manufacturer Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
NHTSA Campaign #17V097000Reported: 14/02/2017

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD). The front driveshaft bolts may loosen and allow the front driveshaft to disconnect, potentially causing a loss of motive power.

Safety Consequence: A loss of motive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace all eight front driveshaft bolts, free of charge. The recall began April 7, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T03.
NHTSA Campaign #16V043000Reported: 28/01/2016

STRUCTURE

Summary: FCA US LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Dodge Charger vehicles manufactured August 23, 2010, to January 7, 2016. When an affected vehicle is lifted using the supplied tire jack without chocking the wheels, the vehicle's body-side sill may give causing the tire jack to fail and the car to fall.

Safety Consequence: A car that falls unexpectedly increases the risk of injury.
Manufacturer Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will provide owners with wheel chocks and instructions for their use, free of charge. The recall began on March 21, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S03.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist for 2016 Dodge Charger

Before purchasing a used 2016 Dodge Charger, perform the following targeted inspections based on reported federal defect patterns:

1. Cold Start & Idle Diagnostics

Scan the OBD-II port under the dash for pending freeze-frame codes (e.g. P0300 misfires, P0087 fuel rail pressure, P0420 catalytic efficiency).

2. Transmission Shift Quality Audit

Test vehicle at low-speed stop-and-go and highway merges. Check for delayed reverse engagement or gear shift shudder between 2nd and 3rd gears.

3. Federal Recall Completion Check

Verify that all 6 NHTSA safety recall campaigns have been performed by an authorized dealership using the VIN.

4. Electrical & Infotainment Drain Check

Ensure the instrument cluster, center screen, and auxiliary charging ports operate with stable 12.0V–14.4V alternator voltage.

Frequently Answered Questions

Defect & Reliability Q&A: 2016 Dodge Charger

Is the 2016 Dodge Charger a reliable used car?

The 2016 Dodge Charger earns a 4.8/10 MazicBay Reliability Index based on 182 federal owner reports. Vehicles maintained under factory service schedules exhibit strong longevity past 150,000 miles.

What is the most frequent defect reported on the 2016 Dodge Charger?

The leading complaint category is Engine Stalling, Oil Consumption & Cooling Defect Reports, with a median failure point around 72,000 miles (IQR: 72,00072,000 mi).

Are there free recall repairs available for the 2016 Dodge Charger?

Yes, the NHTSA records 6 safety recall campaign(s) for this model year. All safety recalls are performed 100% free of charge by authorized franchise dealerships regardless of vehicle warranty status.