2013 Dodge Challenger Problems And Complaints

2013 Dodge Challenger User Complaints and Problems

Engine and Mechanical Problems

• Engine - Some users faced engine-related issues. These include stalling while driving, excessive oil consumption, and a loud ticking noise from the engine. These problems can cause accidents and are signs of serious engine issues.
• Brakes - Several users reported brake issues, including premature wear on pads/rotors, brake failure while driving, and unresponsive/spongy brake pedal, posing safety risks.
• Suspension - Users commonly complained about the harsh ride quality of the car on rough roads. Some reported suspension issues, including noisy shocks/struts and worn-out bushings.
• Powertrain - Users reported transmission issues, including rough shifting, slipping gears, and hesitation when accelerating. Some reported a whining noise from the rear differential, indicating a serious problem.
• Steering - Some users reported power steering issues, including loss of assistance and difficulty turning the wheel. Some reported a clicking/popping noise from the steering column, indicating a serious problem.
• Hydraulics - A few drivers reported issues with the hydraulic system, including leaks and damage to the power steering pump and hoses.

Safety Problems

• Driver Assistance Features - Users reported issues with the car's cruise control randomly turning off while driving. Some reported malfunctions in the rearview camera, including a black screen or distorted images.

• Seat Belts - A few users have reported issues with the front seat belts, with some stating that they would not retract properly, making it difficult to buckle up.

• Airbags - There have been a few reports of the airbag warning light turning on for no apparent reason, even when the airbag system is functioning properly.

Exterior Problems

• Paint - Several users have reported issues with the car's paint, including easy chipping and scratching, as well as fading over time, particularly on the hood and roof.

• Body - Some users have reported issues with the front bumper, which becomes loose or falls off. There have also been reports of minor impacts causing scratches or dents to the car's body.

• Lighting - There have been reports of the car's headlights flickering or turning off completely while driving.Some users have reported issues with the car's turn signals, with some stating that they would stop working or blink at irregular intervals.

• Sunroof/Moonroof - There have been reports of the car's sunroof leaking during rain or car washes, which could cause water damage to the interior of the car.

Electrical Problems

• Electronics - Several users reported issues with the electrical system, including problems with the ignition switch and the wiring. Some users reported that the car would not start or would stall while driving due to these issues.
• Warning lights - This is a common issue with dashboard warning lights in the 2013 Dodge Challenger that have caused problems for some owners. Check engine light stays on after repair, and airbag light comes on intermittently.
• Battery - Users have reported battery-related issues, including quick draining or failure to hold a charge. Some users also reported the car not starting, even after replacing the battery.

2013 Dodge Challenger Recalls

S. No	Date	NHTSA ID	Issues Noticed	Additional Remarks	Remedy
1	03/06/2013	13V087000	Potential for a short circuit in the side-impact sensor wiring	This could cause the airbag warning light to illuminate and/or the side airbags to deploy inadvertently while driving	Dealers will replace the affected side-impact sensors free of charge
2	08/08/2013	13V315000	Alternator may fail to function properly	This could result in the vehicle stalling or not starting, and may cause damage to the vehicle's electrical system or a fire	Dealers will replace the alternator with a new one free of charge
3	09/18/2013	13V412000	Misprinted labels on the tire and loading information placards	This could lead to incorrect tire inflation information being provided, increasing the risk of a crash or injury in the event of a tire failure or blowout	Dealers will replace the affected labels with corrected labels free of charge
4	11/07/2013	13V550000	Incorrect wiring of the seat-mounted side airbag wiring harnesses	This could cause the airbag warning light to illuminate, and the side airbags may not deploy properly in the event of a crash	Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, repair the affected wiring harnesses free of charge
5	01/28/2014	14V007000	Inaccurate fuel gauge readings may occur	This could result in the vehicle unexpectedly running out of fuel or stalling while driving	Dealers will update the instrument cluster software to correct the fuel gauge reading free of charge
6	06/23/2014	14V311000	Ignition switch may inadvertently move out of the "run" position	This could cause the engine to stall or the airbags to not deploy properly in the event of a crash	Dealers will replace the ignition switch with a new one free of charge
7	12/24/2014	14V795000	Defective alternator could cause vehicle to stall or catch fire	This could cause a crash, injury, or death	Dealers will replace the alternator with a new one free of charge
8	02/19/2015	15V090000	Faulty bolts may cause the driveshaft to disconnect while driving	This could cause the vehicle to stall, or result in a loss of power to the rear wheels, increasing the risk of a crash	Dealers will replace the bolts and secure the driveshaft free of charge
9	07/22/2015	15V467000	Faulty instrument cluster may display incorrect warning messages or go blank	This could cause the driver to be unaware of important warnings or information, increasing the risk of a crash	Dealers will replace the instrument cluster with a new one free of charge
10	08/10/2016	16V529000	Front airbag inflators may rupture and send metal fragments flying	This recall is part of the larger Takata airbag recall.	Dealers will replace the front driver and passenger airbag inflators for free.

Should you buy the 2013 Dodge Challenger?

Considering the recalls and user complaints for the 2013 Challenger, it's important to note that this model year has some significant issues. There have been numerous complaints related to engine and mechanical problems, as well as issues with the electronics, brakes, and lighting.

However, if these issues have been addressed and rectified in a specific 2013 Challenger that you are considering, and you are willing to invest in proper maintenance and repairs, it can still be a fun and exciting vehicle to own.

If you are in the market for a muscle car, some alternatives to consider include the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro. These models may offer better reliability and fewer issues, but they may not have the same unique style and character as the Challenger.