2016 Dodge Charger Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 2016 Dodge Charger
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm).
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2018 Dodge Charger earns a 82.
- The system most likely to surface first: hemi v8 engine (mds system) (critical severity).
The 2016 Dodge Charger at a glance
- Is the 2016 Dodge Charger reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2016 Dodge Charger 78/100 (grade C+), categorized as moderate risk. A potent American muscle sedan with specific, high-cost risks that savvy buyers must acknowledge.
- Should I buy a used 2016 Dodge Charger?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2016 Dodge Charger. The 2016 Dodge Charger is a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking American muscle, but it comes with a caveat. While the V6 models offer a more reliable experience, the powerful Hemi V8 engines carry a known and expensive risk of lifter and camshaft failure. Buyers must be diligent with pre-purchase inspections…
- Which Dodge Charger years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 2017-2019 (minor improvements to Uconnect, later Pentastar V6 production). Years to avoid: 2011-2014 (earlier Pentastar V6 head issues, older Uconnect, less refined).
- What are the most common problems with the 2016 Dodge Charger?
- The top failure points on the 2016 Dodge Charger are Hemi V8 Engine (MDS System) (typically around 60,000-120,000 miles), Electrical System (Uconnect/Sensors) (typically around 30,000-90,000 miles), Front Suspension Components (typically around 50,000-100,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2016 Dodge Charger?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2016 Dodge Charger is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — This mileage primarily sees minor electrical quirks, such as Uconnect glitches, which are often fixable with software updates. Most mechanical components are still in excellent condition.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould 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.
The 2016 Dodge Charger is a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking American muscle, but it comes with a caveat. While the V6 models offer a more reliable experience, the powerful Hemi V8 engines carry a known and expensive risk of lifter and camshaft failure. Buyers must be diligent with pre-purchase inspections…
Best Model Years
2017-2019 (minor improvements to Uconnect, later Pentastar V6 production)
Years to Avoid
2011-2014 (earlier Pentastar V6 head issues, older Uconnect, less refined)
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 tend to fail first on the 2016 Dodge Charger, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters in the Hemi V8 engines are prone to premature failure, leading to camshaft wear. This results in ticking noises, misfires, reduced power, and eventually catastrophic engine damage if neglected.
Owners frequently report issues with the Uconnect infotainment system freezing, rebooting, or displaying glitches. Additionally, various sensors (e.g., wheel speed, ABS, crank position) can fail, leading to dashboard warning lights and d…
Wear items like control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends in the front suspension are common failure points. This leads to clunking noises over bumps, loose steering feel, and premature tire wear.
2016 Dodge Charger Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2016 Dodge Charger most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
This mileage primarily sees minor electrical quirks, such as Uconnect glitches, which are often fixable with software updates. Most mechanical components are still in excellent condition.
Maintenance Zone
Beyond standard maintenance like tires and brakes, watch for initial signs of suspension wear (clunks, loose feel). This is also the point where the critical Hemi V8 lifter issue can begin to manifest, so listen carefully for ticking.
Elevated Risk Zone
Hemi V8 lifter failures become more prevalent and severe at this mileage. Electrical sensor failures are also more common, leading to warning lights. Suspension components will likely require replacement.
High Risk Zone
Vehicles at this mileage without a clear history of Hemi V8 engine work are a significant gamble. Expect potential for major engine or transmission issues, compounded by general wear on all systems. Budget for substantial preventative an…
2016 Dodge Charger Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2016 Dodge Charger on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-800
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,500 occasionally (e.g., suspension work, major electrical diagnostics)
How Long Does the 2016 Dodge Charger Last?
For V6 models, prioritize those under 80,000 miles for fewer immediate concerns. For V8 models, anything over 60,000 miles without verifiable lifter work or significant discount carries substantial risk; seek vehicles under 40,000 miles if possible.
What 2016 Dodge Charger Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exhilarating V8 performance and exhaust note (Hemi models)
- Bold, aggressive styling that stands out
- Spacious interior and comfortable ride for long journeys
- Relatively good value for performance when bought used
Common Frustrations
- Poor fuel economy, especially with V8 engines
- Significant blind spots due to thick C-pillars
- Uconnect infotainment system can be frustratingly glitchy
- Higher maintenance and repair costs, particularly for Hemi V8s
Who Should Buy the 2016 Dodge Charger?
Best For
- Performance enthusiasts who enjoy American muscle and are prepared for maintenance
- Drivers needing a spacious, rear-wheel-drive sedan with aggressive styling
- Those who appreciate a comfortable highway cruiser for long distances
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking minimal repair costs
- Anyone prioritizing top-tier fuel efficiency
How the 2016 Dodge Charger Compares to Rivals
While offering unmatched performance for its price point, the Charger's reliability often falls short compared to top-tier Japanese sedans, primarily due to the Hemi V8's specific mechanical vulnerabilities.
More Reliable Than
- 2016 Chevrolet SS (rarer, harder to find parts)
- 2016 Nissan Maxima (CVT transmission risks)
- 2016 Ford Taurus SHO (EcoBoost carbon buildup issues)
Comparable To
- 2016 Chrysler 300 (shared platform and powertrains)
- 2016 Chevrolet Impala (different class, but similar overall reliability)
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 AutoScores across nearby years of the Dodge Charger. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2016 Dodge Charger
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Where the 2016 Dodge Charger report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Sell your 2016 Dodge Charger for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Dodge Charger. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
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