The 2021 Dodge Challenger has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 17 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Dodge Challenger. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Air Bags (4), Electrical System (3), Power Train (2).
Challenger reliability snapshot
75/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$650
Avg annual repair cost vs $526 category avg
#19/24
Ranking in midsize cars · better than 21% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Dodge Challenger before checking the VIN
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Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Air Bags4
Electrical System3
Power Train2
Unknown Or Other2
Engine2
Suspension1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Dodge Challenger
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect airbags for deployment issues in crash scenarios
☐Test transmission for neutral shift after moving forward
☐Check for engine fire history or signs of damage
☐Verify automatic start functionality and error messages
☐Ensure reverse camera visibility and adjustability
☐Inspect seatbelt retraction and electrical display functionality
What owners reported
2021 Dodge Challenger owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 4 crashes, 1 fire and 2 injuries to NHTSA for the 2021 Dodge Challenger. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints4
AIR BAGS
Owners report issues with the airbag system in the 2021 Dodge Challenger, particularly in crash situations. Complaints frequently mention airbags failing to deploy during collisions, including incidents involving frontal impacts and hydroplaning, with vehicles often deemed a total loss. One report indicates airbag deployment resulted in injuries due to cuts and burns. Mileage at the time of these incidents varies, with one case at approximately 8,000 miles and another at roughly 45,415 miles. These reports highlight potential safety implications, as multiple crashes are noted, including one leading to a dislocated shoulder and head injury.
Owners of the 2021 Dodge Challenger report issues primarily related to the vehicle's electrical system, with common symptoms including malfunctioning speedometers and intermittent display failures. One owner describes the center display and the display between the speedometer and RPM dials turning off randomly while driving, though the radio remains operational. Another owner experienced all instrument cluster lights activating simultaneously while accelerating, which resulted in a minor crash. This incident highlights potential safety concerns, particularly when the issue occurs at high speeds. There is no clear pattern regarding mileage or ownership duration, but one owner mentions experiencing issues over a three-year period. These reports suggest potential safety implications, particularly due to the intermittent nature of the electrical failures.
Owners of the 2021 Dodge Challenger report issues related to the power train, specifically with the transmission and drive shaft. Common symptoms include a thumping noise and the car lurching upon start-up, which some link to the push button start, although this does not occur with remote start. Another issue described is the vehicle moving forward approximately 15 feet before shifting into neutral, posing a safety risk, particularly when entering traffic. This issue is noted at around 61,113 miles, with concerns about service compliance from previous sellers. Some owners also mention similar problems with Dodge pickup trucks, highlighting potential broader implications within the brand.
Owner complaints2
ENGINE
Owners of the 2021 Dodge Challenger report issues primarily related to engine performance and reliability. One owner describes a catastrophic fuel pump failure occurring within the first 1,000 miles, leading to an inability to recover the vehicle. Another report involves a fire starting while the vehicle is stationary at approximately 16,000 miles, with no prior warning signs. Both complaints highlight significant safety implications, including the potential for fire and mechanical failures that could affect vehicle control. These issues may be relevant for used car buyers considering the Challenger, especially regarding early-stage engine reliability.
Owners of the 2021 Dodge Challenger report issues primarily related to the reverse camera and automatic start system. Complaints frequently mention that the reverse camera screen is not adjustable and causes visibility issues by blinding the cabin, making it difficult to use the mirrors effectively. Additionally, multiple owners describe intermittent failures of the automatic start feature, with error messages indicating "remote start cancelled hood open," even after dealership visits. These issues are noted by owners with vehicles around 38,400 miles, and while no direct safety incidents like crashes or fires are reported, the visibility issue with the reverse camera may have potential safety implications.
2021 Challenger recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Challenger. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 21V664000Aug 26, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Dodge Challenger vehicles. The affected vehicles do not illuminate their safety system status indicators sufficiently in both daylight and nighttime driving conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."
Consequence: Without visible safety system indicators, a driver may not receive information regarding vehicle safety, increasing the risk of injury or a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will re-program instrument clusters with the correct software version, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 5, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-140. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y58.
VISIBILITYNHTSA 21V516000Jul 8, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."
Consequence: A windshield that separates from the vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will remove and replace the front windshield urethane sealant, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 31, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y47.
Used-market value
2021 Dodge Challenger resale snapshot
71.9%estimated value retained after 5 years
267listings in the model-level benchmark
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2021 Dodge Challenger scores above the segment average, indicating a solid reliability profile. With only two recalls, the recall count is limited, suggesting minimal widespread defects. The 17 complaints are dispersed across various systems, with airbag issues slightly more prevalent but not overwhelmingly so. This distribution implies no single area dominates reliability concerns.
As a facelift year, the 2021 model benefits from updates that may address issues from previous iterations, contributing to its above-average score. Overall, the Challenger presents a moderate level of risk for buyers, with no glaring reliability weaknesses.
What you get in a 2021 Dodge Challenger report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2021 Dodge Challenger now
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The 2021 Dodge Challenger scores above the segment average, indicating a solid reliability profile. With only two recalls, the recall count is limited, suggesting minimal widespread defects. The 17 complaints are dispersed across various systems, with airbag issues slightly more prevalent but not overwhelmingly so. This distribution implies no single area dominates reliability concerns.
How many recalls does the 2021 Dodge Challenger have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Dodge Challenger. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Dodge Challenger problems?
The most-reported 2021 Dodge Challenger problem areas are: Air Bags (4), Electrical System (3), Power Train (2).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Dodge Challenger?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Dodge Challenger, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
