The 2021 Dodge Charger has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 29 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Dodge Charger. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Air Bags (11), Power Train (4), Unknown Or Other (3).
Charger reliability snapshot
76/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$652
Avg annual repair cost vs $590 category avg
#10/12
Ranking in fullsize cars · better than 17% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Dodge Charger before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Air Bags11
Power Train4
Unknown Or Other3
Electrical System2
Structure1
Seat Belts1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Dodge Charger
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Test for inconsistent power delivery and hesitation during acceleration
☐Inspect transmission for unexpected downshifts and overheating
☐Verify airbag recall status and ensure repair parts are available
☐Check headlights for intermittent operation and potential wiring issues
☐Examine rear seat belts for unintended loosening
☐Inspect rims for cracks and monitor tire pressure stability
☐Test rear camera for visibility issues, especially at night
What owners reported
2021 Dodge Charger owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 2 crashes to NHTSA for the 2021 Dodge Charger. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints11
AIR BAGS
Owners of the 2021 Dodge Charger frequently report issues related to an airbag recall, specifically NHTSA Campaign Number 24V198000. Many complaints indicate that the repair parts for the recall are not yet available, leading to delays in addressing the issue. Typical symptoms include notifications of the recall without available remedies and concerns about driving the vehicle with unresolved airbag defects. Some owners express frustration over the lack of communication regarding parts availability, while others mention a service airbag system warning or specific airbag component failures, such as a passenger frontal squib control circuit issue. These issues are often reported without specific mileage but are linked to a timeline starting from March 2024. Safety implications are noted, especially for those relying on the vehicle as their primary mode of transportation.
Owner complaints4
POWER TRAIN
Owners report several power train issues with the 2021 Dodge Charger, including transmission problems and inconsistent power delivery. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle downshifting unexpectedly, transmission overheating, and messages such as "Service Transmission" and "Service Shifter Unavailable" appearing. Typical symptoms include a lack of acceleration power in lower gears and the vehicle feeling as though it is stuck or hesitating. These issues are noted at mileages ranging from approximately 2,100 to 66,000 miles. One complaint involves a crash due to the rear end locking up, raising safety implications related to loss of control. Buyers should be aware of these reported issues, especially concerning transmission reliability and potential safety risks.
Owners of the 2021 Dodge Charger report issues related to vehicle theft vulnerability, windshield adhesive concerns, and jack stability during tire changes. One owner describes a theft incident facilitated by a flaw in the vehicle's radio frequency system, leading to a crash and significant depreciation. Another owner notes a safety issue with the vehicle's jack, which slipped during use, prompting reliance on AAA services. Additionally, there is a mention of windshield adhesive not being subject to recall, though no incidents have occurred. These reports highlight potential safety and financial implications, particularly regarding theft and equipment reliability.
Owners report issues with the electrical system of the 2021 Dodge Charger, specifically involving headlights and engine operation. Complaints frequently mention headlights intermittently turning off and on, with suggestions of potential wiring harness overheating, although the bulbs themselves are reported as functional. Additionally, owners describe the vehicle shutting off while driving or failing to start after being parked, with one incident occurring at just 256 miles. These issues are coupled with aggressive transmission downshifts, leading to vehicle jolts and acceleration problems. Safety implications are noted due to the engine stalling while driving, which could pose a risk of loss of control.
2021 Charger recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Charger. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
AIR BAGSNHTSA 24V198000Mar 14, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury or death.
Remedy
Dealers will replace both side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning February 20, 2025. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 19B.
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 Charger resale snapshot
62.9%estimated value retained after 5 years
716listings in the model-level benchmark
$26,790median asking price from 60 listings
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2021 Dodge Charger earns a reliability score of 76 out of 100, positioning it above the segment average. This suggests that the vehicle exhibits solid reliability. Complaints are relatively low, with 29 issues reported. Notably, airbag concerns are the most frequent, indicating a potential area of focus for owners. Other issues like powertrain and electrical system complaints are less common, suggesting these are not widespread problems.
The model's two recalls are limited, reflecting a relatively stable recall history for its age. As the Charger is in the eleventh year of its generation, the design and components have likely matured, contributing to its above-average reliability.
Overall, the 2021 Dodge Charger presents a moderate risk level, with reliability that should meet the expectations of most buyers in its segment.
What you get in a 2021 Dodge Charger 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 Charger now
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2021 Dodge Charger — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Dodge Charger reliable?
The 2021 Dodge Charger earns a reliability score of 76 out of 100, positioning it above the segment average. This suggests that the vehicle exhibits solid reliability. Complaints are relatively low, with 29 issues reported. Notably, airbag concerns are the most frequent, indicating a potential area of focus for owners. Other issues like powertrain and electrical system complaints are less common, suggesting these are not widespread problems.
How many recalls does the 2021 Dodge Charger have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Dodge Charger. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Dodge Charger problems?
The most-reported 2021 Dodge Charger problem areas are: Air Bags (11), Power Train (4), Unknown Or Other (3).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Dodge Charger?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Dodge Charger, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
