2018 Dodge Challenger Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The electrical system is the most frequent complaint area, with owners reporting issues like Uconnect screen failures and battery drain.
- A critical concern is the reported airbag non-deployment in some incidents, a significant safety risk that warrants careful inspection.
- Verify that all 6 recalls, particularly the cruise control system recall, have been properly addressed by a qualified technician.
- While rated highly for safety (5-star overall), the underlying reliability issues, especially with electronics, lower its overall ownership appeal.
2018 Dodge Challenger
The 2018 Dodge Challenger offers a compelling blend of aggressive styling and V8 power, but used car shoppers should approach with informed caution. This muscle car garnered a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, featuring strong performance in side and overall crash tests. However, its reliability assessment is below average, largely driven by a high volume of owner complaints focused on the electrical system, including Uconnect failures and potential critical system malfunctions. Additionally, reports of airbag non-deployment and power train issues are significant concerns. With 6 recalls issued, including one addressing cruise control disengagement, potential buyers should verify all safety campaigns have been completed. Fuel economy is modest, with a combined EPA rating of 17 MPG, and it requires premium fuel for its 8-cylinder engine.
Critical Failure Risk
Numerous complaints center on the electrical system, notably the Uconnect infotainment system experiencing freezing, reboots, screen delamination, and phantom touches. Other issues include instrument cluster failures and battery drain.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited door access.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Enthusiasts prioritizing performance and aggressive styling over long-term, worry-free reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a dependable daily driver with minimal unexpected repair costs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Dodge Challenger Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Dodge Challenger.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Coupe
- EPA Combined MPG
- 17
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 26 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 7 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $120 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Dodge Challenger reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Dodge Challenger is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 112.
How practical is the 2018 Dodge Challenger for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited door access. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 459 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Dodge Challenger is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 4.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Dodge Challenger?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Uconnect, etc.) (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1500+).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
Base MSRP is $33,995.
What engine is in the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
Engine specs list 8 • 6.4.
What transmission does the 2018 Dodge Challenger use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Dodge Challenger, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2018 Challenger require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
6 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Dodge Challenger?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Dodge Challenger, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Dodge Challenger, body style is coupe.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Dodge Challenger use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Dodge Challenger, drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
Top complaint category: electrical system (26 reports, 23.2% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Ford Mustang and 2018 Chevrolet Camaro.