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2021 Dodge Challenger Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2021 Dodge Challenger Report

Overall Score

6.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Challenger's 6.4L V8 delivers robust performance, but requires premium fuel.
  • Significant safety concerns include airbag failures to deploy, a critical issue.
  • Electrical system problems, including instrument cluster and Uconnect issues, are frequently reported.
  • Early-life powertrain complaints, such as fuel pump failures and differential issues, warrant attention.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Dodge Challenger

The 2021 Dodge Challenger is a rear-wheel-drive muscle car powered by a 6.4L V8 engine, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. It achieves an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined. Safety scores are strong, with an overall 5-star rating from NHTSA. However, this model year faces scrutiny for a high number of recalls (13) and complaints (26), particularly concerning airbag system failures and electrical issues, often reported at low mileage. These factors contribute to a "Below Average" reliability assessment, suggesting potential ownership risks and higher-than-average repair costs.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints include speedometer issues, warning lights, and Uconnect system freezing. Recalls also target the instrument cluster. These can range from minor annoyances to critical functional failures.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls13
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

26
Air Bags4
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
17
MPG
City
14
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.8/ 10

Practicality

3.2/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts prioritizing V8 power and classic muscle car styling.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance vehicle.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Dodge Challenger Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Dodge Challenger.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
17

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 4 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 3 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
13 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Dodge Challenger reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Dodge Challenger is 7.8/10. Reliability score is 7.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 13. Owner complaints: 26.

How practical is the 2021 Dodge Challenger for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Dodge Challenger is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 3.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 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 at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Instrument Cluster) (typical at 15,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

Engine specs list 8 • 6.4.

What transmission does the 2021 Dodge Challenger use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Dodge Challenger, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 Challenger require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

8 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Dodge Challenger, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Dodge Challenger, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Dodge Challenger use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Dodge Challenger, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (4 reports, 15.4% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

This model year has 13 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Dodge Challenger?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Ford Mustang and 2021 Chevrolet Camaro.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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