When discussing the history of American muscle cars, it’s foolish not to mention the Dodge Challenger and Charger. Dodge reintroduced the Charger in 2006, this time with four doors and a hefty aggressive body style in the hopes of getting back to its American muscle-car roots. Following the success of the new sixth generation Charger; Dodge then also reintroduced the third generation Challenger in 2008 to compete with the growing market and rival the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang. This time, Dodge seemed to stick to the foundation of the original body style more closely as the new Charger reflected a very similar aesthetic to its original form, yet with a modern twist.
Both models have continued to expand their different configurations and features over time. As of 2022, the Charger is offered in a total of 8 different configurations ranging from the base SXT priced at $32,500 upwards to the SRT Jailbreak edition starting at $86,595. The 2022 Chalenger is available in a total of 10 different variations starting with the SXT base priced at a reasonable $29,450 ranging up to the impressive SRT Super Stock with a sticker price of $83,850.
Due to the amount of various options offered for both the Dodge Charger vs Challenger, these models can be accessible to many different buyers. Yet, their more expensive performance editions can also attract extreme enthusiasts seeking impressive power and performance. But what are the basic differences in both models, and what would make buyers choose one over the other? Throughout this guide we will examine some of the differentiations in the 2022 Chargers and Challengers and the pros and cons of each.
Specs & Performance
For more in-depth information on some of the Charger vs Challenger engine variants, check out some of our previous articles on the most common problems for the Dodge 5.7 Hemi, 6.1 Hemi, and 6.4 Hemi engines. For now, we will focus on some of the engine specs for the entry model 2022 Dodge Charger and Challenger engines. Starting with the basic specs for the 2022 Dodge Charger SXT engine listed below:
| Application | 2022 Charger SXT |
| Displacement | 3.6L |
| Configuration | SXT Coupe, SXT Coupe AWD |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel Injection | Sequential multi-port fuel injection |
| Curb Weight | 3,964 to 4,205 lbs |
| Compression Ratio | 10.2 |
| Bore x Stroke | 96.0mm x 83.0mm |
| Horsepower | 292 hp |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 264 lb-ft |
| 0-60 Time | 6.4 seconds |
Needless to say, the Charger aims to capitalize on power even in its base model SXT. To some drivers, 300 hp might not be extremely impressive, yet with multiple faster configurations and plenty of modifications, even the base model of the Charger offers substantial performance value. However, when considering all of the offered 2022 Charger configurations, horsepower ranges from 292-702 and torque from 260-707 lb-ft. Therefore, there are plenty of progressive engine upgrades as you increase your budget. With that said, let’s now take a look at the base 2022 Challenger SXT engine specs.
| Application | 2022 Challenger SXT |
| Displacement | 3.6L |
| Configuration | SXT Coupe, SXT Coupe AWD |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Fuel Injection | Sequential multi-port fuel injection |
| Curb Weight | 3,841 to 4,051 lbs |
| Compression Ratio | 10.2 |
| Bore x Stroke | 99.5 x 90.9 |
| Horsepower | 303 hp |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 268 lb-ft |
| 0-60 Time | 6.7 seconds |
Again, the 2022 Challenger offers impressively powerful specs on paper. Both the Charger and Challenger may be considered heavy for their size, yet they make up for that weight with enough torque and acceleration. The varying configurations also increase in horsepower starting at our listed 303-807 horsepower and 269-707 lb-ft of torque. However, with increased power comes an increased price. Not let’s jump into a list of each different configuration price-point and their associated horsepower and torque.
Charger vs Challenger Pricing & Differences
Below is a list of each offered configuration for the 2022 Dodge Chargers and Challengers.
2022 Dodge Charger Configurations:
- SXT: $32,500 (292 hp, 260-264 lb. ft. of torque)
- GT: $35,275 (300 hp, 264 lb. ft. of torque)
- R/T: $40,895 (370 hp, 396 lb. ft. of torque)
- Scat Pack: $46,620 (485 hp, 475 lb. ft. of torque)
- Scat Pack Widebody: $52,315 (485 hp, 475 lb. ft. of torque)
- SRT Hellcat: $77,000 (717-792 hp, 650-707 lb. ft. of torque)
- Hellcat Widebody: $85,695 (717-797 hp, 650-707 lb. ft. of torque)
- SRT Jailbreak: $86,595 (807 hp, 707 lb. ft. of torque)
2022 Dodge Challenger Configurations:
- SXT: $30,825 (303 hp, 268 lb. ft. of torque)
- GT: $33,800 (303 hp, 268 lb. ft. of torque)
- R/T: $38,375 (375 hp, 410 lb. ft. of torque)
- Scat Pack: $45,250 (485 hp, 475 lb. ft. of torque)
- Scat Pack Widebody: $75,020 (485 hp, 475 lb. ft. of torque)
- SRT Hellcat Redeye: $76,925 (797 hp, 707 lb. ft. of torque)
- Hellcat Redeye Widebody: $83,230 (797 hp, 707 lb. ft. of torque)
- SRT Superstock: $86,230 (807 hp, 707 lb. ft. of torque)
In conclusion, it’s easy to see that you get what you pay for in terms of power and price for both the Charger and Challenger. Power is a priority for these Dodge models. Yet, how do the 2022 Charger and Challengers stand up in terms of reliability and durability? Now, let’s take a look at the aspects of reliability for each model and some of the most common issues or problems that may occur for drivers.
Dodge Charger vs Challenger Reliability
Fortunately, Dodge has seen an increase in overall reliability for both the Charger and Challenger models throughout recent years. Both models have been rated within the great category by J.D. Power with a respective score of 88/100 for the Challenger and 89/100 for the Charger. However, no engine is absolutely perfect, and problems for the different configurations can become costly. Pricey repairs come along with high-performance vehicles and the higher horsepower Challengers and Chargers don’t differ. With proper maintenance, drivers want to get up to that 200,000-mile mark with their Dodge muscle cars. Yet, with any engine, longevity is based upon timely repairs, usage of high-quality oil, and diligent maintenance. Before we give our verdict on both models’ overall reliability and durability, let’s take a deeper look at some of the most commonly reported problems for both models.
Dodge Charger Most Common Problems
Throughout this section, we will examine some of the most commonly reported problems for the modern era 6th and 7th generation Dodge Chargers. With that said, we will start off with the most commonly reported issues surrounding the transmission. It’s important to note that although this may be one of the more commonly defective areas on the modern Dodge Chargers, not every driver will experience these issues. However, they are common enough for us to examine further. Now let’s jump into these transmission issues and some of their likely symptoms.
T.C.M Problems (Transmission Control Module):
Shifting issues and general issues with the quality of the Charger’s transmission are the most common reporter for drivers, especially those reaching higher mileage. Unfortunately, many drivers report problems with the transmission control module around the 100,000-mile mark. Likely symptoms of problematic TCMs are difficult downshifting or shifting into higher gears, getting stuck in gear, unpredictable shifting, and poor fuel economy. This problem is most likely to occur in Charger models manufactured between 2006 and 2016. Average repair costs of a TCM module in Dodge Chargers (as of 2022) can range from $500 to $900 depending on the source of replacement parts and varying labor costs. Likewise, our next problem also results in difficulty shifting and can lead to more severe transmission issues if not repaired timely and properly.
P.C.M Problems (Powertrain Control Module)
In lamens terms, the powertrain control module controls the engine’s transmission based on the sensors found throughout the car. Again, this problem can directly result in loss of fuel efficiency. Also, this issue can result in a rough start, engine stuttering, and difficulty shifting. Unfortunately, this is another costly repair, as of 2022, a replacement PCM will cost on average between $850 to $1,000 for most chargers (again, depending on varying labor costs and replacement part prices).
Electrical & Lighting Issues
Various electronic and lighting issues can arise for much newer Dodge Chargers directly off the lot. Driver’s report failed power windows to be the primary problem associated with the electrical system. However, other various electrical problems can also arise over time. Unfortunately, this isn’t a product of poor maintenance and can be a random issue found in many Chargers. Interior lights and switches are known to be problematic and often fail. Some drivers report these various issues occurring within the first 10,000 miles yet many drivers can reach upwards of 100,000 miles before experiencing severe technological issues.
Furthermore, let’s now take a look at the most commonly reported problems in newer generation Dodge Challengers.
Dodge Challenger Most Common Problems
Before we dive into the most commonly reported problems for newer Challenger models, we again want to note that not all of these issues will be prevalent for Challenger drivers. With that said, let’s now jump into some of the Challenger’s issues and their most likely symptoms.
TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Problems & Electrical Problems:
The TIPM modules are responsible for essentially controlling all of the Challenger’s electrical components. Failure of the TIPM is most commonly reported in Challenger models from 2008 to 2021. Various issues can arise from a broken TIPM ranging from a failed starter crank, car horn randomly going off, failed power windows, or even deployed airbags or failure of airbag deployment. Due to the severe range of problems resulting from this issue, it is imperative for drivers to fix their TIPM immediately. As of 2016, many Dodge dealerships were quoting drivers up to $1500 for a replacement TIPM, yikes!
Transmission & Shifting Issues
Unfortunately, like the Charger the Challenger does have varying shifting issues as well. Furthermore, this issue is most commonly reporter in Challenger models between 2009 and 2016. Various shifting issues are commonly reported when these Challenger’s surpass the 40,000-50,000 mile mark. Due to the generic variety of these transmission issues, it is hard to identify one exact point within the transmission that is the catalyst for these issues. However, problems with shifting are guaranteed to occur if transmission issues arise within your Dodge Challenger. Similar to the transmission issues identified in the newer Chargers, Dodge has recognized these transmission issues and has produced and updated TCM in order to deter any further problems arising.
Failed Alternator
Specifically, the 2011 Dodge Challenger has had an apparent and common issue with failed alternators. Some drivers have reported severe issues such as their car dying and being unable to restart in unsafe and hazardous areas. Common symptoms of these failed alternators can include a burning scent and squeaking or squealing noise emitting from the engine bay. This problem was so common that Dodge ended up issuing a recall for these alternators in hopes of providing a solution for drivers.
Leaking Power Steering
Lastly, our final issue listed for the Dodge Challenger occurs most commonly in the 2010 models. Leaking power steering can occur in many different aging engines for a variety of reasons. The 2010 Challenger modules had defective assemblies with corrugated links that created common power steering leaks. This is a potentially extremely dangerous issue due to the flammable hazard this leak creates. Many Dodge dealerships offer free repair for this model and year if defects are found within your power steering hose. Again, this is a time-sensitive issue that many drivers should correct immediately before potentially progressing into a dangerous situation.
In conclusion, many of the problems listed for both the Dodge Charger and Challenger can be deterred with timely repairs and diligent maintenance. Yet, some of our issues (such as technical faults, alternator issues, and power steering leaks) can occur directly off the dealership lot. Therefore, its imperative to correct these problems quickly before they create more dangerous or nagging costly repairs for drivers. Because the Charger and Challenger have aimed to correct these issues, and most of these problems occur sporadically at higher mileage, we will still rate both models as above average in terms of reliability and durability.
Since both the Dodge Charger and Challenger are favorites amongst the modding and tuning community, let’s now examine some of the most common modifications that don’t detract from either model’s overall reliability.
Dodge Charger & Challenger Most Common Mods
Due to the wide variety of different mods for both the newer generation Charger and Challengers, we’ll only mention some of the most commonly sought-after modifications. It’s important to note that for drivers seeking substantial power gains, that supportive mods and a good tune are essential. Without either, a customization project could result in lackluster output. With that said, below is a following short list of common modifications for both the Charger and Challenger that are commonly utilized by many drivers:
- Upgraded cold air intake
- Custom Exhaust header/Upgraded exhaust system
- Upgraded Supercharger
- Tuning/Programming
- Upgraded brake pads
These are just a few of the vast amount of modifications available for modern Charger and Challenger models. For a more thorough look at modifications for Dodge’s muscle cars, check out our previous write-up on the 5 best Dodge 5.7 Hemi upgrades. Or, you can check out our previous article on upgrades for the Dodge 6.4 Hemi engine. Finally, let’s summarize our overall perception of the value and differences between the modern Dodge Charger and Challenger models below.
Dodge Charger vs. Challenger Guide Summary
It’s hard to disrespect or disregard the huge impact that both the Dodge Charger and Challenger have had on the American automotive market. Both models re-energized a growing interest in new American muscle cars. We respect the overall reliability and durability of both models and stand by a rating of above-average for each. The popularity of both models was almost immediate upon reintroduction to the market. The Charger and Challenger are some of the kingpins of American muscle car history and look to maintain that standard for years to come.
Regardless of some of our commonly listed problems, issues, and responsive recalls, both cars have exceptional reliability for their power output. Like most engines, these models are likely to require more maintenance and investment over time and high mileage. Customizations are vast making both models a favorite for the modding community. Plus, the many different configurations offer different drivers accessible options depending on their budget and power preferences. Dodge has done a great job of reintroducing these models without treading on the history of either. No car is perfect, yet the newer generations of Dodge Chargers and Challengers seem to demand the respect of consumers worldwide.
Let us know in the comments below your preference between the Dodge Charger vs. Challenger, and if these models truly did maintain the standard’s created by their predecessors!
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