Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Champion Challenger
The 2012 Champion Challenger has minor known equipment recalls, primarily concerning wheelchair lifts, which may not affect all buyers. There are minimal engine complaints. Overall, the model is reliable, but attention should be paid to adaptive equipment if applicable.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Champion Challenger has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1 owner complaint on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #18V573000 Wheelchair Lift may Raise too High NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V757000 Wheel Chair Lift Link Arm Pivot Holes NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V821000 Imperial Triangle Warning Signs/FMVSS 125 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V742000 Wheelchair Lift - Platform Cracking NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V593000 Wheelchair Lift Armored Cable Short Circuit NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 1 complaint
Known issues to inspect
Wheelchair lift failure
How to check: Inspect wheelchair lift operation thoroughly, if equipped.
General engine complaints
How to check: Start engine; listen for unusual noises or misfires.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Engine starts smoothly without noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or misfires.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Consistent idle without stalling.
Red flag: Engine stalls or sputters.
- 03
Acceleration from stop
What to check: Smooth acceleration without hesitation.
Red flag: Hesitation or rough shifting.
- 04
Cruise at highway speeds
What to check: Steady car control and smooth ride.
Red flag: Vibrations or pulling.
- 05
Braking from highway speed
What to check: Smooth, straight braking without noise.
Red flag: Pulling or grinding noises.
- 06
Parking the vehicle
What to check: Easy steering and handling into spot.
Red flag: Hard steering or clunks.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Does it have a wheelchair lift installed?
- Have there been any recall repairs done?
- Is there a history of engine issues?
- Are there any existing equipment problems?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Champion Challenger at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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