Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Dodge Charger Police
The 2012 Dodge Charger Police presents notable concerns with its electrical system, particularly the alternator, leading to potential sudden failures. Complaints also highlight engine and steering issues. While robust in design, these issues should be closely evaluated before purchasing.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Dodge Charger Police has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 13 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V739000 Alternator may Fail Resulting in Engine Stall/Fire NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 6 complaints
- Engine 4 complaints
- Steering 3 complaints
- Service Brakes 2 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 1 complaint
- Engine and Engine Cooling 1 complaint
Of the 13 complaints on file, 1 reports a fire (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Alternator failure
How to check: Inspect alternator for wear or burning smell
Engine complaints
How to check: Check for abnormal engine noises or leaks
Steering complaints
How to check: Test steering response and alignment
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises
Red flag: Knocking or loud tapping sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights
Red flag: Persistent warning lights on display
- 03
City driving
What to check: Verify smooth gear shifting
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifts
- 04
Braking test
What to check: Feel for smooth brake application
Red flag: Vibration or loud noise while braking
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for steady power delivery
Red flag: Hesitation or power loss
- 06
Steering test
What to check: Ensure steering is responsive
Red flag: Stiffness or wandering
- 07
Electrical test
What to check: Test all electronic features
Red flag: Features not working or flickering
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the alternator been replaced?
- Any recent steering repairs?
- Have there been engine issues?
- Are there any ongoing electrical problems?
- How often was the vehicle serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repairs documentation
- Alternator replacement receipt
- 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 Dodge Charger Police at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2012 Dodge Charger Police? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.