Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Dodge Charger
The 2016 Dodge Charger has a moderate number of complaints and six recalls, primarily in the structure and electrical system categories. Issues with vehicle structure and powertrain are notable concerns to consider during purchase. It's crucial to check for specific recall completions. Overall, while some data points to mechanical issues, the evidence is not overwhelming, suggesting selective scrutiny on major components.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Dodge Charger has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 182 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #18E053000 Cruise Control Cannot Be Cancelled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V332000 Cruise Control cannot be Cancelled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V281000 Front Driveshaft may Separate from Vehicle NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V824000 Fire Extinguisher May Be Clogged or Inoperable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V097000 Front Driveshaft Bolts may Loosen and Disconnect NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V043000 Body-Side Sill may Give when Jacking Car NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Structure 53 complaints
- Unknown or Other 32 complaints
- Electrical System 25 complaints
- Engine 25 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 25 complaints
- Power Train 25 complaints
Of the 182 complaints on file, 7 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 182 complaints, owners report 15 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Wiring defects
How to check: Inspect for frayed or exposed wires in the engine bay.
Engine performance issues
How to check: Listen for irregular noises at cold start.
Weak jack points
How to check: Check body-side sill for integrity under vehicle.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or grinding sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights stay on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check acceleration for smoothness.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking during acceleration
- 04
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Listen for creaks during steering.
Red flag: Excessive noise while steering
- 05
Cruise control use
What to check: Ensure cruise control disengages properly.
Red flag: Cruise control won't turn off
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for transmission slip.
Red flag: Revving without acceleration
- 07
Braking from speed
What to check: Feel for vibration or pulsing in brakes.
Red flag: Consistent brake pedal vibration
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have any recalls been performed?
- Are there any electrical issues?
- Has the vehicle had engine repairs?
- Any history of structural damage?
- How does the transmission perform?
- Has the vehicle been in any accidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Vehicle service history
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
- Emissions certificate
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Dodge Charger at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 Dodge Charger? 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.