Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Dodge Charger
The 2018 Dodge Charger faces several recalls primarily around airbag inflators, electrical issues, and the powertrain system, potentially impacting safety and reliability. Despite some complaints, it remains a popular model with robust performance and distinct style.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Dodge Charger has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 122 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 #24V198000 Side Curtain Air Bag Inflators May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V512000 Stealth Mode Disables Camera Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V524000 Voltage Regulator may Fail and Cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V332000 Cruise Control cannot be Cancelled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V280000 Incorrect Transmission Park Rods Installed NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V281000 Front Driveshaft may Separate from Vehicle NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 45 complaints
- Unknown or Other 33 complaints
- Structure 19 complaints
- Engine 11 complaints
- Power Train 10 complaints
- Service Brakes 6 complaints
Of the 122 complaints on file, 5 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 122 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbag inflators may rupture
How to check: Look for recall fixes on the side curtain airbags.
Wiring issues under the hood
How to check: Inspect for electrical interference or patched wires.
Incorrect park lock rod
How to check: Verify transmission recall work is completed.
Backup camera fails in stealth mode
How to check: Check if backup camera operates when reversing.
Seizing front driveshaft joint
How to check: Inspect driveshaft condition, check for recalls.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Rough idling or knocking sounds
- 02
First minute driving
What to check: Check if backup camera displays correctly.
Red flag: Camera does not display in reverse
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test electrical systems like lights and AC.
Red flag: Flickering lights or AC failure
- 04
Acceleration test
What to check: Notice any hesitation or jerking.
Red flag: Delayed acceleration response
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Feel for smooth gear shifts.
Red flag: Harsh shifting or grinding noise
- 06
Braking test
What to check: Ensure confident and smooth stopping.
Red flag: Vibrations or long stopping distance
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Any unresolved electrical system issues?
- Has the transmission issue been fixed?
- Do all safety features work correctly?
- Any history of engine or driveshaft problems?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall service records
- Maintenance log
- Title and registration
- Vehicle inspection report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Dodge Charger at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 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.