Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Dodge Charger
The 2019 Dodge Charger has several recalls, notably involving airbag and electrical issues. Despite being generally reliable, some complaints about brakes and engine concerns highlight potential inspection points. Ensure recalls are addressed and perform a thorough assessment before buying.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Dodge Charger has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 120 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 #19V758000 Front Tires May Be Damaged NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V246000 Sun Visors May Lack Air Bag Warning Information NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V203000 Driver Warnings May Not Illuminate NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 49 complaints
- Electrical System 22 complaints
- Unknown or Other 21 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 13 complaints
- Service Brakes 12 complaints
- Engine 10 complaints
Of the 120 complaints on file, 7 report a crash and 3 a fire; across all 120 complaints, owners report 11 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbag inflators may rupture
How to check: Verify recall repair completion and inspect airbags for signs of tampering.
Tires may contact steering knuckle
How to check: Inspect front wheels for wear patterns and ask about recall repairs.
Instrument cluster may not illuminate warnings
How to check: Check all dashboard lights during vehicle start-up.
Backup camera may not display
How to check: Engage reverse and activate backup camera to ensure functionality.
Missing airbag warning on visors
How to check: Inspect sun visor for airbag warning labels.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Loud knocking or shaking
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Feel for unusual braking sensations.
Red flag: Vibration or pulling to one side
- 04
Stop-and-go traffic
What to check: Monitor engine temperature gauge stability.
Red flag: Temperature gauge indicates overheating
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifts without hesitation.
Red flag: Harsh or delayed shifts
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test steering responsiveness and backup camera.
Red flag: Stiff steering or camera failure
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Are all dashboard lights functioning?
- Can you provide service records?
- Has any warranty work been done?
- Are there any current electrical issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Service and maintenance records
- Warranty paperwork
- Title and registration
- Original purchase invoice
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Dodge Charger at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 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.