2012 Dodge ChallengerUNDER FEDERAL INVESTIGATION

253 federal complaints (338 component records) · 6 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 109 service bulletins · 5 Canadian recalls
See all 17 model years of the Dodge Challenger →
Engine
3.6L 6-cyl
Fuel
Midgrade, Premium, Regular
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
18 city / 27 hwy
Federal complaints
253
Recall campaigns
6
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Electrical system
140
Air bags
47
Engine & cooling
25
Other
20
Steering
19
Power train
17
Brakes
9
Glass & wipers
8
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 14 complaints01 years old: 15 complaints2 years old: 47 complaints3 years old: 35 complaints4 years old: 28 complaints5 years old: 37 complaints56 years old: 30 complaints7 years old: 22 complaints8 years old: 9 complaints9 years old: 6 complaints10 years old: 1 complaints1011 years old: 2 complaints12 years old: 4 complaints13 years old: 3 complaints14 years old: 0 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 253 of 253 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 25 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 33 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 45 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 32 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 15 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 14 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 8 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 4 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 2 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 1 complaints200,000+ miles: 5 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 184 of 253 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Electrical system

140 complaint records4 fire reports1 crash report
"2012 DODGE CHALLENGER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE MALFUNCTION AND CONSUMER SEEKS REIMBURSEMENT FOR REPAIRS. *SMD..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse electrical system parts in the directory →

Air bags

47 complaint records6 crash reports
"TAKATA RECALL FOR MY DODGE CHALLENGER HAS NOT BEEN REMEDIED. WHY? WHEN IS IT GOING TO BE FIXED? IT ENDANGERS MY PASSENGER/S EVERY TIME THEY ARE IN MY CAR...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse air bags parts in the directory →

Engine & cooling

25 complaint records3 fire reports
"MY CAR KEEPS GOING FROM 60 OR HOWEVER FAST I'M DRIVING TO SMOKING TIRES AND MY CAR IS HALTED CAUSING ME TO ALMOST WRECK WAY TOO MANY TIMES...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
EA21002
opened Sep 2021
OPENAir BagsDesiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L.

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
19V018000DO NOT DRIVEAir BagsChrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, Ram 4500/5500, 2010-2011 Dodge Dakota, 2010-2014 Dodge Challenger, 2010-2015 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, and 2010-2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles.Normally free
18V021000DO NOT DRIVEAir BagsChrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger vehicles, and 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama,...Normally free
16V352000DO NOT DRIVEAir BagsChrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant.Normally free
17V435000Electrical SystemChrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, Dodge Durango, and 2012-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles.Normally free
14V634000Electrical SystemChrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Durango; and 2012-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured April 22, 2010, to January 2, 2014,...Normally free
13V118000Air BagsChrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles manufactured April 11, 2011, through December 14, 2011.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2024548
2024-08-15
Label314,717Issue: On certain vehicles, the tire and loading information label does not list that there is no spare tire in both official languages. The label reads as "NONE" when it should read as "NONE / AUCUN".
2017341
2017-07-10
Electrical29,625On certain vehicles equipped with electro-hydraulic power steering (“EHPS”), the alternator may fail suddenly.
2016265
2016-05-27
Airbag459,492On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag.
2014446
2014-10-09
Electrical16,080On certain vehicles equipped with 3.6L engines and 160 amp output alternators, the alternator may fail suddenly.
2013101
2013-04-05
Airbag7,010On certain vehicles, seat airbag wiring harnesses were built with improperly sized electrical terminal crimps that may cause an intermittent illumination of the airbag warning light.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
9100229
Sep 2023
SuspensionLIFTER, Hydraulic Roller Deactivating Please do not replace MDS lifters because the disconnecting pin is not lined up, this is normal and not a defect.
9100226
Sep 2023
Electrical SystemConnector kit Before ordering this connector repair kit 68018957A$, check it in the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website to confirm part number and applicability.
9100196
Jul 2023
EquipmentLubrication and Maintenance Fluids If MOPAR fluids and chemicals are not readily available, please review Service Library for specifications so a suitable alternative can be used
0815223
Jun 2023
Fuel SystemFuel Pump Connector Replacement The technician may experience a crank/no start after the fuel pump module was replaced. This bulletin involves replacing the fuel pump connector harness (pigtail) when replacing the fuel pump module.
1804823
Apr 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingwiTECH Small Leak Verification Test (SLVT) - P0456-EVAP SYSTEM SMALL LEAK
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
9003357a
Feb 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingADAPTER, Engine Oil Filter (Pentastar V6) For all 2014MY replace the Oil Filter Adapter (OFA). For any other MY review and follow instructions from the latest STAR Online S1809000007 available on Dealer Connect.
9003357
Feb 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingADAPTER, Engine Oil Filter (Pentastar V6) For all 2014MY replace the Oil Filter Adapter (OFA). For any other MY (with mileage above 30,000) review and follow instructions from STAR Online S1809000007 REV. C available on Dealer Connect.
3100122
Aug 2022
StructureApproved Use of Weld Through Primers This bulletin documents the FCA US LLC position regarding the use of weld through primer when using Squeeze Type Resistance Spot Welding (STRSW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) processes when welding steel body panels and structural...
9004557
Jun 2022
EquipmentOverhead Console If the sunglasses holder door in the overhead console will not stay closed, inspect the Latch for damage. The Latch is now released for service under part number 68599540A$.
S2208000131
Jun 2022
Fuel SystemNo Start Condition After A Fuel Pump Replacement, Multiple Fuel System Level Related DTC?s Setting
S2209000004
Apr 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingIf a Mopar oil filter is not available, use a filter that meets or exceeds USCAR36 specification and is compatible with semi and full synthetic oils.
V51
Apr 2022
Power TrainCustomer Satisfaction Notification V51 Reprogram Powertrain Control Module
9004509
Mar 2022
Power TrainOil Filter If a Mopar Oil Filter is not available, use a filter that meets or exceeds USCAR36 specification and is compatible with semi and full synthetic oils. Recommended Brands: Wix, Purolator, and NapaGold
S1709000010 RevB
Mar 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingCustomer complaints may include abnormal engine noise, rough idle, lack of power, misfire. Upon investigation, it may be found that there is excessive camshaft lobe wear/lifter wear (roller failure) on one or more cam lobes and that camshaft/lifter replacement is necessary.
S1709000010RevB
Mar 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingCustomer complaints may include abnormal engine noise, rough idle, lack of power, misfire. Upon investigation, it may be found that there is excessive camshaft lobe wear/lifter wear (roller failure) on one or more cam lobes and that camshaft/lifter replacement is necessary.
S2109000004
Jul 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingIssue involves overheating, running hot, coolant leaks and related symptoms after a Mopar replacement engine has been installed in the vehicle.
S2008000113 Rev.
Apr 2021
Power TrainNo Start Intermittently, Vehicle Requires Multiple Keyless Push To Start Attempts To Start Vehicle, Intermittent Key Not Detected Message
S2008000113
Apr 2021
Electrical SystemNo Start Intermittently, Vehicle Requires Multiple Keyless Push To Start Attempts To Start Vehicle, Intermittent Key Not Detected Message
S1821000001
Apr 2021
Power TrainGear Ratio DTC?s, Transmission Shift Concerns, Does Not Shift At Times, Shudders
9004009
Apr 2021
Power TrainTransmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage.
9003357
Mar 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingADAPTER, Engine Oil Filter (Pentastar V6) All vehicles equipped with a 3.2L or 3.6L except for model year 2014 vehicles with leak concern: 1) Ensure the Oil Filter Adapter (OFA) Cap O-ring is seated in the proper groove in the cap and not damaged or cut.
9004361
Mar 2021
Power TrainNAG1 Transmission Before installing the transmission with the engine, check for dowel pins (2) for alignment. If the pins are missing request to add the dowel pin first and then install the transmission
S1709000010 Rev.
Jan 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingCustomer complaints may include abnormal engine noise, rough idle, lack of power, misfire. Upon investigation, it may be found that there is excessive camshaft lobe wear/lifter wear (roller failure) on one or more cam lobes and that camshaft/lifter replacement is necessary.
S2008000113
Aug 2020
EngineNo Start Intermittently, Vehicle Requires Multiple Keyless Push To Start Attempts To Start Vehicle
23-015-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentDisinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
08-049-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentCharging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
18-039-20
Apr 2020
Fuel SystemPossible Driveability Issues due to the Winter-Blend Fuel into the Warmer Season
S1508000480
Mar 2020
Electrical SystemSpeed Control Operates Intermittently
9004022
Dec 2019
SuspensionAir Suspension Components Star Parts Catalog has been updated to show individual service parts for the compressor assembly. This will allow service technicians to repair the root cause without over repairing the system.
31-006-19
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
31-004-19
Nov 2019
VisibilityAuthentic Mopar® Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar® Glass.
31-003-19
Nov 2019
EquipmentUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
31-005-19
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
3100619
Nov 2019
EquipmentRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
3100419
Nov 2019
VisibilityAuthentic Mopar® Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar® Glass.
3100319
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
3100519
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
9003220
Aug 2019
EquipmentRADIO [RES] - New and/or Service Exchange For RES radio concerns. Use the wiTECH 2.0 and inspect the radio part number and serial number under the Radio/ECU Details tab. Please verify that the radio part number and/or serial number is not "FFFF".
9004076
May 2019
EquipmentOil Filter Adapter If replacing Oil Filter Adapter due to oil leak, please be aware a seal kit is available for repair. If replacing due to missing Spring Loaded Check Valve, a replacement spring and check valve are now available through MOPAR.
02-008-17
Nov 2017
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityServicing Lower Control Arm Inner Pivot Bushings This bulletin discusses replacement of the lower control arm inner pivot bushings.
9003109
Jun 2017
VisibilityWasher Fluid Level Sensor Prior to replacing this part due to "Low Washer Fluid" tell tale light on the dash and the washer fluid bottle is full, please perform this inspection: Check if float sensor is rotated off location from the bottle anti-rotation features that surround...
9003694
Mar 2017
Engine And Engine CoolingOil Pump Assembly If error code P06DD present on any Pentastar V6 application, please inspect oil pump for relief valve failure. See photo attached.
9003687
Mar 2017
Seat BeltsRestraints Remove I-Sheet from packaging. Correct information sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use.
9003681
Mar 2017
Seat BeltsRestraints Information Sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use.
05152029
Sep 2016
Visibility/WiperWasher Fluid Level Sensor Prior to replacing this part due to "Low Washer Fluid" tell tale light on the dash and the washer fluid bottle is full, please perform the this inspection. Inspect the sensor for a fluid coating on the sensor pins.
21-020-16
May 2016
Power TrainManual Transmission Shifter Noise This bulletin involves greasing or replacing the manual transmission rear shifter bushing. Customers may experience a clunk, squeak, or similar noise heard from center console area while shifting.
2102016
May 2016
Power TrainManual Transmission Shifter Noise This bulletin involves greasing or replacing the manual transmission rear shifter bushing. Customers may experience a clunk, squeak, or similar noise heard from center console area while shifting.
Z5091195A$
May 2016
EquipmentRES / RHA / REB radio that supports Bluetooth and Hands-Free For issues with Bluetooth, Hands-Free Calling, and/or Voice Commands, DO NOT replace the radio. Diagnose the Hands-Free Module system (also called the Telematics Module).
Z5091195A
May 2016
EquipmentRES / RHA / REB radio that supports Bluetooth and Hands-Free For issues with Bluetooth, Hands-Free Calling, and/or Voice Commands, DO NOT replace the radio. Diagnose the Hands-Free Module system (also called the Telematics Module).
68277402A
Apr 2016
Vehicle Speed ControlAdaptive Cruise Control Sensor 1) If you are replacing this part due to the cluster displaying Clean Radar Sensor in Front of Vehicle or DTC C1266 ACC Sensor Blinded, please verify that there is no blockage in front of the sensor.
08-031-16
Mar 2016
EquipmentHands Free Module Prompts Begin Erroneously This bulletin involves diagnosing and based on outcome, either performing a USB flash or replacing the Mopar accessory Hands Free Module (HFM).
0803116
Mar 2016
Electrical SystemHands Free Module Prompts Begin Erroneously.
RL108213A$
Jan 2016
Engine And Engine CoolingNAG1 (5A580) Valve Body As per Warranty Bulletin D-13-22, please use R2108213A$ valve body for all Warranty (W), Mopar (M) and Mopar Vehicle Protection (F) claims.~ Assembly also includes Filter (52108325AA) and Gasket (52108332AA).~
18-067-15 REV A
Nov 2015
Electrical SystemSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
1806715REVA
Nov 2015
Power TrainFlash: PCM Software Enhancements.
18-085-15
Nov 2015
Electrical SystemSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
1808515
Nov 2015
Power TrainThis bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control
SB-18-067-15
Sep 2015
Equipment2011-2012 DODGE CHALLENGER; 2012 DODGE CHARGER; 2012 CHRYSLER 300: MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATION. BULLETIN ON SELECTIVELY ERASING AND REPROGRAMMING POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE *CN
18-067-15
Sep 2015
EngineFlash: PCM Software Enhancements This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software. A small number of customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination.
18-050-15 REVA
Jul 2015
Power TrainFlash: 3.6L Powertrain Diagnostic And System Enhancements This bulletin involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the latest available software. A small number of customers may experience one or more of the following: ?

Showing 60 of 109 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Sit in it with the engine off and test everything that has a switch.Windows, locks, lights, the cluster, the radio. Electrical faults are this vehicle's story and the hardest to see on a drive: an intermittent no-start waits for the second week of ownership. Ask for the battery's age and whether any control module has been replaced.
  2. Watch the airbag warning light through a full key cycle.It should light on start and go out within seconds. A light that stays on, or never lights at all, means the system needs attention. Run the VIN for inflator recalls specifically.
  3. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 6 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Do not drive it home until the do-not-drive recall is confirmed repaired.At least one campaign on this vehicle carries a federal do-not-drive advisory. Confirm the repair with the dealer, by VIN, before taking delivery.
  6. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Dodge Challenger →