The third-generation Challenger (2008-present) is a reliable car with a solid engine lineup. However, it’s known for its automatic transmission problems. Many consumer complaints and threads on owner forums confirm the bad reputation of the Challenger’s automatic transmission.
Key Points
- The third-generation Dodge Challenger was introduced with a five-speed automatic as the only transmission available.
- Newer models equip an eight-speed automatic with manual shifting mode or a six-speed manual gearbox.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recalled the Challenger four times for automatic transmission issues.
- Transmission issues like hesitation and stalling are common on 2008 and 2009 models equipped with a faulty “keyless go” feature.
- Most powertrain-related complaints registered with the NHTSA point to problems caused by faulty transmissions.
- Transmission problems are also common in Challengers equipped with the six-speed manual.
The Challenger Has Been Recalled Twice Over Faulty ‘Keyless Go’ Transmission Feature That May Cause Rollaway
Dodge’s Challenger was new to the market in 2008 when it got its first recall over a faulty wireless ignition system (aka the “keyless go” feature).
The defective system allows the key to be removed from the ignition before placing the shifter in “Park,” which can lead to vehicle rollaway.
The recall affected Challengers equipped with the 5.7L V8 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission.
To fix, dealers reprogrammed the wireless ignition node module so the engine can be turned off only after the transmission and gear selector are in “Park.”
Improperly Installed Transmission Park Lock Rod May Cause More Problems With Vehicle Rollaway
The 2018 Challenger was also recalled over transmission issues, this time for an improperly installed transmission park lock rod.
If the incorrect park lock rod is installed, the transmission may not shift into “Park” and keep the vehicle from moving, increasing the risk of unintended rollaway and the risk of a crash.
To remedy the situation, Chrysler installed the correct park lock rod free of charge.
Drivers Have Been Reporting Issues With Loss of Power Ever Since the Challenger Was Relaunched in 2008, All the Way to the Latest Models
Several Challenger owners have reported a loss of power caused by the transmission. Also, popular online forums like Challenger Talk have reports of loss of power dating back to when the car was brand-new.
But transmission related-problems are not exclusive to early models of the third-generation Challenger.
For instance, in this video of a 2021 V6 Challenger GT with only 1,100 miles, we can hear a “clunk” sound emanating from the driveshaft/transmission.
This happens because the vehicle is not always disengaged when using the push-button start. According to the owner, the problem arose at just over 700 miles.
Dodge Challenger Automatic Transmission Problems Include Hesitation and Car Stalling Without Warning
Many owners have complained that their Challenger hesitates when they accelerate even with healthy, well-maintained engines, which point to a faulty transmission.
Symptoms include grinding or clunking noises, jerky acceleration, and a burning smell.
Other drivers claim their car stalled at different speeds without warning. Most of the time, this condition is caused by the torque converter.
A malfunctioning torque converter can cause the engine to stall, much like a manual vehicle does when it doesn’t have enough speed to carry gear.
Minimize the Risk of Transmission Problems in a Challenger by Carefully Inspecting the Automatic Tranny
Ever since the third-generation Dodge Challenger hit the market, it has been dogged by problems with its automatic transmissions in its V6 and V8 versions.
Transmission problems are common in Challengers equipped with the six-speed manual due to grease that turns to glue at high heat.
But if you have the manual gearbox inspected and the grease replaced, a manual Challenger will offer more reliability than the automatic.
Photos: Stellantis
