Longevity matters when you’re vehicle shopping. Looking for a Dodge Challenger? You’ll be glad to know it has great ratings and is known for going well over 100k miles without major repairs.
The original Challenger debuted in 1964, so that’s obviously not the one we’re here to discuss. We’re talking about the latest generation that started with the 2008 redesign.
How long does a Dodge Challenger last?
If you take proper care of your Challenger, it’s possible for it to last beyond 200,000 miles before it needs any major repairs.
Thankfully, in this article, we’ll go over exactly what you need to know to ensure that your Dodge Challenger serves you well for as many years as possible. When you purchase a new car, you always want to be sure you’re doing all that you can to get the maximum life out of the engine. Proper maintenance of your Dodge Challenger can help you to do exactly that.
Helping Your Challenger Last: What You Need to Know
Your Dodge Challenger will let you know when it’s time for an oil change with an automatic oil change alert system. For many vehicles, you’ll be alerted that you need an oil change every 3,500 miles.
If you typically only drive on short trips, your vehicle may go as far as 10,000 miles before it needs an oil change.
Many factors, including your driving habits, the temperatures through which you normally drive, and more, will inform how often you need to get your oil changed.
Dodge recommends that in addition to an oil and filter change, you have your mechanic perform some additional services each time you bring your Challenger in for an oil change. Dodge recommends that you have the battery serviced (if necessary) and have your tires rotated.
Your mechanic should also check the engine cooling system, brakes, brake pads, rotors, and parking brake system. If you drive in dusty conditions regularly, your mechanic should also take a look at the engine air cleaner.
Keeping Your Challenger Running: Signs to Look Out For
Of course, if you notice a problem with your Challenger, it’s essential that you bring it in to be serviced as soon as possible — there’s no need to wait until it’s time for an oil change.
Signs that your vehicle needs to be serviced include:
- Slow to start
- Warning lights on the dashboard
- A feeling of shaking or vibrating while driving at high speeds
- Grinding or pulsating when you apply pressure to the brakes
What Drivers are Saying
Many Challenger enthusiasts report that they’ve driven their cars for 200,000, or even 300,000 miles before it needed any basic repairs. Fuel pump and transmission issues tend to be the first major repair needed by Challengers, so it’s important to keep an eye out for signs that these systems are failing.
Keep up with your standard maintenance, including regular oil changes, and you can certainly be one of the success stories of driving a Challenger that runs for years to come.
Thinking about Buying a Challenger? Time to get a Vehicle History Report
If you’re thinking about purchasing a Dodge Challenger, you’re doing the right thing by doing your research before you make a final decision. Understanding common issues with the car, as well as average longevity, can help you be aware of any issues so that you can make an informed choice.
Your next step? Get a report on Vehicle History so that you can fully understand the specs, expert reviews, and common driver issues for the Challenger you’re considering.
