The 2021 Dodge Charger lasts around 200,000 miles, with some average brake wear and check engine light issues reported. At $24,750 to $74,000, it’s a good value for a large sedan which offers better performance than the competition.
Is the 2021 Dodge Charger a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a good year for the Dodge Charger since it offers some strong engines and a practical cabin for a sedan. Owner reviews praise the safety technology, responsive steering, along with the comfortable seats.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are a bit cheaper than other sedans, the seats are comfortable on long trips, cargo space is also excellent in the trunk.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems reported on the 2021 Charger. Avoid models from 2011–2014 which have some issues, while 2015–2022 are much more reliable.
- Performance 9/10 – The base V6 engine offers reasonable power, while the V8s are some of the strongest sedans on the market.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2021 Charger is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera and parking sensors. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control, along with lane-keep assist.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 23 MPG, offering 425 miles of range out of the 18.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $10 higher than average at $213 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Dodge Charger is a decent value since it offers a lot of power and features paired with reasonable depreciation rates for a large sedan.
What Do Critics Say About the Dodge Charger?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Dodge Charger is one of the last old-school big sedans with a V8 engine, which also earns high owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Dodge Charger at 4.6/5, enjoying the large touchscreen with great features, but doesn’t like the lower quality fit and finish compared to other sedans.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Charger a 4.6/5, praising the very user-friendly infotainment system, but owners don’t like the high fuel costs.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Dodge Charger Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Dodge Charger include excessive brake wear, check engine lights, along with some frozen stereo systems. Overall, these problems are similar to other large cars and sports cars on the market, leading to average repair costs as it ages.
Excessive brake wear is the most common complaint from 2021 Charger owners, showing up within the first 10,000 miles. The Charger is a very heavy car, and the brakes tend to wear down quickly. Changing out the brake pads costs around $175, while new rotors are an additional $350 if they have been damaged.
Check engine lights have also been reported by Dodge Charger owners, usually within the first 2,500 miles. To find the source of the problem, you will need to use an OBD-II scan tool to read the ECU for any codes. Once you know what caused the light to turn on, it costs $50 to $500 to fix.
Frozen stereo systems are another problem mentioned by some 2021 Dodge Charger owners in the first 1,000 miles. There are software updates available for the stereo system, which improves its reliability. Most dealerships will install these for free during normal servicing, while others charge around $50 for labor.
There is only one recall on the 2021 Dodge Charger, which is better than some other cars on the market. The recall covers windshield glue, which can separate during an accident, increasing the risk of injury. Dodge will replace the windshield on affected models for free.
How Long Will the 2021 Dodge Charger Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Dodge Charger can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than some other large sedans like the Toyota Avalon. Regular annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than the competition, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $602 per year.
As a used 2021 Charger reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the timing belt tensioner for $280, a water pump costing $550, along with the alternator, which costs $900.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is good, and includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Optional upgrades include a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen along with a stronger stereo system.
Standard safety features are basic since the Charger only comes with a rearview camera and rear parking sensors.
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Forward automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keep assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Forward collision warning
- Lane-departure warning
- Automatic high-beam headlights
Is the 2021 Dodge Charger a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Dodge Charger is a good value if you’re in the market for a large sedan with some strong engine choices. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $24,750 to $74,000, making it more than a Nissan Maxima or VW Arteon. When new, the price range was $31,125 to $72,125. Depreciation is similar to other sports cars, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Dodge Charger?
There are six main models of the 2021 Dodge Charger offered, from the entry-level SXT through to the very powerful SRT Hellcat Redeye. The Charger comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
Dodge Charger SXT is the entry-level model with:
- 292-horsepower V6 engine
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Standard rear-wheel drive, optional all-wheel drive
- Cloth upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats
- 7-inch touch screen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Six-speaker stereo system
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Two USB ports
- Satellite radio
- Rear parking sensors
- Optional leather upholstery
- Optional heated front and rear seats
- Available heated steering wheel
- Optional 8.4-inch touch screen
- Optional navigation system
- Available nine-speaker stereo, HD Radio
Dodge Charger GT is a step up, adding:
- 300-horsepower V6 engine
- Optional all-wheel drive
- 4-inch touch screen
- HD Radio and Wi-Fi hot spot
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Aggressively styled front bumper
- Hood scoop and rear lip spoiler
- 20-inch wheels
- Shares most features with SXT
Dodge Charger R/T has more features, such as:
- 370-horsepower Hemi V8 engine
- Rear-wheel drive
- Shares standard features with GT trim
- Optional 19-speaker audio system
- Additional optional features available
Dodge Charger Scat Pack is a popular choice with:
- 485-horsepower V8 engine
- Upgraded cooling system
- Launch control and line lock modes
- Stiffer suspension
- Limited-slip rear differential
- High-performance Brembo brakes
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is a stronger model, which has:
- 717-horsepower supercharged V8 engine
- Widebody fenders
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Leather upholstery
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Limited active safety features
- Exclusive SRT Hellcat design elements
Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye is the flagship model, which features:
- 797-horsepower supercharged Hemi V8 engine
- Similar features to SRT Hellcat
- Extra power and performance enhancements
- Exclusive Redeye branding and design elements
What Engines Come In the Dodge Charger?
- The base model features a 3.6-liter V6 engine, offering 292 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering a combined fuel economy of about 23 MPG. This engine allows the Charger to achieve a 0-60 MPH time of 6.4 seconds.
- The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine, found in the R/T model, produces 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque. It balances power with a combined fuel economy of 19 MPG and accelerates from 0-60 MPH in just under 5 seconds.
- The Scat Pack models are equipped with a 6.4-liter HEMI V8, boasting 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, achieves a combined fuel economy of around 18 MPG and a 0-60 MPH time of about 4.3 seconds.
- The Hellcat variant features a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine, which churns out 717 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine drops the combined fuel economy to 15 MPG but impressively quickens the 0-60 MPH sprint to 3.6 seconds.
- Lastly, the Hellcat Redeye takes performance to an extreme with its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8, now tuned to deliver a colossal 797 horsepower and 707 lb.-ft. of torque. Despite its focus on raw power, it still manages a combined fuel economy of around 15 MPG. The Redeye variant is capable of a breathtaking 0-60 MPH time of just about 3.5 seconds, making it one of the fastest sedans on the market.
What Colors Does the Dodge Charger Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Dodge Charger?
The 2021 Dodge Charger excels in delivering a high level of comfort, making it a standout choice for both drivers and passengers. The vehicle’s interior is designed with a focus on ergonomic comfort, featuring supportive seats that provide ample cushioning and support, ideal for long drives. The front seats, especially, are noteworthy for their adjustability, including options for lumbar support, allowing drivers to find an ideal driving position easily. This level of customization in seating is complemented by a spacious cabin, offering generous legroom and headroom for occupants in both the front and rear seats. The rear seats are particularly roomy, making the Charger a comfortable option for families or groups.
In terms of ride quality, the 2021 Dodge Charger offers a smooth and stable experience. The suspension is tuned to balance responsiveness with comfort, effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections, thus providing a tranquil ride even on less-than-ideal road surfaces. This smooth handling is paired with well-controlled cabin noise, thanks to sound-deadening materials and a solid build, which keeps road and wind noise at bay. The result is a quiet and serene interior ambiance, enhancing overall comfort during travel.
Furthermore, the Charger’s climate control system deserves mention. It’s efficient and easy to operate, providing a quick and consistent response to maintain the desired cabin temperature. Whether in scorching summers or chilly winters, the system works effectively, adding to the overall comfort. In summary, the 2021 Dodge Charger’s combination of spacious and ergonomic interior design, smooth ride quality, and effective climate control makes it a highly comfortable vehicle, suitable for a variety of passengers and travel needs.
How Much Storage Space Does the Dodge Charger Have?
The 2021 Dodge Charger offers a generous amount of storage space, adeptly catering to both practical needs and convenience. The vehicle boasts a trunk capacity of 16.5 cubic feet, which is ample for a sedan in its class. This space is more than enough to accommodate several large suitcases or about 4-5 full-size golf bags, making it a suitable choice for family trips or sports outings. The trunk’s well-designed shape further enhances its usability, allowing for efficient packing and easy access to stored items.
Beyond the trunk, the 2021 Charger features several thoughtfully placed small interior storage spaces. The cabin includes a decently sized glove compartment, door pockets, and a center console, all designed to hold smaller items like smartphones, wallets, and travel mugs. The center console is particularly noteworthy for its deep storage capability, offering a convenient spot to store items that need to be readily accessible. Additionally, cup holders and a small compartment in front of the gear shift provide extra space for miscellaneous items.
Overall, the 2021 Dodge Charger stands out for its blend of spaciousness and practical interior design. The large trunk space, complemented by various small storage compartments within the cabin, makes it an excellent choice for those who value both capacity and convenience in a vehicle. Whether it’s for everyday use or for special trips, the Charger’s storage options cater to a wide range of needs and preferences, emphasizing its versatility as a family-friendly sedan.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The seventh generation of the Dodge Charger was introduced in 2011, and has had a lot of updates since it was launched.
2015: The V8 models are only offered with rear-wheel drive, the Hellcat model introduced, and there’s a standard eight-speed automatic transmission on all models.
2016: Interior materials are upgraded on the SRT 392 and Hellcat models, optional appearance package changes as well.
2017: Larger 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen offered, new active exhaust system, and light-weight wheels offered on the Hellcat.
2018: SXT models come with a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, more standard features on all models.
2019: Trim levels have been renamed, and the interior materials have been upgraded.
2020: Small options package changes, and new widebody models offered for Hellcat and Scat Pack versions.
2021: Stronger Hellcat Redeye added to the lineup with a 797 horsepower engine.
How Does the Dodge Charger Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Dodge Charger is a decent full size sedan, offering a nice mix of power and practicality, although it’s a bit outdated compared to other sedans on the market.
The Dodge Challenger is another car from Dodge, which costs about $2,500 more. The Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger are very similar, but the Challenger has 2-doors while the Charger has 4-doors. We recommend the Dodge Challenger if you’re looking for a sports car, while the Dodge Charger is a more practical choice.
The Chrysler 300 is a popular large sedan which is available in the same price range. Interior materials are more luxurious in the Chrysler 300, while the Dodge Charger offers stronger engine choices. We recommend the Dodge Charger since it’s more fun to drive, but both are similar and worth testing to see which you prefer.
