The Dodge Charger is a sporty sedan well-known for its robust V6 engine, muscle car aesthetics, and comfortable features.
But despite undergoing several transformations, it’s still susceptible to the occasional AWD troubles like weird noises and disengagement issues.
Let’s explore the common problems that could affect your Dodge Charger’s performance and some reliable solutions.
This Article Contains:
- 6 Persistent Dodge Charger AWD Problems (+ Fixes)
- How Much Will Dodge Charger AWD Diagnosis and Repairs Cost?
- Dodge Charger Years to Avoid and Reliable Model Years
Let’s go!
6 Persistent Dodge Charger AWD Problems (+ Fixes)
Here are some of the AWD system issues Dodge Charger owners may encounter and their potential solutions:
1. Transfer Case Makes Whining Noise When AWD Is Activated
If your car makes a whining noise at higher speeds or when the AWD mode is activated, a bad transfer case is likely the culprit. This can happen due to insufficient transfer case fluid or worn components, like the chain, bearings, or gears.
Addressing a bad transfer case is crucial, as it can harm the car’s transmission and other drivetrain components. However, fixing it isn’t easy, so it’s best to have a professional handle it.
A mechanic will have the specific tools and expertise to replace the damaged parts and seals and refill fresh transmission fluid. And, if the transfer case is irreparable, they’ll replace it with a new one.
2. Dodge Charger AWD Doesn’t Engage
The AWD is a computer-operated system that activates automatically on slippery or moderately challenging off-road terrains without requiring the driver’s intervention. It depends on sensors that determine which axles and wheels require more power and traction based on road conditions.
If you notice your AWD system isn’t engaging as expected, it may be due to:
- Electrical sensor problems
- Worn-out AWD components
- Electrical system glitches
These electrical issues can also cause your vehicle’s check engine light to turn on.
You should refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for steps to troubleshoot electrical issues or seek help from a mechanic to determine and address the root cause of the problem.
3. Dodge Charger Loses Power and Doesn’t Restart
This issue mainly occurs in Dodge Charger 2014 to 2017 models where the cruise control wouldn’t shut off due to faulty front driveshaft bolts. This can make the front driveshaft disconnect suddenly, leading to a quick loss of power and control.
But that’s not all!
Several other components can cause your vehicle to lose power, including:
- Clogged air filters
- Dirty or malfunctioning mass air flow sensors
- Blocked fuel filters
- Congested catalytic converters
- Damaged throttle body
- Faulty throttle position sensors
- Issue with spark plugs, ignition coils, and fuel injectors
If your car unexpectedly loses power, bringing it to a certified mechanic is a good idea. They’ll check for these problems and fix whatever is needed to get your car running smoothly again.
4. Service AWD Light Activates (Displays Code C147B)
The DTC code C174B indicates a problem with your front axle disconnect sensor circuit.
Diagnosing this problem can be difficult, so you should visit a mechanic when the warning light with this DTC code shows up.
Here’s how a mechanic will go about resolving the issue:
- They’ll inspect the wire harness connector at the Front Axle Disconnect (FAD) for loose, spread, corroded, or pushed-out terminals. If the FAD pins and wiring harness are not working correctly, they’ll replace them.
- If corrosion isn’t the issue, they’ll conduct a more thorough inspection of the harness for any chaffing or contact areas, particularly eight inches from the connector.
5. Transmission Shift Quality Issues
Transmission issues affect the smoothness of gear changes in automatic transmission vehicles, causing your check engine light to turn on.
If your Dodge Charger has trouble shifting out of park or faces issues with the power steering, it may be due to damaged components connecting the shifter and transmission.
Some other typical transmission issues include:
- Shuddering while shifting gears: If your car shudders or vibrates, it could be due to transmission problems, like a damaged torque converter or clutch.
- Delayed or unresponsive shifts: This means the car takes longer to change gears. Transmission problems can make the car feel sluggish while accelerating and affect the overall driving experience.
- High RPMs without proper gear shift: While accelerating, if you notice that the engine revs to higher RPMs, but the gears don’t shift correctly, it could indicate issues with the transmission system and its ability to engage the appropriate gears.
- Hard shifting: Hard or jerky shifts can occur, making the transition between gears feel abrupt and rough. This may be caused by problems with the transmission fluid, solenoids, or other internal components.
If you notice transmission issues in your vehicle, take the affected vehicle to a reliable mechanic at the earliest.
6. Rear Differential and Axle Seal Leaks
The rear differential is responsible for power distribution to the rear wheel, and axle seals prevent fluid leaks from the differential.
Leaking rear differential and axle seals in a Dodge Charger is a common problem that can result in fluid loss in the drivetrain. They are typically caused by:
- Worn differential side seals
- Damaged gaskets
- Loose driveshaft bolts
If you see fluid spills under your car or notice a clinking or whining noise coming from your differential, get it checked by a certified mechanic ASAP.
Now that we’ve covered the common problems and necessary fixes, let’s look at the cost of these replacement and repair services.
How Much Will Dodge Charger AWD Diagnosis and Repairs Cost?
The cost of diagnosing and repairing the AWD components of your Dodge Charger varies based on factors like the specific issue, local labor rates, and parts required.
Here are the estimated costs of some common AWD repair services:
- AWD system inspection: $150 to $250
- Wheel speed sensor replacement: $150 to $320
- Front axle replacement: $500 to $800
- Transfer case replacement: $2000-$8000
While the Dodge Charger is a reliable car with an average repair cost of $652 (less expensive than fixing a Dodge Challenger, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Ram, or Charger RT), it’s not flawless.
Let’s look at the Dodge Charger years you should skip and the ones worth bargaining for.
Dodge Charger Years to Avoid and Reliable Model Years
Despite being a durable sedan, several model years of the Dodge Charger were infamous for issues like engine failure, poor fuel economy, and brake problems.
If you plan to get a pre-owned Dodge Charger, you should avoid model years: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012, and 2014.
So which ones can you buy instead?
American automaker Dodge has consistently tried to keep the newer models of the Dodge Charger free from the issues listed above. You could visit a reliable dealership to bargain for units produced in 2009, 2010, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.
Overcoming Dodge Charger AWD Problems
The Dodge Charger is a well-known sports car popular for its powerful engines and stylish design, but like most cars, it experiences performance issues from time to time. This guide covers the most common problems Dodge Charger owners may experience and ways to overcome them.
And if you need a reliable mechanic to fix your Dodge Charger, reach out to AutoNation Mobile Service.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance service that offers upfront pricing and stellar customer service.
Contact us and have our expert mechanics perform AWD repairs right in your driveway!