The venerable brute of the modern muscle car segment, the Dodge Challenger, is heading out of production after 2023. That means fans who want one will likely have to look back at used models. However, potential owners might want to steer clear of five of the Mopar car’s model years to avoid a headache, like the 2012, 2014, and 2010 Dodge Challenger.

What are the Dodge Challenger’s worst years for reliability?

The worst years for the Challenger are the 2012, 2010, 2011, 2014, and 2013 models. Those models have the most frustrating and expensive owner-reported problems, like electrical and engine issues.  

According to Car Complaints, the most common owner reports indicate electrical problems, especially in the pre-2015 models. After 2015, the facelifted and redesigned Challengers shifted their bulk of complaints to other kinds of issues, like the Hemi engine’s propensity to develop a ticking or knocking sound. 

What problems does the 2012 Dodge Challenger have?

The 2012 Dodge Challenger’s most common issues are electrical gremlins. For instance, there are 138 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints about electrical system issues like faulty totally-integrated power modules (TIPMs) and alternator failures. 

However, other complained-about issues pertain to warped brake rotors and window actuators, although the reports are much more infrequent. For instance, the NHTSA has just 17 complaints on file for brake problems in the 2012 Challenger, around eight times fewer than the electrical issues.    

How many miles can a 2010 Dodge Challenger last?

A 2010 Dodge Challenger could last over 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. However, it’s also one of the models with the greatest number of owner complaints for engine problems, most often in the 5.7L Hemi V8. 

Specifically, there are 108 NHTSA complaints about engine issues like premature timing chain failure and ticking noises in Hemi engines. Unfortunately, catastrophic engine failure could require a replacement, which is a costly and bothersome procedure. 

Is the 2011 Dodge Challenger a reliable car?

The 2011 Dodge Challenger could be a reliable used option with judicious preventative maintenance. However, the 2011 Challenger has a few problems that keep it from being as dependable as newer models. For instance, owners report that the 2011 model has electrical issues, like a tendency to consume alternators. 

What’s wrong with the 2014 Dodge Challenger?

The 2014 Challenger, the model year before the facelift and refresh, has 42 NHTSA complaints about engine problems and 56 pertaining to electrical issues. For instance, 2012 models with the 5.7L V8 may develop the notorious Hemi tick, along with alternator and charging system failures. 

How many miles can a 2013 Dodge Challenger last?

Like the 2010 model, a 2013 Challenger has the potential to last 200,000 miles or more. However, it also has 97 NHTSA complaints about electrical issues like a faulty alternator or TIPM.

Of course, as long as the rest of the charging system works properly, an alternator is a relatively innocuous fix. Owners can get a replacement for around $100 or move up to a higher-performance variant. 

What are the best years for the Dodge Challenger?

The post-facelift models (2015 and up) are the best years for the modern Dodge Challenger. Dodge adopted the LA platform for its muscle car coupe, and owners reported fewer instances of electrical gremlins spoiling their good time.