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2013 Dodge Challenger problems

The most common problem on the 2013 Dodge Challenger is electrical system, typically around 49,300 miles. It has 2.3 times the complaints of a typical Challenger model year.

Year to avoid2.3x the typical complaints
Year score
42/100
Owner complaints
179
Recalls
5
Service bulletins
2071 warranty
Worst area
Electrical
Fuel economy
17-21mpg

The worst 2013 Dodge Challenger problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

Specific symptoms reported on the 2013 Dodge Challenger

Stalling 19Check engine light 11Battery drain 9Door locks 9Fire or smoke 8Airbag light 6ABS 5No deployment 5Key fob 5Won't start 5

Recalls 5

Air bags: frontal: passenger side: inflator moduleReported January 15, 2019 · 1,413,222 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, Ram 4500/5500, 2010-2011 Dodge Dakota, 2010-2014 Dodge Challenger, 2010-2015 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, and 2010-2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 4, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V01.

Recall number 19V018000 · Recall details

Air bags: frontal: passenger side: inflator moduleReported January 9, 2018 · 328,177 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger vehicles, and 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, Chrysler is recalling certain 2009-2010 RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Chrysler is also recalling certain 2009 RAM 3500, RAM 2500, RAM 4500 Cab Chassis, RAM 5500 Cab Chassis, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300, Dodge Dakota, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Charger vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U03.

Recall number 18V021000 · Recall details

Electrical system: alternator/generator/regulatorReported July 10, 2017 · 442,214 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, Dodge Durango, and 2012-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The affected vehicles have electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) and are equipped with a 5.7L or a 3.6L engine and a 160, 180 or 220 amp alternator. In the affected vehicles, the alternator may suddenly fail.
Risk
If the alternator fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. There is also the possibility that the alternator may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the alternator and depending on the part number, will replace the alternator, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T36.

Recall number 17V435000 · Recall details

Electrical system: alternator/generator/regulatorReported October 8, 2014 · 435,081 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Durango; and 2012-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured April 22, 2010, to January 2, 2014, and equipped with a 3.6L engine and a 160 amp alternator. In the affected vehicles, the alternator may suddenly fail.
Risk
If the alternator fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will replace the alternator, free of charge. The recall began on February 27, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is P60.

Recall number 14V634000 · Recall details

Electrical system: wiring: front underhoodReported March 21, 2013 · 4,051 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2013 Dodge Challenger vehicles manufactured from December 3, 2012, through January 24, 2013 and equipped with a V6 engine. The battery positive cable at the starter motor may experience an electrical short circuit to ground.
Risk
A short circuit could lead to a vehicle fire.
Remedy
Chrysler has begun notifying owners and they are being advised to immediately refrain from driving their vehicles and to contact their dealers. Chrysler Group further advises affected owners not to park their vehicles in, or near, any structures. Dealers will replace the under hood starter cable assembly, free of charge. The recall notification began on March 22, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1‑800‑247‑9753.

Recall number 13V103000 · Recall details

See all 5 recalls for the 2013 Dodge Challenger

Defect investigations

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureOpened September 17, 2021, still open

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

EA21002

Technical service bulletins for the 2013 Dodge Challenger 207

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

See all 207 bulletins for the 2013 Dodge Challenger

2013 Dodge Challenger fuel economy

Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.

EngineDriveCityHighwayCombined
3.6L 6‑cylRWD182721
5.7L 8‑cylRWD15-1623-2518-19
6.4L 8‑cylRWD142317

What 2013 Dodge Challenger owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed May 16, 2026 · Fuel system · MD

I am reporting a defect condition in a 2013 Dodge Challenger that appears materially identical to the condition described in FCA Emissions Recall UB4 involving the evaporative emissions canister system. See: [XXX] . The vehicle experiences severe difficulty during refueling. Fuel pump nozzles repeatedly and continuously auto-shutoff during normal fueling attempts, preventing normal refueling operation. An independent mechanic diagnosed the issue as related to the evaporative emissions canister / EVAP system. After disconnecting the affected component/system, the vehicle immediately resumed normal fueling operation without repeated pump shutoff. The symptoms and apparent defect mechanism appear materially consistent with those described in Recall UB4 and the federal safety agency bulletin MC-10174189-9999; however, this VIN is currently excluded from the recall population. I am submitting this complaint because the defect appears to exist outside the currently identified VIN population. The manufacturer (Dodge) is refusing to investigate further, citing there is no recall coverage and the federal safety agency is responsible. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Apr 1, 2026 · Acceleration, Brakes · FL

See attached document for complaint.

Filed Feb 9, 2026 · Body, Electrical · TX

Driver & passenger door windows on many 2010-2017 Dodge Challengers activate repeatedly on their own during driving and after ignition is turned off causing the battery to completely drain overnight & sometimes after only one or two hours after the ignition is turned off. There was a TSB#23-039-11. This TSB does not apply to my 2013 Challenger. Parts are extremely expensive and the car leaves me stranded if parked only a couple of hours. During driving the cycling down and up causes danger as it appears the door wants to open on its own and making us have to pull over several times until we figured out it was doing it on its own as if it was haunted. No warning lights on my 2013 Challenger. Mechanics checked it after having 2 brand new batteries drain overnight. Batteries are approximately $200.00. Dealer will only say the door latch mechanism needs replacing at approximately $480.00. Parts cost approx. $190.00.

Filed Nov 17, 2025 · Body, Electrical · CA · fire

On Saturday 1:20am 11/15/25 DRIVING 27 MILES FROM DISTANCE VEHICLE STARTED TO MALFUNCTION ELECTRICALLY WITH INTERNAL LIGHTS QUICKLY POWER OUTAGES ON AND OFF INTERIOR LIGHTIN. dim headlights, or issues with electrical components. 11/15/25 A vehicle fire occurred, and preliminary investigations suggest a battery malfunction as the probable cause. The malfunction led to an uncontrolled thermal event within the battery system, rapidly escalating into a fire that engulfed the vehicle. Further analysis is underway to determine the specific nature of the battery failure and contributing factors.NO WARNING ADVISORY ON THE PRELIMINARY OCCURRENCE IT ESCALATED FROM FLASHING ON AND OFF LIGHTS AND STEREO TO A STIFF STEERING WHEEL AND VEHICLE COMPLETE SHUTDOWN AND RAPIDLY SMOKE COMING FROM THE INTERIOR OF THE TRUNK AND FIRE STARTED CONSUMING THE REAR END OF THE TRUNK AND VEHICLE. THIS WAS A VERY DEVASTATING AND OVERWHELMING TRAGEDY IT HAPPENED WITHIN 15 MINUTES TIMEFRAME AND FIREDEPARTMENT ARRIVED WITHIN FIVE MINUTES INTO THE CONCERNING FIRE IT ALSO TOOK AROUND AROUND A HOUR FOR THE FIREMAN TO PUT OUT THE FIRE FROM THE TRUNK OF THE VEHICLE.

Filed Nov 10, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · IL

* The ignition switch failed to release the key fob. I brought the car home after completing some repairs and sending the car through emissions testing to renew the plates. I made numerous attempts turning the car on and off and trying to get the key fob out of the ignition. The ignition off position would flash ACCESSORIES the same as the accessory position. I was concerned to leave the car as there maybe a short that would draw down the battery or worse ? I locked the doors and left the key fob in the ignition. * YES- available for inspection. * safety issue was is there an electrical issue that would start the car on fire ? * The diagnosis was done by my performance and high end mechanic's shop. The battery in the key bob was changed while being stuck in the ignition to see if a low powered battery was failing to send a signal. No changes. The shop did inform me later in the day that they forced the fob to the left and was able to extract it from the ignition switch. * YES, inspected and review by my trusted mechanics shop. * No signs prior to the attempted removal of the key bof at the finish of returning to my home.

Filed Apr 3, 2025 · Fuel system · ID

At only 68,000 miles, my check engine light came on with code "P0456", which indicates that my Evaporative Emission System has a leak. These leaks lead to increased emissions and fuel loss. The solution is to replace the Emission System Integrity Monitor (ESIM). The life expectancy of this part is 150,000 miles. It should not leak at less than half its life expectancy. I contacted the local dealership and they reported that there isn't a recall on this part yet.

Filed Feb 20, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · TX

When I start the car, it shuts off if I pushed the button to restart it, sounds like it’s double starting itself the only way that I can make it stop is by continuously hitting the button. The only way that I can restart. The car is if I open the driver‘s door, then hit the button to completely cut off the car shut the door hit the button again then the car will start. It’s like I have to reset it. it does it often has been for years when I take it to the mechanics or dealership they tell me to bring it up there when it’s doing it. That’s the only way that they can find out what the issue is, after this happens I’ll take it to the dealership and they find nothing they request for me to bring it when is doing that, but I never know when it’s going to happen until it does, but it doesn’t happen at the dealership. I have Google this issue other challengers are having this issue but again it can never be resolved because it doesn’t happen when you take it to the dealership I believe eventually this will mess up the engine or starter below is asking for a date this incident occurred it started in 2015 when I purchased the car this will happen here or there not that often but it is continuously a problem, over the years and getting worse

Filed Aug 26, 2024 · Electrical · FL · fire

The vehicle is available for inspection. The issue caused a fire under my carport and within 30 feet of a neighbor's house. The car is immobile and still at the location of the incident, it has not been reproduced or inspected. there were no warning lamps at the time of the incident. The electrical system seemed to have several issues over the past years. The passenger side tail light would burn out at least twice a year. The driver's side window would go up and down when the car was off and ran out of battery. The vehicle would allow the key fob to be locked in the car. I took it to the dealer but they were unable to determine the cause. Most recently what a mechanic thought was the starter failed twice in less than six months. Last month, I went to start the car, and it started and then turned off. I heard a pop and crackling sound, and the trunk battery was on fire.

Filed Sep 25, 2023 · Transmission · IN

while turning onto another street transmisson went into neutral. car would`nt accelerate, almost reared by another car. Car is at dealership now, they say it needs new transmission. only has 70,000 miles on it.

Filed Sep 11, 2023 · Electrical, Lights · AR

Taillights aren’t staying on. The break and signal lights work however, after driving the vehicle for a few minutes the taillights go out. I can turn the switch from auto to on but after about 5 minutes each time they are going off

Used buying checklistWhat to check on a 2013 Dodge Challenger before you buy

Compare the 2013 Dodge Challenger

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Other model years

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Questions about the 2013 Dodge Challenger

Is the 2013 Dodge Challenger reliable?

Owners have filed 179 complaints about the 2013 Dodge Challenger, 2.3 times a typical Challenger model year. It is one of the years we flag to avoid.

What is the 2013 Dodge Challenger year score?

The 2013 Dodge Challenger scores 42 out of 100 (below average). The score compares it with the other model years of the Dodge Challenger: 75 is a typical year, 50 means twice the usual complaints, and serious complaints and recalls lower it.

What is the most common problem with the 2013 Dodge Challenger?

Electrical system, with 104 complaints, typically around 49,300 miles. Next is engine (27).

How many recalls does the 2013 Dodge Challenger have?

5 recalls, covering air bags and electrical system.

Was there a recall on the 2013 Dodge Challenger electrical?

Yes, 3 recalls: 17V435000, 14V634000, 13V103000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.

What year does the Dodge Challenger have the most electrical problems?

The Dodge Challenger model years with the most electrical complaints are 2012 (138 complaints), 2013 (104 complaints) and 2011 (103 complaints).

What gas mileage does the 2013 Dodge Challenger get?

Official estimates for the 2013 Dodge Challenger range from 17 to 21 mpg combined. The most efficient version (3.6L 6-cyl, RWD) gets 18 city and 27 highway.

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