Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 77/100 (GOOD)

2020 Dodge Challenger Reliability Report

Name: 2020 Dodge Challenger
Brand: Dodge

The 2020 Dodge Challenger scores 77/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 19 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

3.6per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$650

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,600–$4,600

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity74/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity81/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
POWER TRAIN (3)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2020 is 5 years after the 2015 facelift refresh.

Year 13 in the Third generation (2008–2023) (2008–2023).
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
3rd generation Challenger (US).

What this means for buyers

Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.

2008: Third generation (2008–2023) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2015: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2020: This Model Year

2020 is 5 years after the 2015 facelift refresh.

2021: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2020 Dodge Challenger?

At 77/100, the 2020 Dodge Challenger lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 is 5 years after the 2015 facelift refresh.

Owners log 19 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (7). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2021 Dodge Challenger, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2019 Dodge Challenger for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low major repair risk (14%)
+Low recall count

Cons

−Above-average repair costs for its class
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Several electrical issues with the 2020 Dodge Challenger (7 complaints)
−POWER TRAIN issues reported (3 complaints)

Compare 2020 Dodge Challenger With

2020 Ford Mustang

Reliability: 66/100

Good

2020 Chevrolet Camaro

Reliability: 71/100

Good

2020 Toyota Supra

Reliability: 63/100

Good

2020 Chevrolet Corvette

Reliability: 67/100

Good

2020 BMW 4-Series

Reliability: 52/100

Mixed

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
POWER TRAIN (3)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recall on record

The 2020 Dodge Challenger carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

3.6

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 17.3

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2020 Dodge Challenger Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2020 Dodge Challenger. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

21V5160002021-07-08

VISIBILITY

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."

Consequence

A windshield that separates from the vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will remove and replace the front windshield urethane sealant, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 31, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y47.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2020 Dodge Challenger? Check its history first

Every 2020 Dodge Challenger has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2020 Dodge Challenger NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 11.1%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Not Available)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (None)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Not Available)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Dodge ChallengerRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$650

vs $526 avg for midsize cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.2

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

14%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Challenger

$650

Category Avg

$526

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

15–23 MPG

Running cost: $3,250–$5,250/yr

Fuel + repair

13–19 city / 21–30 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2020 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Challenger 3.6L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	19	30	23	$2,600
Challenger AWD 3.6L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	18	27	21	$2,850
Challenger 6.4L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	15	24	18	$3,850
Challenger 5.7L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	15	23	18	$3,850
Challenger Widebody 6.4L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	15	24	18	$3,850
Challenger 5.7L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	16	25	19	$3,950
Challenger 6.4L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	14	23	17	$4,050
Challenger Widebody 6.4L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	14	23	17	$4,050
Challenger SRT 6.2L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	13	22	16	$4,300
Challenger SRT 6.2L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	13	21	16	$4,300
Challenger SRT Widebody 6.2L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	13	21	16	$4,300
Challenger SRT Widebody 6.2L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	13	21	15	$4,600

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Dodge Challenger.

Inspect clutch pedal assembly for wear or damage
Check drive shaft alignment and condition
Test air conditioning system for consistent operation
Verify infotainment system volume control functionality
Inspect headlight wiring for wear or exposure

2020 Dodge Challenger Common Problems by Component

19 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)POWER TRAIN (3)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)ENGINE (1)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)AIR BAGS (1)Other (1)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

7 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several electrical issues with the 2020 Dodge Challenger. Commonly mentioned problems include the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly while driving, with reports of this occurring both at highway speeds and in other driving conditions. Multiple owners also describe malfunctions in the air conditioning system, such as the controls failing and air not blowing as intended. Additionally, there is a report of a vehicle catching fire while operational, pointing to potential safety risks. These issues are noted across various mileage ranges, with some occurring as early as 18 miles.

7 complaints total1 fire

POWER TRAIN

3 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Challenger report issues related to the power train, notably with the reverse gear and drive shaft. A specific complaint mentions a reverse gear malfunction accompanied by a trouble code TSB 21-039-24. Another recurring issue involves the drive shaft being misaligned shortly after purchase, with two reports describing near-accident scenarios at very low mileage, specifically around 50 miles. These complaints indicate potential safety implications, as the misalignment could lead to loss of vehicle control. Buyers should be aware of these issues when considering a used model, especially regarding early-stage power train failures.

3 complaints total

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Dodge Challenger report issues with the clutch pedal push rod snapping, leading to a loss of clutch pressure. This failure typically occurs around 14,741 miles and results in the inability to disengage the gear, causing potential near-collision situations. Complaints indicate that vehicles must be shut off to come to a complete stop, highlighting a significant safety risk. Used car buyers should be aware of this issue, as it involves critical vehicle control during operation.

2 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Owners report two distinct issues with the 2020 Dodge Challenger. One complaint describes an incident where the sunroof unexpectedly exploded while driving at approximately 70 mph on the highway, with no apparent external cause such as debris from nearby vehicles. Another issue involves the Uconnect infotainment system, where the incoming call ringer volume is set to maximum loudness and cannot be adjusted, causing a startling effect for occupants. This issue reportedly persists despite attempts to update the system, and similar complaints from other users are noted. No specific mileage is mentioned in these complaints, but safety concerns are highlighted, particularly with the loud ringer potentially causing distraction or panic.

2 complaints total

VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

2022-11-03

Windshield is becoming unglued starting to separate

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint

2025-07-15

Cooling fans exploded an went through radiator, making the car inoperable!

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

2024-08-21

Good afternoon, my right headlight wiring harness had rubbed on the frame down to the wires, actually meta l to metal and caused my head light to blow out and my turn signal to malfunction and there is no warning light for the headlight being out, I called the dealership and they said there's no recall and they want a lot of money to fix this problem, I'm afraid it may cause a fire, I've noticed this for about a week, I ordered a new light on 8/22 and that's when I noticed the bare wires

AIR BAGS (1 complaints)

AIR BAGS

1 complaintSafety-related

2021-11-15Crash reported

My car was in a collision yesterday. I was rear-ended and pushed into another vehicle, resulting in both front and rear impacts. The air bag did not deploy, even though I could smell it, as if it did deploy. Also, my car app notified me that the airbag had been deployed and needed to be taken to a service provider to be serviced. The problem is that no airbags actually deployed. So if I had been in a situation that required the airbags to save my life, I would not have had them. I feel like this could really be a problem if it happened in another situation & I wanted to let someone know so they can look into it.

WHEELS (1 complaints)

WHEELS

1 complaint

2020-10-13

I HAD A FLAT TIRE ONE WEEK AFTER I BOUGHT THE $ 60.000 CAR. THEN I LEARNED THE CAR DOES NOT COME WITH A SPARE TIRE. INSTEAD THERE IS A MACHINE, AFTER READING THE MANUAL I GOT THE TIRE TO INFLATE. IMMEDIATELY I WENT TO A TIRE STORE TO GET THE NAIL OUT OF THE TIRE. THEY SAID I WILL HAVE TO BUY A NEW TIRE BECAUSE I USED THE MACHINE THAT DODGE PROVIDES. I REACHED OUT TO DODGE AND HERE IS THEIR REPLY ELLO PAULO; THANK YOU FOR CONTACTING DODGE CUSTOMER CARE. WE ARE SO SORRY TO LEARN OF YOUR CONCERN WITH NOT HAVING A SPARE TIRE IN YOUR 2020 DODGE CHALLENGER R/T SCAT PACK AND I WOULD LIKE TO ASSURE YOU THAT I WILL DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO HELP YOU OUT. BASED ON THE INFORMATION THAT YOU HAVE PROVIDED, THE BEST PLAN OF ACTION WOULD BE FOR YOU TO CONTACT YOUR TIRE MANUFACTURING COMPANY FOR ADVISE AND POSSIBLE RESOLUTION. I HAVE ATTACHED THE CONTACT INFORMATION FOR YOUR TIRE MANUFACTURER HERE: PIRELLI TIRE NA, LLC 100 PIRELLI DRIVE ROME GA 30161-7000. 800-747-3554 SELECT OPTION 2 TO FIND A RETAILER. WWW.US.PIRELLI.COM ( RETAILER LOCATOR) IF IT IS MORE CONVENIENT FOR YOU, CALL US ANYTIME AT DODGE CUSTOMER CARE: 1-800-992-1997 AND JUST PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING CASE NUMBER 77661914; ANYONE YOU SPEAK WITH WILL BE HAPPY TO HELP. THANK YOU AGAIN FOR YOUR EMAIL . HAVE A GREAT DAY. BEST REGARDS, MONICA DODGE CUSTOMER CARE --------------- ORIGINAL MESSAGE ---------------

When Do 2020 Dodge Challenger Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

14,000–15,000 milesClutch pedal push rod snapping

Best & Worst Dodge Challenger Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Dodge Challenger Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Dodge Challenger year is 2020 with a reliability score of 77/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (75/100) and 2021 (75/100).

Top Pick

Good

2020

(Current Model)

1Recalls

19Complaints

Good

2023

2Recalls

38Complaints

Good

2021

2Recalls

17Complaints

Dodge Challenger Years to Avoid

No Dodge Challenger years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Dodge Challenger maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Dodge Challenger years-to-avoid analysis

Dodge Challenger Reliability Score Trend

Dodge Challenger reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 74/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Dodge Challenger reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	72/100	Good
2019	73/100	Good
2020	77/100	Good
2021	75/100	Good
2022	74/100	Good
2023	75/100	Good

Dodge Challenger Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2023	75/100	+1	Good	2	38
2022	74/100	-1	Good	2	8
2021	75/100	-2	Good	2	17
2020(selected)	77/100	+4	Good	1	19
2019	73/100	+1	Good	3	55
2018	72/100	—	Good	4	73

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 Dodge Challenger reliable?

The 2020 Dodge Challenger has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 77/100. It is reasonably reliable with 1 recall and 19 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2020 Dodge Challenger?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 Dodge Challenger include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), POWER TRAIN (3 complaints), VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints), VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2020 Dodge Challenger have?

The 2020 Dodge Challenger has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2020 Dodge Challenger expensive to maintain?

The 2020 Dodge Challenger has estimated annual repair costs of $650/year, which is $124 more than the midsize cars average of $526. With a reliability score of 77/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2020 Dodge Challenger without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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