Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 76/100 (GOOD)

2021 Dodge Charger Reliability Report

Name: 2021 Dodge Charger
Brand: Dodge

The 2021 Dodge Charger scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 29 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

3.7per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$652

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,600–$4,600

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity76/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity83/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

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

Top Issues to Watch

AIR BAGS (11)
POWER TRAIN (4)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2021 is 1 year after the 2020 facelift refresh.

Year 11 in the Seventh generation (2011-2023) (2011–2023).
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
7th generation Charger (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.

2011: Seventh generation (2011-2023) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2015: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2021: This Model Year

2021 is 1 year after the 2020 facelift refresh.

Should You Buy the 2021 Dodge Charger?

At 76/100, the 2021 Dodge Charger lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 is 1 year after the 2020 facelift refresh.

Owners log 29 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 air bags (11). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2022 Dodge Charger, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2020 Dodge Charger for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low major repair risk (15%)
+Low recall count

Cons

−Above-average repair costs for its class
−AIR BAGS issues reported (11 complaints)
−POWER TRAIN: Several power train issues with the 2021 Dodge Charger, including transmission... (4 complaints)

Compare 2021 Dodge Charger With

2021 Chrysler 300

Reliability: 73/100

Good

2021 Toyota Camry

Reliability: 82/100

Excellent

2021 Honda Accord

Reliability: 78/100

Good

2021 Nissan Altima

Reliability: 79/100

Good

2021 KIA K5

Reliability: 71/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

AIR BAGS (11)
POWER TRAIN (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2021 Dodge Charger carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

3.7

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 16.9

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.

2021 Dodge Charger Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Dodge Charger. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

24V1980002024-03-14

AIR BAGS

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.

Consequence

An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury or death.

Remedy

Dealers will replace both side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning February 20, 2025. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 19B.

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 2021 Dodge Charger? Check its history first

Every 2021 Dodge Charger 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

2021 Dodge Charger NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 10.1%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Restraint (Not Available)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)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 (Driver)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 ChargerRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

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

Est. Annual Maintenance

$652

vs $590 avg for fullsize cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.2

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

15%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Charger

$652

Category Avg

$590

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

12–19 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 2021 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Charger 3.6L 6-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	19	30	23	$2,600
Charger AWD 3.6L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	18	27	21	$2,850
Charger 6.4L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	15	24	18	$3,850
Charger Widebody 6.4L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	15	24	18	$3,850
Charger 5.7L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	16	25	19	$3,950
Charger SRT Widebody 6.2L 8-cyl	Rear-Wheel Drive	Automatic 8-spd	12	21	15	$4,600

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Dodge Charger.

Test for inconsistent power delivery and hesitation during acceleration
Inspect transmission for unexpected downshifts and overheating
Verify airbag recall status and ensure repair parts are available
Check headlights for intermittent operation and potential wiring issues
Examine rear seat belts for unintended loosening
Inspect rims for cracks and monitor tire pressure stability
Test rear camera for visibility issues, especially at night

2021 Dodge Charger Common Problems by Component

29 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

AIR BAGS (11)POWER TRAIN (4)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2)SUSPENSION (1)STRUCTURE (1)SEAT BELTS (1)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)Other (5)

AIR BAGS

11 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Dodge Charger frequently report issues related to an airbag recall, specifically NHTSA Campaign Number 24V198000. Many complaints indicate that the repair parts for the recall are not yet available, leading to delays in addressing the issue. Typical symptoms include notifications of the recall without available remedies and concerns about driving the vehicle with unresolved airbag defects. Some owners express frustration over the lack of communication regarding parts availability, while others mention a service airbag system warning or specific airbag component failures, such as a passenger frontal squib control circuit issue. These issues are often reported without specific mileage but are linked to a timeline starting from March 2024. Safety implications are noted, especially for those relying on the vehicle as their primary mode of transportation.

11 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report several power train issues with the 2021 Dodge Charger, including transmission problems and inconsistent power delivery. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle downshifting unexpectedly, transmission overheating, and messages such as "Service Transmission" and "Service Shifter Unavailable" appearing. Typical symptoms include a lack of acceleration power in lower gears and the vehicle feeling as though it is stuck or hesitating. These issues are noted at mileages ranging from approximately 2,100 to 66,000 miles. One complaint involves a crash due to the rear end locking up, raising safety implications related to loss of control. Buyers should be aware of these reported issues, especially concerning transmission reliability and potential safety risks.

4 complaints total1 crash

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2021 Dodge Charger report issues related to vehicle theft vulnerability, windshield adhesive concerns, and jack stability during tire changes. One owner describes a theft incident facilitated by a flaw in the vehicle's radio frequency system, leading to a crash and significant depreciation. Another owner notes a safety issue with the vehicle's jack, which slipped during use, prompting reliance on AAA services. Additionally, there is a mention of windshield adhesive not being subject to recall, though no incidents have occurred. These reports highlight potential safety and financial implications, particularly regarding theft and equipment reliability.

3 complaints total1 crash

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2 complaints

Owners report issues with the electrical system of the 2021 Dodge Charger, specifically involving headlights and engine operation. Complaints frequently mention headlights intermittently turning off and on, with suggestions of potential wiring harness overheating, although the bulbs themselves are reported as functional. Additionally, owners describe the vehicle shutting off while driving or failing to start after being parked, with one incident occurring at just 256 miles. These issues are coupled with aggressive transmission downshifts, leading to vehicle jolts and acceleration problems. Safety implications are noted due to the engine stalling while driving, which could pose a risk of loss of control.

2 complaints total

SUSPENSION (1 complaints)

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

2023-01-28

Heard popping under car while driving noticed there appeared to be an issue with rear control arm removed rear tires and found both rear control arms to be broken and rubbing frame one free hanging and the other in a bind

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint

2025-10-15

Rear doors cannot be opened from the inside when the child proof locks are in the open position, or the locked position. They can only be opened for the inside when unlocked from the drivers unlock panel.

SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

2025-08-20

The contact owns a 2021 Dodge Charger. The contact stated that while installing the car seats in the rear of the vehicle, the contact became aware that the driver’s side and passenger’s side rear seat belts would loosen unintendedly while attempting to fasten the seat belts. The vehicle had not been taken to a dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 61,702.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

2025-08-01

condensation in headlight

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint

2024-08-02

During a recent tire change, I observed that the plastic cover beneath the engine had become dislodged, and several clips were broken. Additionally, a large round component had detached and fallen out. Following consultation with fellow Dodge Charger Scat Pack owners on social media, it appears that this issue is not an isolated incident and raises concerns about the reliability of the engine's internal components. As such, I believe it is crucial for the manufacturer to investigate and address this problem promptly.

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint

2023-09-13

The contact owns a 2021 Dodge Charger. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH and making a left turn, the power steering failed to operate properly, causing the steering wheel to become difficult to turn in either direction. The contact stated that the "Electric Power Steering Failure" message was displayed after the failure. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 53,000.

When Do 2021 Dodge Charger Problems Start?

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

2,100–66,000 milesPower train issues

256–66,000 milesElectrical system failures

Best & Worst Dodge Charger Years

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

Best Dodge Charger Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Dodge Charger year is 2023 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2021 (76/100) and 2020 (75/100).

Top Pick

Good

2023

2Recalls

22Complaints

Good

2021

(Current Model)

2Recalls

29Complaints

Good

2020

3Recalls

54Complaints

Dodge Charger Years to Avoid

No Dodge Charger years are statistical outliers in our data.

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

See full Dodge Charger years-to-avoid analysis

Dodge Charger Reliability Score Trend

Dodge Charger reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 73/100.

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

Dodge Charger reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	69/100	Good
2019	71/100	Good
2020	75/100	Good
2021	76/100	Good
2022	74/100	Good
2023	76/100	Good
2024	73/100	Good
2025	71/100	Good

Dodge Charger Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	73/100 (predicted)	—	Predicted	0	0
2025	71/100	-2	Good	2	10
2024	73/100	-3	Good	2	4
2023	76/100	+2	Good	2	22
2022	74/100	-2	Good	3	11
2021(selected)	76/100	+1	Good	2	29
2020	75/100	+4	Good	3	54
2019	71/100	+2	Good	5	118
2018	69/100	—	Good	6	121

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Dodge Charger reliable?

The 2021 Dodge Charger has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 76/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 29 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Dodge Charger?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 Dodge Charger include: AIR BAGS (11 complaints), POWER TRAIN (4 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints), SUSPENSION (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2021 Dodge Charger have?

The 2021 Dodge Charger has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2021 Dodge Charger expensive to maintain?

The 2021 Dodge Charger has estimated annual repair costs of $652/year, which is $62 more than the fullsize cars average of $590. With a reliability score of 76/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2021 Dodge Charger without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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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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