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2016 Dodge Challenger problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 Dodge Challenger has been recalled for and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 2safety recalls
- 78owner complaints
- 10crash reports
- 2fire reports
- 10injuries reported
78 complaints, against an average of 89 for the other 11 Dodge Challenger model years.
Every Dodge Challenger model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2016 Dodge Challenger?
The components named most often in the 78 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 Dodge Challenger owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 78 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why do the headlights or taillights fail on my 2016 Dodge Challenger?6 owners · 7.7%
- Why does my 2016 Dodge Challenger stall, lose power or shut off while driving?5 owners · 6.4%
- Why does the seat belt not latch or retract properly in my 2016 Dodge Challenger?5 owners · 6.4%
- Why does my 2016 Dodge Challenger smell of burning or smoke?4 owners · 5.1%
- Why is the airbag light on in my 2016 Dodge Challenger?3 owners · 3.8%
- Does the 2016 Dodge Challenger have rust or paint problems?3 owners · 3.8%
Has the 2016 Dodge Challenger been recalled?
2 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Power Train: Automatic Transmission: Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm) Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain Mopar Stage 1 Kit Performance Packages Powertrain Control Modules (PCM) Part Numbers P5160023, P5160025, and Demon Crate PCM Part Number 68412287AA. The PCMs are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Risk: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will either perform a software update or replace the PCM, free of charge. The recall began July 26 , 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U82, and U83.
Electrical System: Wiring Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Risk: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Is the 2016 Dodge Challenger recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSAPassenger airbag inflator
Risk: Passenger air bag may deploy incorrectly if activated.
Fix: Replace the passenger air bag inflator.
UK DVSAThe degradation of the catalytic converter may result in vehicles exceeding the emissions standards
Risk: The degradation of the catalytic converter may result in vehicles exceeding the emissions standards.
Fix: Update the Powertrain Control Module with the latest available software and replace the catalytic converters and the oxygen sensors.
UK DVSAVehicle electronic systems may malfunction
Risk: On vehicles with Uconnect 8.4 screen radio the computer-controlled electronic systems may be at risk of unauthorized and/or unlawful access which may affect vehicle behaviour.
Fix: Update software on affected vehicles
EU Safety GateThe airbag could rupture when activated, leading to fragmentation of the airbag parts.These small parts could be projected towards the driver/occupants, potentially causing serious or even fatal injuries. The product does not comply with the Regulation on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 30/07/2025; Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Request to stop driving; Date of entry into force: 30/07/2025
EU Safety GateA defect in the gas generator of the passenger airbag may cause uncontrolled inflation when the airbag is activated.As a result, small metal particles can be released, increasing the risk of injury to the occupants.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
What do 2016 Dodge Challenger owners report?
12 of the 78 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
Good morning my (eps) Electronic steering system isn't working I have the light on my dashboard and while driving it went on and couldn't steer it needs force to turn and its difficult to keep it straight this is the second time im replacing this part last time I had this same problem was 2 yrs ago and I've noticed online people having the same issue with not only challengers but other dodge vehicles that use the Electronic steering system that fails while the car is in motion very dangerous if your driving on the freeway. I seen there was a recall for this but on certain cars but I don't…
I am reporting a serious vehicle safety issue caused by negligent service performed by Tony T’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, located at 7250 Gulf Freeway, Houston, TX 77017. The dealership performed a borescope inspection of the rear differential on my 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, as documented on my invoice. After this service, it was discovered that critical differential plugs were removed and not reinstalled, multiple fasteners were missing, and the differential assembly was left loose to the point it could be physically moved by hand. This condition created a significant safety hazard…
My 2016 Dodge Challenger has less then 38,000 miles. I don’t even drive it in the rain to keep it spotless. I have taken great care of it. It started making a knocking noise from underneath the car. Took it to the dodge dealership & found out the drive shaft is bad.If you google 2016 Dodge challenger sxt drive shaft issue you will see that this is a nation wide problem starting from 2015 to 2018. I think Dodge should be responsible for fixing this issue. Its not right,
Hemi Tick. The problem is so bad there is a common name for Stelantis 5.7 Hemi engine. Nothing else needs to be said the problem is well documented.
I had a recall fixed at dodge for PCM since then service power steering comes on and the steering wheel locks up sometimes I'm driving and it seizes up it started at 37000 miles And when my extended warranty was up 3yr manufacture 6 yr extended warranty but since we purchased it in the beginning the warranty overlapped not fair since I should have had 9 yrs now I can't even drive my car more than 15minutes also it's very dangerous that I can be driving and all of a sudden can't turn the steering.
Center bond of crankshaft Damper falling-off front of engines on the highway due to defective bonding material in manufacturing causing failure in rubber bonding. At highways speeds, a 10lb chunk of metal will fall-off HEMI engines & create a flying projectile at other motorists on the road causing damage or death to other vehicles/drivers and/or pedestrians. Owners who are unaware of this safety-issue will be unaware that their crankshaft-damper has fallen off due to not realizing a piece of the engine is now missing, thus creating possibility of engine failure due to No Vibration Dampening…
Center LED Tail Lights burned out. No damage or modification done. Fuses checked. Unit failed. 41,000 miles
Tipman module is melting and has a burning smell and black marks where there has been spark. Fire hazard. Draws too many amps from headlights. Drivers side seatbelt won't register and seatbelt airbag light is on.
The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Challenger. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was a knocking and ticking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the engine lifters and rocker's arms were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 78,000.
ON APRIL 19TH 2021 MY WIFE WAS TRAVELING BETWEEN 30 -35 MPH IN HER 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER SXT ON A MINOR THOROUGHFARE WHEN A CAR TURNED ABRUPTLY IN FRONT OF HER. MY WIFE'S VEHICLE SUSTAINED SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE FILED A COMPLAINT WITH THE DODGE CORPORATION AS WELL AS THE THE DEALERSHIP AT WHICH SHE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE NEW. AT THE TIME OF THE COLLISION THE VEHICLE HAD ONLY 32,876 MILES ON IT.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 67 MPH, THE DRIVER CRASHED INTO A PEDESTRIAN WHO WAS JAY WALKING AND SUCCUMBED TO HIS INJURIES. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES TO HIS RIBS FROM THE SEAT BELT AND FACE DUE TO THE WINDSHIELD GLASS SHATTERING WHICH EMBEDDED INTO HIS SKIN BUT NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS PROVIDED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT WHERE IT WAS BEING HELD FOR AN INVESTIGATION. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED, THE…
CAXMAX SOLD ME A CAR THAT MY MECHANIC DESCRIBED AS FLOOD DAMAGED UP TO THE BODY LINE JUST BELOW THE WINDOW. RUST FROM THE ENGINE TO THE EXHAUST TIPS. ROCKS AND SAND IN ALL BODY CAVITIES ON THE UNDERSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. I CONVEYED THIS INFORMATION TO MY SALESMAN WHO FACILITATED A REFUND. I INCLUDED PHOTOS. A WEEK LATER IT WAS BACK ON THE CARMAX SOUTH SACRAMENTO WEBSITE (WHERE I BOUGHT IT) WITH UPDATED MILEAGE INFORMATION AND NO MENTION OF THE FLOOD DAMAGE. AS IT IS IN 'UNAVAILABLE' STATUS IT IS LIKELY BEING RESOLD TO ANOTHER UNSUSPECTING CONSUMER.
2016 Dodge Challenger: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 Dodge Challenger reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 78 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Dodge Challenger; the most common categories were power train (16, 20.5%), electrical system (15, 19.2%), engine (12, 15.4%). There are 2 safety recalls. 10 complaints mention a crash, 2 mention a fire, 10 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Dodge Challenger?
Across 78 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are power train (20.5% of complaints), electrical system (19.2% of complaints), engine (15.4% of complaints), air bags (14.1% of complaints), steering (11.5% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 Dodge Challenger have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Dodge Challenger; the most recent (campaign 18E053000, 2018-07-12) concerns Power Train: Automatic Transmission: Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why do the headlights or taillights fail on my 2016 Dodge Challenger?
6 of the 78 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Dodge Challenger (7.7%) describe headlights, taillights or brake lights failing or condensation in the lamps. One owner wrote: "The wiring to the headlights are getting hot and visibly showing burn Mark's to the wiring and fuses to the headlights (not halo lights). It is causing the headlights to come on intermittently. Sometimes they come on at night and sometimes they don't." (NHTSA complaint 11454258, February 2022). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Dodge Challenger stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
5 of the 78 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Dodge Challenger (6.4%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "Battery failure light brought up on dashboard, battery voltage healthy but dashboard readings read otherwise. over time car stalled out, disabled abs, electronic stability control and brakes. speedometer went up and down and power steering shut off." (NHTSA complaint 11162096, December 2018). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does the seat belt not latch or retract properly in my 2016 Dodge Challenger?
5 of the 78 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Dodge Challenger (6.4%) describe seat belts not latching, retracting or locking. One owner wrote: "Tipman module is melting and has a burning smell and black marks where there has been spark. Fire hazard. Draws too many amps from headlights. Drivers side seatbelt won't register and seatbelt airbag light is on." (NHTSA complaint 11568974, January 2024). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Dodge Challenger smell of burning or smoke?
4 of the 78 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Dodge Challenger (5.1%) describe a burning smell or smoke. One owner wrote: "Tipman module is melting and has a burning smell and black marks where there has been spark. Fire hazard. Draws too many amps from headlights. Drivers side seatbelt won't register and seatbelt airbag light is on." (NHTSA complaint 11568974, January 2024). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the airbag light on in my 2016 Dodge Challenger?
3 of the 78 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Dodge Challenger (3.8%) describe airbag warning lights or airbag faults. One owner wrote: "Tipman module is melting and has a burning smell and black marks where there has been spark. Fire hazard. Draws too many amps from headlights. Drivers side seatbelt won't register and seatbelt airbag light is on." (NHTSA complaint 11568974, January 2024). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Does the 2016 Dodge Challenger have rust or paint problems?
3 of the 78 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Dodge Challenger (3.8%) describe rust, corrosion or peeling paint. One owner wrote: "Caxmax sold me a car that my mechanic described as flood damaged up to the body line just below the window. rust from the engine to the exhaust tips. rocks and sand in all body cavities on the underside of the vehicle." (NHTSA complaint 11301517, January 2020). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own Challenger
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2016 only; combines NHTSA's entries for CHALLENGER and CHALLENGER SRT.