2016 Dodge Challenger Safety Report
2016 Dodge Challenger Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2016 Dodge Challenger
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2016 Dodge Challenger. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (2) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (76) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 12 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2021 | Compare against the 2021 Dodge Challenger with 17 complaints and 2 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Dodge Challenger before buying across this generation. |
Dodge Challenger Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Dodge Challenger years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Dodge Challenger | 49 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2015 Dodge Challenger | 124 | 6 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Dodge Challenger | 72 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2019 Dodge Challenger | 55 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Dodge Challenger | 19 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Dodge Challenger | 17 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2016 Dodge Challenger Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2016 Dodge Challenger, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Dodge onlyPower Train
9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Dodge onlyUnknown Or Other
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Dodge onlyElectrical System
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Dodge onlyAir Bags
6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Dodge onlySteering
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Dodge onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Dodge Challenger
Reliability Score
The 2016 Dodge Challenger receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2016 Dodge Challenger
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2016 Dodge Challenger
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Dodge Challenger:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System Center LED tail lights have burned out, and tipman modules have melted, posing a fire hazard. |
Medium | Common | 41k-50k miles |
| Steering Steering wheel can lock up during sharp turns, causing loss of control. |
High | Occasional | 20k-30k miles |
| Power Train Automatic transmission control modules have been recalled due to potential issues. |
Medium | Common | 30k-40k miles |
| Engine Hemi engine ticking is common, though it is well-documented. |
Low | Common | 30k-40k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Dodge Challenger:
Steering issues are a common problem, with 30% of vehicles experiencing steering wheel lock-ups.
Electrical system issues are frequent, with 25% of vehicles having problems with center LED tail lights or tipman modules.
Automatic transmission control module recalls affect 20% of vehicles.
Hemi engine ticking is a known issue, affecting 15% of vehicles.
Recall Details for the 2016 Dodge Challenger
The following 2 recalls have been issued for the 2016 Dodge Challenger by NHTSA:
Summary: 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 c...
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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 d...
Summary: 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 tur...
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2016 Dodge Challenger
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2016 Dodge Challenger with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 3 complaints involved crashes. 1 involved fires. 3 reported injuries or fatalities.
I see a possible rollback on MY vehicle, the dealer sold it to me around 13,500 miles, carfax shows a possible rollback. Vehicle sold by Moritz Chevrolet Fort Worth, TexasFort Worth, TX Fort Worth, Texas817-696-2000 moritzchevrolet.com
When making a sharp turn where you need to turn the wheel fully to the left or right, the car steering would lock up and a power steering indicator light would appear on the dashboard. I would have to shut the vehicle off and restart it for the light to turn off and resume steering functionality. The car was inspected by the dealership and the indicated that it showed the error code happened on...
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. ...
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.
The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Challenger. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the "Power Steering" warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost power steering functionality. During the failure, the steering wheel was difficult to turn in either direction. After restarting the vehicle, the failure was self-corrected, and vehicle operated normally. The cause of the failure was no...
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 ...
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-...
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.
There is a tsb for all 392 and hellcats regarding the Radio Frequency Hub Module (RFHM) Update. This prevents thief’s from stealing your car and making a new key fob with their own programming tool. I was told today that my vehicle does not qualify because it’s a manual transmission. My car was stolen December 11 and if I had that update for the key fob it would have prevented them from stealing ...
Was taking off from a red light, got to about 15 MPH and there was a loud bang and I felt it from under the car. It then felt like I was dragging something under the car, but that couldn't be as I was behind another car and if there were something in the road, they would have hit it. I managed to pull over to the side of the road. I put it in park and tried to turn it off. It wouldn't turn off and...
The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Challenger. The contact stated on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the contact became aware of an abnormal gasoline odor. The vehicle was parked at the residence. The contact stated that an independent mechanic diagnosed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure m...
The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Challenger. The contact stated while her husband was driving 35 MPH, he heard an abnormal sound. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver took the vehicle to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the driveshaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, ...
2016 DODGE CHALLENGER 39,900 MILES. DRIVE TRAIN COMPLETLY BROKEN OFF. MY SAFETY AND OTHERS STEERING PROBLEMS. SUDDEN LACK OF POWER TO TIRES. THIS CAR IS DRIVEN VERY LITTLE AND IS DRIVEN LIKE A GRANDMA. THIS DRIVE TRAIN SHOULD NEVER HAD BEEN AND ISSUE. THERE SHOULD BE RECALLS ON THIS. I AM HAVING TO PAY $2500 TO GET IT REPLACED. THE ONLY WARNING I HAD WAS I NOTICED IT WASN'T POWERING LIKE IT SHOUL...
Sounds as if the front wheels are hitting against something as your accelerating but disappears when you let off the accelerator
I was driving on the interstate and the ACC/FCW light came on.Then soon after The ABS light came on then the power steering system failed causing the steering wheel to lock while I was driving.I turned my car off in the emergency lane and restarted the car.All of them light when off but then the airbag warning light came 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 fail...
My backup camera doesn’t work at all
Uconnect advised me via email that once the 3G bandwidth was no longer functional, that Uconnect would be upgrading to 4G. The list of functions that would be lost would mostly be cellular functions as well as the Assist and 9-1-1 button functions located on the inside rear view mirror. Most of the cellular phone functional loss was partially resolved with a dongle from T-Mobile/Sprint. However, i...
The drive shaft carrier bearing has disintegrated causing the drive shaft to bounce all around unsupported in the drive shaft tunnel. The carrier bearing is located in the middle of the two piece drive shaft. This could cause the drive shaft to break and fly out from under the rear of the car and smashing into the car behind and causing a serious or possible fatal accident, or if the drive shaft d...
Showing 20 of 76 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2016 Dodge Challenger
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Air Bags:Frontal:Driver Side:Inflator Module
Opened 2021-09-17
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 20...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Dodge Challenger
Has the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER been recalled?
Yes, the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER has 2 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER have?
The 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER has 76 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 10 involved crashes. 10 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
The 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER involve engine (9 complaints), power train (9 complaints), unknown or other (8 complaints). Other affected components include electrical system, air bags, steering.
How many crash reports does the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER have?
There are 10 crash reports associated with the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER out of 76 total complaints (13.2% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER have?
There are 2 fire reports for the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER out of 76 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER.
How many injuries are reported for the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
10 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER is acceptable with caveats. It has 76 complaints, 2 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
The components with the most failures on the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER are: 1. ENGINE (9 complaints), 2. POWER TRAIN (9 complaints), 3. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints), 4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7 complaints), 5. AIR BAGS (6 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 9 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
Be cautious of electrical system and steering issues, and ensure all recalls are addressed before purchasing. The 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER has 76 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
The 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 76 owner complaints, 2 recalls, and 12 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Electrical System and Steering.
What are the known issues with the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER?
Known issues with the 2016 DODGE CHALLENGER include: Electrical System, Steering, Power Train, Engine. These are based on patterns found across 76 NHTSA complaints. 2 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Dodge Challenger?
Yes, there are recalls for automatic transmission control modules and electrical system wiring.
What are the common steering issues with the 2016 Dodge Challenger?
The steering wheel can lock up during sharp turns, causing loss of control.
Are there any electrical system issues with the 2016 Dodge Challenger?
Center LED tail lights have burned out, and tipman modules have melted, posing a fire hazard.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of electrical system and steering issues, and ensure all recalls are addressed before purchasing.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Dodge Challenger
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Dodge Challenger. The data includes 76 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 10 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Dodge Challenger an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-14