2018 Dodge Challenger Safety Report
2018 Dodge Challenger: Strong Crash Ratings, but Significant Electrical and Uconnect System Distraction Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Dodge Challenger
Reliability Score
The 2018 Dodge Challenger receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Dodge Challenger
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Dodge Challenger:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uconnect 8.4-Inch Touchscreen Delamination The Uconnect infotainment screen delaminates, causing 'ghost touches' that randomly activate functions like dialing 911, adjusting volume, or changing climate control, leading to severe driver distraction. |
High | Common | 28000-60000+ miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions (General) Various electrical issues reported, including dash lights blinking, radio malfunctions, windows going up/down erratically, and headlights dimming or flashing, sometimes leading to loss of power. |
Medium | Common | unknown miles |
| Cruise Control Unintended Acceleration/Deactivation Failure Recalls indicate a risk of the vehicle maintaining speed or accelerating despite attempts to deactivate cruise control, increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Transmission Park Lock Rod Malfunction A recall addresses an incorrect transmission park lock rod, which may prevent the transmission from shifting into 'PARK' and keeping the vehicle from moving, increasing the risk of unintended movement. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rear Backup Camera Malfunction Backup camera sometimes displays distorted images or a black screen, posing a safety hazard due to the Challenger's large blind spots. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Dodge Challenger:
A significant portion of complaints fall into this category, often relating to general vehicle issues or problems not fitting specific component categories, sometimes linked to Uconnect or electrical issues.
Frequent reports of electrical malfunctions, including issues with the Uconnect screen, dash lights, radio, windows, and headlights, some leading to power loss or fire.
Several complaints related to airbag system issues, though specific details are limited in the provided data.
Complaints regarding wheel damage or issues, including rim damage.
Issues related to the power train, including transmission problems and engine idle behavior, as highlighted by recalls.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Dodge Challenger
Is the 2018 Dodge Challenger safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Dodge Challenger received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, it has a concerning number of complaints (72 total, 9 crashes, 2 fires, 8 injuries) primarily related to electrical system malfunctions and the Uconnect infotainment screen, which can cause significant driver distraction and unintended vehicle actions. Four recalls address critical electrical and powertrain issues that could increase crash risk.
What are common problems with the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Dodge Challenger are related to the 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' category (19% of complaints) and the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (19% of complaints). A prevalent specific problem is the delamination of the Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen, leading to 'ghost touches' that can randomly activate vehicle functions and cause driver distraction. Other issues include general electrical malfunctions, backup camera failures, and problems addressed by recalls such as cruise control issues and transmission park lock rod malfunctions.
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Dodge Challenger?
Yes, there are four recalls for the 2018 Dodge Challenger. These include recalls for electrical system wiring that could lead to vehicle stalls or unintended cruise control acceleration, and power train recalls concerning an incorrect transmission park lock rod and cruise control deactivation issues, all of which increase the risk of a crash.
How does the 2018 Dodge Challenger perform in crash tests?
The 2018 Dodge Challenger performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Is the Uconnect screen issue a safety concern?
Yes, the Uconnect screen delamination issue is a significant safety concern. Numerous complaints describe the screen randomly activating functions like dialing 911, adjusting volume to maximum, or changing climate settings while driving. This 'ghost touching' creates severe driver distraction and can lead to unintended vehicle system activation, increasing the risk of a crash.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the significant electrical and Uconnect infotainment issues, which can be distracting and costly to repair; thoroughly inspect the Uconnect screen and check recall completion records before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Dodge Challenger
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Dodge Challenger. The data includes 72 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 8 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 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.