2020 Dodge Challenger Safety Report

2020 Dodge Challenger: Strong crash ratings, but critical electrical and power train complaints, plus a windshield recall.

19Complaints
1Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
1Crash Reports
1Fire Reports
Most reported components: Electrical System (3)Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes,Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Unknown Or Other (2)Power Train (2)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (1)Engine (1)Exterior Lighting (1)Power Train,Air Bags,Seat Belts (1)Electrical System,Engine (1)Visibility/Wiper (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Dodge Challenger

The 2020 Dodge Challenger presents a mixed safety profile. While it achieved strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating, 5-star side impact, and 4-star frontal and rollover ratings, its complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. With 19 total complaints, including 1 crash and 1 fire incident, there are notable issues beyond typical wear and tear. The single recall addresses a critical safety defect concerning windshield bonding, which could increase injury risk in a crash. Common complaint patterns include electrical system malfunctions, with 3 complaints specifically mentioning this component, and issues related to the power train, also with 2 distinct complaints. Specific incidents reported range from a vehicle catching fire while operational to complete power loss while driving at highway speeds. The recall for windshield bonding is particularly relevant, as one complaint explicitly mentions the windshield becoming unglued and separating, directly aligning with the recall's stated defect. Despite the high crash test scores, the nature of some complaints, such as unexpected power loss, airbag malfunction during a collision, and a vehicle fire, suggests potential critical failures that could compromise safety. The low number of total complaints (19) for a vehicle of this type and age might suggest these are isolated incidents, but their severity warrants attention. The recall for windshield bonding is a significant safety concern that owners should ensure has been addressed.

Reliability Score

The 2020 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 2020 Dodge Challenger

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Dodge Challenger:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Windshield Bonding Defect
Windshield may not be properly bonded, increasing injury risk in a crash. Subject of a recall.		 High Rare N/A miles
Unexpected Power Loss While Driving
Vehicle completely shuts off at highway speeds or while driving, requiring restart.		 High Occasional N/A miles
Vehicle Fire
Vehicle caught fire while operational with no prior warnings.		 High Rare N/A miles
Airbag Non-Deployment In Collision
Airbags failed to deploy in a significant front and rear impact collision.		 High Rare N/A miles
Clutch/Transmission Failure
Loud snapping sound, loss of clutch pressure, and inability to engage gears.		 High Rare N/A miles
Cooling Fan Explosion
Cooling fans exploded, damaging the radiator and rendering the car inoperable.		 High Rare N/A miles
Electrical System Malfunctions
Issues like headlight wiring rubbing, infotainment screen flashing/freezing, and AC controls stopping.		 Medium Occasional N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Dodge Challenger:

Electrical System 15% of complaints

Multiple complaints regarding headlight wiring, infotainment system glitches, and AC control failures.

Power Train 10% of complaints

Reports of clutch failure and issues with the drive shaft.

Engine 5% of complaints

One complaint of cooling fans exploding and damaging the radiator.

Air Bags 5% of complaints

One report of airbags failing to deploy in a collision.

Visibility:Windshield 5% of complaints

One complaint of windshield separating, directly related to the recall.

Fuel/Propulsion System 10% of complaints

Reports of vehicle completely shutting off while driving.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Dodge Challenger

Is the 2020 Dodge Challenger safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Dodge Challenger received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, there are 19 reported complaints, including 1 crash and 1 fire, and a recall for a windshield bonding defect that could increase injury risk. While crash protection is strong, some critical component failures have been reported.

What are common problems with the 2020 Dodge Challenger?

The most reported issues for the 2020 Dodge Challenger involve the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints), VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints), FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (2 complaints). Specific problems include unexpected power loss, clutch failure, and various electrical malfunctions.

Has the 2020 Dodge Challenger been recalled?

Yes, the 2020 Dodge Challenger has had one recall. This recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 20V-604) addresses a defect where the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, which could lead to separation during a crash and increase the risk of injury.

How did the 2020 Dodge Challenger perform in crash tests?

The 2020 Dodge Challenger performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

Are there any fire risks with the 2020 Dodge Challenger?

There is one reported incident of a 2020 Dodge Challenger catching fire while operational, with the vehicle becoming engulfed in flames without warning. This is an isolated but severe complaint.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2020 Dodge Challenger boasts high crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the recall for windshield bonding and investigate if it has been addressed, as well as the reported critical electrical and power train issues.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Dodge Challenger

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Dodge Challenger. The data includes 19 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 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.