2017 Dodge Charger Safety Report
2017 Dodge Charger: Strong Crash Ratings, but Persistent Electrical and Powertrain Complaints with Multiple Recalls
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Dodge Charger
Reliability Score
The 2017 Dodge Charger 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 2017 Dodge Charger
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Dodge Charger:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System Malfunctions Uconnect screen ghosting, random button presses, making calls, changing settings, and navigation inputs independently, posing a significant distraction and safety hazard. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Interior Door Panel Warping/Detachment Front door interior panels warp and detach from the door frame, potentially affecting door security and airbag deployment. |
Medium | Common | 20000-60000 miles |
| Cruise Control Unintended Acceleration Vehicle maintains speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate cruise control, increasing crash risk (subject of a recall). |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Front Driveshaft Issues (Awd Models) Front driveshaft universal joint seizure/fracture or loosening bolts, leading to detachment or loss of motive power, increasing crash risk (subject of two recalls). |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Engine Oil Cooler Hose Failure (Hellcat Models) Engine oil cooler hoses may fail, causing rapid oil loss, impairing visibility, and increasing crash/fire risk (subject of a recall). |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Transmission Failure/Slipping Complete transmission failure, slipping, or burning smell, leading to loss of power and requiring costly repairs. |
High | Occasional | 70000-90000 miles |
| Engine Ticking/Misfires Engine develops ticking, rattling, or thumping sounds, often accompanied by misfires (P0304 reported), indicating potential internal engine issues. |
Medium | Occasional | 70000-80000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Dodge Charger:
Frequent issues with the Uconnect infotainment system, including ghost touches, random button presses, and unintended calls. Also includes general electrical malfunctions like dashboard lights going blank while driving.
A significant number of complaints that don't fit neatly into other categories, often related to general vehicle malfunctions or issues not clearly identified by the complainant.
Warping and detachment of interior door panels, particularly the front doors, which can affect door security and potentially airbag function.
Problems with the transmission (slipping, failure) and driveshaft issues (detachment, loosening bolts), some of which are covered by recalls.
Reports of engine ticking, misfires, and oil leaks, including specific issues with oil cooler hoses on Hellcat models.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Dodge Charger
Is the 2017 Dodge Charger safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Dodge Charger received excellent crash test ratings, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has 125 total complaints, including 3 crashes, 3 fires, and 4 injuries, along with 4 safety recalls. While it performs well in controlled crash tests, real-world owner complaints highlight significant electrical, structural, and powertrain reliability concerns that could impact safety.
What are common problems with the 2017 Dodge Charger?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Dodge Charger are related to the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (18 complaints), often involving the Uconnect infotainment screen malfunctioning with ghost touches and unintended actions. 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (18 complaints) and 'STRUCTURE' (17 complaints), particularly warped interior door panels, are also very common. Powertrain issues (9 complaints) and engine problems (4 complaints) are also frequently cited, some of which are addressed by recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Dodge Charger?
Yes, the 2017 Dodge Charger has 4 safety recalls. These include recalls for the 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING' concerning cruise control that may not deactivate, 'POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT' for front driveshaft universal joint seizure/fracture on AWD V8 police vehicles, 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE' for Hellcat models regarding engine oil cooler hose failure, and 'POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT' for front driveshaft bolts loosening on AWD models.
How does the 2017 Dodge Charger perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Dodge Charger performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash protection, and 5 stars for both side crash protection and rollover resistance.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2017 Dodge Charger?
When considering a used 2017 Dodge Charger, pay close attention to the infotainment system for any erratic behavior, inspect interior door panels for warping or detachment, and listen for any unusual engine noises or transmission issues. Ensure all recall repairs have been completed, especially those related to the electrical system and powertrain, as these are common complaint areas.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2017 Dodge Charger has strong crash test ratings, be aware of persistent electrical system, structural, and powertrain complaints. Thoroughly inspect the infotainment system and interior panels, and verify all 4 recalls have been addressed before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Dodge Charger
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Dodge Charger. The data includes 125 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Dodge Charger 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 5 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.