2019 Dodge Charger Safety Report

The 2019 Dodge Charger presents a mixed safety profile. While it achieved an excellent 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars in side and rollover tests and 4 stars in frontal crash tests, there are significant concerns highlighted by its recall history and consumer complaints. The vehicle has 5 recalls, with a prominent one (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V198000) addressing a critical issue with side curtain airbag inflators that may rupture and cause sharp metal fragments to strike occupants, potentially leading to injury or death. This recall is particularly concerning as multiple complaints indicate that the remedy part is unavailable, leaving owners at risk. Complaint data shows 118 total complaints, including 7 crashes, 3 fires, and 11 injuries, but no reported deaths. The most frequently reported component in complaints is 'AIR BAGS' with 42 instances, directly correlating with the major airbag recall. Other significant complaint areas include 'ENGINE' (8 complaints), 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING' (7 complaints), and 'SERVICE BRAKES' (7 complaints). Several complaints detail engine failures, issues with exterior lighting, and problems with the instrument cluster not displaying warnings, which is also covered by a recall. The recall history further underscores these issues, with recalls for the aforementioned airbag inflators, a backup camera malfunction in pursuit vehicles, an incompatible front wheel and brake package that could lead to tire contact with steering, missing airbag warning information on sun visors, and instrument cluster illumination failures. The high number of airbag-related complaints and the severity of the associated recall indicate a significant safety vulnerability that, for many owners, remains unaddressed due to part unavailability. While crash test performance is strong, the real-world complaint data and critical recalls suggest potential safety compromises.

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the critical, unaddressed airbag recall and numerous complaints, especially regarding engine and electrical issues. Verify all recalls have been completed before purchase, particularly the side curtain airbag inflator recall.