American muscle car icon with legendary V8 soundtrack and comfortable grand touring capability. The 5.7 HEMI is generally reliable but has known issues: lifter/cam failures (5% of engines, worsened by short trips and poor oil), timing chain guide failures on 2009-2012 with MDS, and exhaust manifold bolt breakage. Rocker panel rust from water-trapping foam is common after 5-8 years, especially in salt-belt climates. 2011-2013 models have alternator recall. Despite issues, many owners exceed 150,000 km with proper maintenance. Fuel economy is 10-13 L/100km highway with MDS active.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€1,750 - €3,100/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€900-1,500
Risk buffer
€850-1,600
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
HEMI lifter/camshaft failure€3,000 - €7,500
MDS lifter roller bearings fail, grinding into camshaft · more· less
Affects approximately 5% of HEMI engines. The Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters have inadequate lubrication - oil feeds backwards through the rocker shaft, and lifter bores only get oil when MDS is active. Needle bearings on lifter rollers fail, grinding into the cam lobe. Most common in vehicles with frequent idling, short trips under 2,000 rpm, or improper oil viscosity. Symptoms: ticking noise at idle, then P0300 misfire code. If code appears, stop driving immediately - continuing causes severe cam damage. Dealer repairs cost €5,500-7,500 including cam, all 16 lifters, pushrods, and labor (14-15 hours). Independent shops with upgraded "Hellcat" lifters cost €3,000-4,500. Non-MDS engines (2011-2018 heavy-duty trucks) also fail, proving it's not solely MDS-related but a fundamental lubrication design flaw.
Black plastic guide breaks, chain snaps, causing catastrophic engine damage · more· less
Recall affects 50,800 vehicles built August 2008 - July 2012 with 5.7L HEMI, automatic transmission, and 3.06/3.73/3.92 rear axle ratios. The black plastic timing chain guide fractures due to adverse interaction with MDS cylinder deactivation. Once broken, timing chain snaps within seconds. This is an interference engine - pistons hit valves immediately, causing €4,000-8,000+ damage. Recall replacement uses upgraded white plastic guide with aluminum reinforcing plate (same design as 6.4L). Verify recall completion with VIN before purchase. If guide hasn't been replaced on affected vehicles, demand it be done immediately - this is catastrophic failure waiting to happen.
Rocker panel rust from foam insulation€1,000 - €4,500
Factory foam traps water like sponge, causing severe rust after 5-8 years · more· less
Dodge injected sound-deadening foam into rocker panel cavities, creating a notorious rust problem. Foam absorbs water from road splash, car washes, and clip holes in plastic rocker covers. Rust bubbles appear just in front of rear wheels near rockers, typically after 5-year corrosion warranty expires. Most 2009-2010 models show severe rocker rust by 8-10 years. All Challengers except Demons have this foam. Repair requires cutting out rusted metal, forming new metal for proper rocker fit, rust treatment, bodywork, paint - costs €1,000-1,500 per side at independent shops. Dodge-recommended method (replace entire quarter panel) costs €4,000-4,500. Prevention: remove plastic fender well, pull out foam by hand, spray cavity with Fluid Film or Noxudol. European/Netherlands climate with road salt accelerates this dramatically.
Exhaust manifold bolt failure€400 - €1,300
Factory bolts break from heat cycles, causing "HEMI tick" exhaust leak · more· less
Very common issue often mistaken for lifter problems. Factory exhaust manifold bolts are inadequate for repeated thermal expansion/contraction. Bolts break, creating ticking/tapping noise and exhaust leak. If bolts break flush with cylinder head, extraction becomes difficult - requires drilling out or welder extraction method. Independent shop repairs with easy extraction: €400-600. Difficult extractions or dealer repairs: €900-1,300+. Some require full manifold replacement if badly warped (Dorman manifolds ~€500 pair). Labor typically 3-4 hours at independent shops, up to full day if multiple bolts snap flush. Use Remflex 6022 gaskets instead of OEM - they absorb expansion better, preventing future bolt breakage. This is inevitable on most HEMIs eventually.
Water pump failure€500 - €1,100
Bearing failure typically occurs around 80,000 km · more· less
5.7L HEMI water pumps commonly fail around 80,000 km, with many owners reporting multiple replacements by 150,000 km. The bearing inside the pump fails rather than the plastic impeller. Symptoms: coolant warning light, engine overheating, poor cabin heating, or coolant leak. OEM Mopar pump costs €220-260, quality aftermarket (Gates) costs €90-110. Labor is 3-4 hours due to accessibility, totaling €500-800 at independent shops, €900-1,100 at dealers. Always replace thermostat simultaneously as original often fails soon after pump replacement. This is a known weak point on 5.7L engines - budget for replacement every 80,000-100,000 km.
Rear differential whine/failure€800 - €3,000
Differential makes howling/whining noise, can fail catastrophically · more· less
Class action lawsuit affects 2015-2022 V8 Challengers (5.7L, 6.2L, 6.4L including Scat Pack, Hellcat). Differentials produce howling/whining/whirling sounds and vibrations, especially at highway speeds and during turns. Symptoms worsen over time. In severe cases, differential fails completely, causing sudden loss of power to rear wheels while driving - major safety hazard. Some units allegedly explode, sending shrapnel into undercarriage. FCA issued TSB 03-001-15 (2015 models) for rear halfshaft replacement, and TSB 03-004-16 (2016 models) for propeller shaft inspection. Few owners properly break in differential gears, combined with low factory fluid levels - causes premature wear. Changing to quality synthetic gear oil (Royal Purple 75/90) can reduce noise 80%. LSD clutch chatter often fixed with Mopar LSD additive. Full differential replacement under warranty is common. European shops charge €1,500-3,000 for differential rebuilds.
Control arm bushing wear€350 - €800
Bushings fail from vehicle weight and suspension geometry, common by 100,000 km · more· less
Multiple mechanics report upper and lower control arm bushing failure is very common on Challengers. The vehicle's weight (1,920 kg) and suspension geometry that uses bushing distortion for pivot angle changes cause premature wear. Symptoms: squeaking over bumps, knocking sounds, uneven tire wear, vehicle pulling to one side. Typically occurs approaching 100,000 km, but can happen as early as 65,000 km on aggressive drivers. Some bushings become "bound up" requiring loosening all suspension pivots on 4-post lift, bouncing car, then retightening to spec. Control arms should be replaced in pairs. Average cost €350-500 for bushings only, €650-800 for complete control arm assemblies with ball joints. Ball joints and tie rod ends often need replacement simultaneously. This is a consumable item on heavy Challengers - budget for replacement every 100,000 km.
Alternator failure (2011-2014)€700 - €1,000
Recall affects 160-amp alternators, catastrophic failure causes electrical fire risk · more· less
FCA recall P60/NHTSA 14V-634 affects 2011-2014 Challengers with 3.6L engine and 160-amp alternator. Defective alternators fail catastrophically, causing wire harness burns, TIPM (power module) damage, and in severe cases PCM damage and vehicle fires. Can result in complete electrical system failure including loss of braking, engine shutdown while driving. 2012 Challengers had 14 complaints averaging €710 repair at 80,000 km. 2011 models had 8 complaints averaging €580 at 82,000 km. Recall provides free complete alternator replacement. Verify recall completion on 2011-2014 models. Symptoms: dead battery, hard starting, dim/flickering lights, burning smell, whining noise, dashboard warnings. Non-recalled models: alternator replacement costs €700-900 at independent shops, €950-1,200 at dealers.
Uconnect screen bubbling/melting€200 - €600
8.4" touchscreen develops bubbles from heat, adhesive melts · more· less
Common issue especially in hot climates but also occurs in temperate zones. Air bubbles form under 8.4" Uconnect display, starting small then growing into many bubbles. Screen adhesive melts, creating sticky liquid that's difficult to clean. Dashboard above center vents can peel/warp from heat exposure. Climate control buttons can become sticky. Dealers classify climate control units as "non-repairable," quoting €500 for new unit. Uconnect screen replacement: €400-600 at dealers. Prevention: use reflective windshield sunshade when parked, crack windows, or use active vent systems in hot weather. This is particularly problematic for Challengers parked outdoors in summer. Netherlands climate less severe than southern Europe, but still occurs on cars parked in direct sun.
Reliable when maintained, but expensive repairs possible
The 5.7 HEMI is generally robust with many examples exceeding 200,000 km, but specific known issues require attention. Lifter failure affects only 5% of engines but is catastrophic when it occurs. 2009-2012 timing chain guide recall is critical. Rocker panel rust is nearly inevitable in European climates without preventive treatment. Budget for expensive repairs (cam/lifters, differential) over 10-year ownership. With proper maintenance, religious oil changes using correct 5W-20 synthetic, and avoiding excessive idling, this engine will last.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete records essential. Verify oil changes every 10,000 km maximum with correct 5W-20 synthetic oil. Frequent short trips require more frequent changes.
Cold start test
Engine must be completely cold (overnight). Listen carefully for first 60 seconds for any ticking, tapping, or rattling. This is critical for detecting lifter or timing chain issues.
Underbody inspection
Get car on lift. Check for rust, leaks, accident damage. Pay special attention to rocker panels.
Test drive minimum 30 minutes
Include city, highway, and hard acceleration. Listen for differential noise at highway speeds.
Tire condition
Check wear patterns, age date codes. Challenger eats rear tires with aggressive driving.
Specific for this vehicle
Cold start HEMI tick test
With engine completely cold, start and immediately listen. First 5 seconds: brief ticking is normal exhaust manifold expansion. Ticking lasting 10-60 seconds = timing chain tensioner losing pressure overnight (early warning). Loud rattling or grinding = lifter failure (do not buy). Test multiple cold starts over several days if possible.
Verify timing chain recall completed (2009-2012)
For 2009-2012 R/T with automatic transmission, check VIN at Mopar recall site or dealer. Recall P01 must show as completed. If not done, insist seller completes it before sale or walk away - this is catastrophic engine failure waiting to happen.
Inspect rocker panels for rust bubbles
Look carefully just in front of rear wheels along rocker panel seam. Even small paint bubbles indicate extensive hidden rust. Remove plastic rocker panel covers if possible - check metal underneath. If bubbles present, negotiate €1,500-2,000 off price minimum. In Netherlands salt climate, assume all 2008-2015 models need rocker repair unless proven otherwise.
Check for exhaust manifold bolt breakage
With engine running, listen for ticking/tapping that increases with RPM. Visually inspect manifold bolts with flashlight - look for missing bolts or black soot streaks indicating leaks. Check if any bolts have been previously replaced (shiny new bolts mixed with rusty old ones). This will need repair eventually - budget €500-800.
Rear differential noise test
On highway test drive at 100-120 km/h, listen for whining, howling, or humming from rear. Make slow tight turns in parking lot - listen for clunking or chattering. Any noise indicates worn differential - expensive repair. Check differential fluid - should be reddish and clean, not black or metallic. Dark fluid = worn gears.
Control arm and suspension play
Turn steering full lock both directions at standstill - listen for squeaking or clunking. Drive over speed bumps slowly - any rattling, knocking, or squeaking indicates worn bushings/ball joints. Grab front wheels at top/bottom and try rocking - any play = worn components. Check tire wear pattern for uneven wear indicating alignment issues from worn suspension.
Verify alternator recall (2011-2014)
For 2011-2014 models with 3.6L V6, check recall status. V8 models less affected but verify. Check battery voltage with multimeter: 13.5-14.5V running = good. Test all electrical: windows, locks, radio, HVAC, lights. Any electrical gremlins may indicate alternator or TIPM issues.
Uconnect and interior heat damage
Check 8.4" touchscreen for any bubbles, separation, or sticky residue. Test all screen functions. Check dashboard above vents for peeling or warping. Press all climate control buttons - any stickiness indicates heat degradation. Check door panels for separation. Ask if car was garaged or parked outdoors in sun.
Check for fluid leaks
With car on lift, inspect for oil leaks from valve covers, oil pan, rear main seal. Check coolant for leaks from water pump, radiator, hoses. Inspect transmission pan for leaks. Small seepage is normal on high-mileage cars, but active drips are concerning.
Check recall status at Mopar website or authorized FCA dealer using VIN. The timing chain guide recall (P01) is most critical - catastrophic engine failure occurs if guide breaks. Alternator recall (2011-2014) prevents electrical fires. All recall repairs are free regardless of ownership history.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years/60,000 km)Expired on all 2008-2021 models
Powertrain warranty (5 years/100,000 km)Expired on most used models
Corrosion warranty (5 years/unlimited km)Expired on 2008-2018 models
Extended warranty availabilityLimited in Europe for grey imports
Most used Challengers in Europe are grey imports without factory warranty coverage. Some European Mopar dealers may offer limited extended warranty plans, but coverage is restricted and expensive. Third-party mechanical breakdown insurance available from some providers, but typically excludes pre-existing conditions and known issues like lifter failures. Budget for out-of-pocket repairs. Note that corrosion warranty excludes rocker panel rust from foam insulation - this is considered "lack of maintenance" by Dodge despite being design flaw.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate and are based on Western European repair costs. Always have a qualified specialist familiar with American vehicles inspect the vehicle before purchase. Cost estimates assume parts availability - some HEMI-specific parts may have longer delivery times in Europe. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.