2022 Dodge Challenger — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $26,000–$55,000. There are 2 high-severity known issues you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
A muscle car that doesn't pretend to be anything else. The 5.7L and 6.4L Hemis are proven; the 6.2L Hellcat makes 717 hp and will destroy whatever you don't maintain. Previous owners of Hellcats are your biggest concern.
Known Issues for the 2022 Dodge Challenger
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
A used Hellcat was almost certainly driven hard. The engine is strong but the drivetrain, tires, brakes, and suspension take punishment. Assume everything wearable was used at maximum.
Repair cost range: Variable — budget $2,000-$5,000 for worn items
The 5.7L Hemi with Multi-Displacement System has the same AFM lifter issue as GM V8s. Tick at startup is the warning.
Repair cost range: $2,000-$4,500
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Hellcat with any modifications — performance mods signal hard use
- ✗5.7L with engine tick at startup — MDS lifter failure
- ✗Aftermarket exhaust, tune, or pulley on a Hellcat — walk away or heavily discount
Good Signs
- ✓5.7L or 6.4L SCAT Pack with documented regular oil changes
- ✓Stock everything — unmodified Challengers are genuinely better used buys
- ✓MDS disabler installed on 5.7L
Found a specific Dodge Challenger?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2022 Dodge Challenger in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.
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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.
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