2018 Dodge Charger engine problems
11 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2018 Dodge Charger — 9% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“My safety & the safety of others was at great risk while driving my 2018 dodge charger sxt. While driving my dashboard lights went completely dark and the steering wheel locked. I was unable to move out of lanes threatening my life and the life of others around me. Independent mechanic put scanner…”
filed Sep 22, 2024
“Engine: Timing chain, valve rocker arms and valve lifters. All in sequence once the rocker arms went out with the lifters which is a common problem with dodge 3.6L PenStar engine it made my timing chain go off timing causing my engine to shut off while driving. Lighting: When vehicle was purchased…”
filed Sep 24, 2023
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
Engine Oil Leak
S2509000009 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Oct 21, 2025
Engine problems in other Charger years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Charger | 5 | 19% |
| 2021 Charger | 3 | 9% |
| 2020 Charger | 6 | 11% |
| 2019 Charger | 10 | 8% |
| 2017 Charger | 18 | 14% |
| 2016 Charger | 25 | 14% |
| 2015 Charger | 23 | 17% |
| 2014 Charger | 61 | 18% |
| 2013 Charger | 50 | 14% |
| 2012 Charger | 94 | 15% |
| 2011 Charger | 77 | 11% |
| 2010 Charger | 48 | 21% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2018 Dodge Charger
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.