Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 2009 Dodge Challenger owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
Tl* the contact owned a 2009 Dodge Challenger. While driving 15 MPH, all the warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. In addition, the gauges displayed incorrect readings and the radio failed to function. The vehicle was taken to an auto part center, but was not diagnosed or repaired. Also, while driving 15 MPH, the vehicle stalled and the engine compartment caught fire. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire. A police report was filed. No injuries were sustained. The vehicle was towed from the scene to a salvage yard where it was completely destroyed. The manufacturer was not notified. The VIN was unavailable. The failure mileage was 135,000.
I brought my car 8 months ago and the delalership never told me about any of the four recalls I never received any papers in the mail concerning the recalls and that puts me and my children at risk everyday it's a scary feeling I also hit a tree that was in the middle of the street my steering g wheel was hard to control and my breaks as well
My 2009 Dodge Challenger r/t equipped with the automatic transmission started experiencing problems downshifting when approaching a stop. You wouldn't know until you press the gas to proceed down the road and barely move as the vehicle would be stuck in the highest gear. I would have to pull over, turn the vehicle off, and restart it to drive the vehicle. Luckily this didn't happen when trying to pull out into traffic as it would have a high tendency to create a collision. Transmission code for the input speed sensor and after researching it online, I found a mass number of complaints and repairs about this issue. It appears to be a mechanical defect that needs to be dealt with by FCA and NHTSA due to the common occurrence is these vehicles. Replacing the input speed sensor which is part of an electronic module cost approximately $500 and corrected the problem.
The vehicle caught on fire while driving. The fire started in the right front side of the engine compartment and quickly consumed the vehicle completely. The vehicle was not presenting any problems before the incident and no warning lights came on. The vehicle stalled and caught on fire. It was extremely difficult to come out of the vehicle. The estimated travel time before the accident was approximately 45 minutes. One important fact is that the vehicle received a service at the local dealership flagship Chrysler of toa baja pr 00949 under service order # 129395. The service included a 20 point inspection, the change of fluids to include transmission, differential, power steering, service the injectors, and efi throttle system. The dealership released the vehicle from the service department on 4 nov 2013 and caught on fire on 10 nov 2013.
I have had this car for 7 years and have only just turned it over 50K miles. Just recently the car started to make a whining noise the the battery warning light came on. After turning the car off and then back on the light turned off but would come back on after a few miles. Checked out where the noise was coming from and it was the alternator. I have noticed that the 160 amp alternator has been recalled on the 2011-12 3.5l engines for these cars. As I have the same alternator in my car. I was wondering if they are also being checked. This car is also a show car that has won 9 trophies and 4 medals, it is beyond belief that the alternator would fail so quickly for a car that is extremely well maintained. I drive this car at 4:30 a.m. To go to work and when the warning light comes on the headlights dim slightly.
This vehicle was in perfect operational conditions prior to the repairs regarding the Takata inflators. Immediately following this repair, I have replaced the battery on two separate occasions. A completely charged battery will discharge overnight. After a complete diagnostic evaluation by Dodge dealership, they found no problems with vehicle. In the 12-days following this diagnostic, I have charged the battery twice. I am really concerned that an electrical defect, as a result of the dealership repairs, May contribute to an electrical fire or a possible explosive concern. I am concerned for the safety of my self, as well as my family. This has been an on-going concern for approximately 6-months.
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Dodge Challenger. While parked, the no fob detected warning message illuminated. The failure recurred intermittently. The vehicle was taken to a dealer but it was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 500. ...updated 08/25/15 the consumer stated it was just not a no key fob warning message, the vehicle would not start or if she was outside of the vehicle, the doors would not unlock. Updated 09/08/15
I have experienced numerous breathing difficulties, I suspect have been caused by the air blowing out the vehicles ventilation system... I regularly develop chest pain in my breast area and migraine headaches after being in the vehicle for an extended period. I have reason to believe that the vehicle had been tampered with prior to my purchase . I've recently discovered false information related to the ownership of the car, through a carfax search
Vehicle stalls randomly while coming to a stop. Oil light illuminates car losses all power steering and breaking. This happens while driving straight or turning as well. Primarily while turning. This has happened to me on a city intersection and in my residential neighborhood. I am scared that I am going to wreck because of this and hurt myself or others.
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Dodge Challenger. While driving 80 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 80,250. Updated 11/29/16 the consumer also stated the vehicle would shut off in the midst of a turn and at start up. Updated 12/13/16.
Electrical complaints in other Challenger years
Frequently asked questions
How common are electrical problems on the 2009 Dodge Challenger?
NHTSA has 21 complaints about the electrical system of the 2009 Dodge Challenger, 16% of the model year's 133 complaints.
Is there a recall for 2009 Dodge Challenger electrical problems?
No. NHTSA lists no electrical system recall for the 2009 Dodge Challenger, though it has 7 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 2009 Dodge Challenger electrical problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 51,000 miles, and 22% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 1 crash, 3 fires and 1 injury to electrical system problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.