MODEL
Dodge Challenger
NHTSA safety across every Dodge Challenger model year we cover.
Across the 5 model years of the Dodge Challenger we cover (2019 to 2023), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 84 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 77. 10 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Dodge Challenger is a two-door rear-wheel-drive muscle coupe that has anchored the affordable American performance segment for well over a decade. Aimed squarely at driving enthusiasts who want old-school V8 character in a modern package, it competes against the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. Our 2019-2023 coverage captures the final generation of this iconic nameplate before Dodge retired the gas-powered model.
The Dodge Challenger earns a best NHTSA Safety Index of 84 out of 100 in its 2023 model year, placing it in the Strong band - a meaningful result for a platform rooted in traditional muscle-car architecture. Crash-test performance is genuinely mixed across the covered years. The side-impact rating is the standout, hitting a full 5 out of 5 stars, which reflects well on the Challenger's substantial body structure. Frontal and rollover protection land at 4 out of 5 stars, respectable numbers but not class-leading. The rollover figure is unsurprising given the Challenger's wide, low stance, but shoppers should still note it. Across 2019 through 2023, NHTSA records 10 recalls affecting this model - a count that is elevated and worth tracking carefully before purchase or during ownership. Owner complaints total 144 across the covered window, including 11 reported crashes and 5 reported fires. Those fire-related allegations, while unverified, deserve attention from any prospective buyer. Seven injury complaints round out a complaint profile that sits in Average territory for much of the model range. The honest bottom line: the Challenger's side-impact protection is genuinely strong, but the recall volume and fire-related complaint allegations mean a pre-purchase recall check through NHTSA.gov is not optional - it is essential.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Challenger for its distinctive styling, strong powertrain options, and driver engagement, positioning it as the most spacious and characterful choice in the muscle-coupe segment. Most acknowledge that the platform is aging and that the driving dynamics and technology lag behind more modern competitors, though they tend to view the overall package as a compelling value for enthusiasts.
- The 2023 Challenger earns an 84 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index in the Strong band, but earlier model years in our 2019-2023 window can fall into the Average band, so checking the specific model year you are shopping matters.
- Side-impact crash protection is the Challenger's clearest safety strength, rated 5 out of 5 stars in the best-tested year - a reassuring result for a two-door coupe in this segment.
- Ten recalls were issued across the 2019 to 2023 model years. Buyers should run the vehicle's VIN through NHTSA.gov before purchase to confirm all open recalls have been completed by the dealer.
- Owner complaints include 5 reported fire-related allegations across the covered years. These are unverified claims, but Dodge has historically issued fire-related recalls on performance models, so prospective buyers should review current recall status and monitor NHTSA for any new actions.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Dodge Challenger with 3 recalls.