MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Dodge Charger

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Dodge Charger

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

2Recalls
31Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE DODGE CHARGER

The Dodge Charger is a full-size rear-wheel-drive sedan with a performance-first identity, targeting buyers who want muscle-car character in a four-door package. Sold in a wide range of trims from everyday commuter to track-ready variants, it competes in a shrinking but passionate segment. The Charger appeals to enthusiasts and families alike who refuse to sacrifice personality for practicality.

VERDICT

The 2021 Dodge Charger earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • families prioritizing rollover safety
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally celebrate the Charger for its bold styling, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and available high-output powertrains, calling it one of the last true American muscle sedans. Most acknowledge that its interior technology and some refinement details lag behind more modern competitors, but the consensus is that its driving character and practicality combination remain a distinctive and compelling package.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 10.1%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15496

Index breakdown

Crash protection65/70
Avoidance tech6/10
Defect record17/20
Forward collision warning: OptionalLane departure warning: OptionalStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR24V198000

Risk: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury or death.

Remedy: Dealers will replace both side curtain air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning February 20, 2025. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 19B.

Reported 2024-03-14

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD21V516000

Risk: A windshield that separates from the vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will remove and replace the front windshield urethane sealant, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 31, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y47.

Reported 2021-07-08

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

31 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

2reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsAir Bags 13Unknown Or Other 5Power Train 5Engine 3Visibility 2Exterior Lighting 2

Other Charger years

Rivals in Sedan (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15496), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Dodge Charger 2021. Class rank 45 of 94 in Sedan 2021. Methodology · Disclosure