Buying a used Hemi Dodge Charger or Challenger is a goal for many automotive enthusiasts today. These 2023 and prior model year vehicles are spectacular Hemi cars. However, buying a used Hemi Dodge Charger or Challenger comes with significant financial risks. For instance, some owners report their cars running for hundreds of thousands of miles with minimal issues. In contrast, others face immediate, expensive engine rebuilds shortly after purchase. Therefore, if you plan on buying a used Hemi Dodge Charger or Challenger, you must perform serious due diligence.
Previous owners often rode these muscle cars hard and put them away wet. For example, drivers raced, rented, or used them in street takeovers. Consequently, finding a clean example requires looking past the shiny paint. If you are not careful, you might walk into a very expensive repair situation. However, if you follow five specific tips, you can find a cream puff that will last for years.
Potential Issues with 2023 Models
Surprisingly, even the newer 2023 models have potential flaws. In 2023, the manufacturer seemingly took shortcuts to get these performance cars to market. As a result, there are build quality issues you should inspect closely. For example, my own 2023 model had a loose starter.
Consequently, I had to push start the car for a week while waiting for repairs. In addition, the interior build quality showed weaknesses. Specifically, the glue on the door panel was not strong enough. As a result, the interior panel began coming apart. Furthermore, the replacement part has been on backorder for two years. Therefore, check the 2023 models carefully for these manufacturing oversights.
1. Analyze the Vehicle History Report
First, you must obtain a comprehensive vehicle history report like Carfax. This step is non-negotiable. For instance, verify that flood damage never occurred. In addition, look closely at the accident history. You need to know if the car suffered a rear-end collision, front-end impact, or a sideswipe.
More importantly, look for evidence of “curb hopping.” Sometimes, drivers lose control and slide over a curb. While they might get the car back on the road, there is often significant damage underneath. Unfortunately, you cannot see this damage without putting the car up on a rack. A reputable dealer might sell such a car hoping you never look underneath. However, once you drive away, that damage becomes your problem.
Additionally, examine the number of previous owners. A higher number of owners increases the risk significantly. For example, multiple owners often indicate people passed the car around for street takeovers. Ideally, look for a one-owner vehicle. Alternatively, a two-owner car is safer than one with four or five owners. Also, determine if the car was a prior lease. Generally, people do not take care of leases because they have no intention of keeping them. Finally, check the maintenance history to ensure regular service occurred.
2. Mechanical Condition and Transmission Checks
Second, investigate the mechanical condition and known model-specific issues. You can easily Google these problems. For instance, these Hemi cars have a history of transmission issues. Therefore, pay attention during your test drive. If you feel hard shifting, that is a major red flag.
Similarly, delayed gear engagement suggests a problem. Consequently, you might be staring down the barrel of a new transmission. These transmission issues often result from previous owners using launch control excessively. In addition, check the suspension components thoroughly. Look for worn control arms, tie rods, and suspension bushings.
Moreover, check the fluids immediately. Specifically, inspect the oil. Any dealer selling a car should have changed the oil before listing it. However, if the car sits on the lot with black oil, the dealer neglected it. This suggests the engine could be on the brink of failure. Finally, listen for strange noises. The “Hemi tick” is a known issue. Thus, listen to the car while it idles and under load. Put your head out the window while driving to hear any strange sounds. If it sounds wrong, run away.
3. Inspect for Signs of Hard Use
Third, you must inspect the car for signs of hard use. For example, if a previous owner lowered the car, a younger driver likely drove it aggressively. In addition, look for excessive tire wear. Specifically, bald rear tires indicate the previous owner did frequent burnouts and donuts.
While doing donuts is fun, avoid buying a car that someone abused this way. Furthermore, check the alignment. Misalignment often shows someone used the car on a track. Additionally, look closely for body damage. Take a friend with you to help search for dents and scratches. These imperfections show nobody cared for the car. If the previous owner ignored the exterior, they likely ignored the interior and mechanicals as well.
4. Verify All Recalls
Fourth, verify that a shop performed all recalls. This is crucial if you are buying from a private party or a non-Dodge dealership. Even at a Dodge dealership, confirm the service department finished the work. You do not want to chase down repairs later. Furthermore, ignoring recalls suggests the previous owner neglected the vehicle. Therefore, ensure the record is clean before you buy.
5. Engine Specific Considerations and Costs
Fifth, be aware of the specific engine considerations for the model you choose. For instance, a Scat Pack has different repair costs than a 5.7 RT. Additionally, the 5.7 Hemi might be more reliable than a 392 or a Hellcat. Ideally, understand that a Hellcat can cost significantly more to fix.
If you find a Hellcat for the price of a Scat Pack, be suspicious. A Hellcat supercharger is expensive to repair or replace. Moreover, owners often drive Hellcats much harder than other trims. Consequently, you may be walking into a very expensive repair process. If you buy a Hellcat, demand a one-owner history and a full Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI). You want the dealer to review all books and records. Otherwise, you might face a $10,000 repair bill shortly after purchase.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, buying an older Hemi car is a great idea if you are careful. These performance cars are amazing machines. However, the further back in model years you go, the more likely you will face issues. Therefore, do your homework and research thoroughly. Do not get caught up in the excitement of the moment. If you remain vigilant, you can find a good car that will last a long time.
