1
0
Large car; Built in Canada
  • 4-door sedan
  • longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $8,800 – $31,500*


2006 Dodge Charger


2006 Dodge Charger


2006 Dodge Charger


2006 Dodge Charger


2011 Dodge Charger Front


2011 Dodge Charger Rear


2011 Dodge Charger Interior


2011 Dodge Charger Rear-2


2011 Dodge Charger Front-2

Pros:
  • Control layout/materials
  • Front-seat passenger room and comfort
  • Ride
  • Steering/handling
Cons:
  • Fuel economy (R/T, SRT8)
  • Ride (SRT8, Road/Tract Performance Group)
  • Trunk opening

Dodge’s 2.7-liter V6 cannot move a car of this size with enough verve, but the 3.5 V6 is an acceptable performer, providing more than adequate power. Ditto the R/T’s Hemi V8, while the SRT8 is a true “muscle car.” Passenger space, available AWD, and solid construction inside and out make nearly any Charger an outstanding value. Charger trades the Magnum’s wagon functionality and rear-seat space for a sedan body and rakish roofline, but the two share basic Best Buy virtues.

Overview

Dodge revived a name from the past for a sedan companion to its Magnum wagon, which had debuted as a 2005 model. At the same time, for 2006, the company added high-performance versions of both cars.

Both models shared their underskin design with the Chrysler 300 sedan, but Charger was available only with rear-wheel drive versus Magnum’s choice of rear-drive or all-wheel drive. Like the Magnum, the Charger seated five and could have either V6 or V8 power.

Chargers came in three models: SE with a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6; R/T with Chrysler’s 340-horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi V8; and high-performance SRT8, with a 425-hp 6.1-liter version of the Hemi V8. The 5.7 V8 had Chrysler’s Multi-Displacement System, which deactivated four cylinders under light throttle conditions to save fuel. All Chargers had an automatic transmission: a four-speed with the V6 and a five-speed on other versions. Magnums also were available with a 2.7-liter V6, but that engine did not go into Chargers.

Antilocking four-wheel disc brakes were standard, along with antiskid/traction control. Available but not standard on all were front side airbags and front/rear head-protecting curtain side airbags. SE models had 17-inch wheels; 18-inchers were optional on the SE and standard on every other model except the SRT8s, which rode on 20-inch rubber.

Charger R/T and SRT8 models added firmer suspension tuning. SRT8s also had Brembo-brand brakes, plus special seats and trim.

Split folding rear seatbacks were standard on all except Charger SEs. Leather upholstery was standard on R/T and SRT8 models, optional on SE. Available were adjustable pedals, satellite radio, and Chrysler’s UConnect hands-free wireless cell phone link. Available for Charger R/T was the Road/Track Performance Group with special suspension tuning and a 350-hp version of the 5.7 V8. A Daytona R/T Package, with the same engine, added throatier exhaust tuning and unique trim.

Dodge’s Charger competed against the Chrysler 300, Ford Five Hundred, and Ford Freestyle.

Yearly Updates

2007 Charger
All-wheel-drive models joined the Charger lineup for 2007, in SXT and R/T trim. Dodge now offered a 2.7-liter V6 engine with four-speed automatic, in the Charger SE sedan. Meanwhile, the 3.5-liter V6 switched from a four-speed automatic to a five-speed transmission. ABS and traction/antiskid control were optional for the SE, standard on others. Curtain airbags were available for all models. AWD SXT, R/T, and SRT8 models had firmer suspension tuning.
2008 Charger
The 2008 Dodge Charger sedan got a mildly freshened interior with a subtly redesigned dashboard and revised interior trim.
2009 Charger
Charger ‘s 5.7-liter Hemi V8 gained 40 hp to 370, and newly optional was Chrysler’s uconnect multimedia suite, which could include a wireless cell-phone link, 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital music and picture files, and a navigation system with real-time traffic information. Charger’s station-wagon sibling, the Magnum , was dropped for ’09.
2010 Charger
The 2010 Dodge Charger saw no major changes.

Engines

longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive

Chargers came in three flavors: SE with a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6; R/T with a 340-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8; and high-performance SRT8, carrying a 425-hp 6.1-liter Hemi V8. The Hemi V8 incorporated Chrysler’s Multi-Displacement System, which deactivated four cylinders under light throttle conditions to save fuel. The Road/Track Performance Group gave the R/T 350 horsepower, as did the Daytona option. All Chargers had automatic transmissions: four-speed with the V6, or five-speed with V8 power. The 3.5-liter V6 switched to a five-speed for 2007. A 2.7-liter V6, offered all along in Dodge’s Magnum wagon, became available later in the Charger SE. All 2006 Chargers were rear-drive, but all-wheel drive became available for 2007.

dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 2.7/167
Engine HP 190
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 190
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic

 21/28
ohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.5/215
Engine HP 250
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 250
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic
5-speed automatic 		19/27
19/27 		21.6
ohv V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 5.7/345
Engine HP 340-350
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 390
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
5-speed automatic

 17/25
ohv V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 6.1/370
Engine HP 425
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 420
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
5-speed automatic

 14/20

Road Test

Acceleration is acceptable with V6 power, and energetic with the Hemi V8. The 3.5 V6 feels responsive enough around town, and has good passing punch; Dodge claimed 9.3 seconds for 0-60 mph acceleration in rear-wheel drive models. The AWD SXT feels little different. A test Magnum R/T did 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, with ready muscle for any speed; Charger’s R/T should do likewise. The Hemi 5.7 V8’s Multi Displacement System switches between four and eight cylinders without interrupting power delivery, though some testers detected slight drivetrain shudder as it activated/deactivated. Slight power boost from Charger Daytona R/T package is undetectable. Dodge said SRT8 models did 0-60 mph in the low-5-second range; their willing power makes them bona fide “muscle cars.” Hemi V8 models can tow up to 3800 pounds.

Fuel economy is satisfactory with a V6, less so with V8s. Test V6 Chargers have averaged 17.9 to 21.6 mpg. An extended-use Charger SE (with SXT package) averaged 19.4 mpg. A test Charger R/T averaged just 14.6 mpg in almost exclusively city driving. Other rear-drive Charger/Magnum R/Ts averaged 15.9 mpg in mostly city driving, 18.4 mpg with more highway work. SRT8s averaged 14.3 to 16.9 mpg in mostly highway driving. Dodge recommends 87-octane fuel for the 2.7 V6, 91-octane for the 6.1-liter V8, and 89-octane for other engines.

Ride comfort differs little between Charger/Magnum and the more luxurious Chrysler 300. The Charger’s ride is generally smooth and composed, but rippled pavement can trigger annoying jiggling, especially in V8 models with their firmer suspensions. SRT8 and Road/Track Performance Group sedans are even stiffer, but never punishing. Early models tested suffered unwanted float over highway-speed dips and swells.

In steering/handling, too, little difference is evident between comparable Charger/Magnum and Chrysler 300 models. Linear steering produces good road feel. Stable at highway speeds, Chargers are not as agile as similarly-sized European sport sedans in quick changes of direction, but provide fine balance and grip in turns. Expect confident stopping power, but some testers have complained of long pedal travel. Test rear-drive models negotiated rainy roads without undue slip, but an extended-use rear-drive Magnum R/T wagon proved difficult to maneuver in six inches of fresh snow, despite traction control and all-season tires. Available AWD is the recommended solution for all-weather traction.

Noticeable roar emanates from V6s during acceleration. V8s emit a throaty full-throttle growl, and SRT8s sound like racecars–but they’re quiet enough in gentle cruising. R/Ts have more tire roar than other Chargers. Wind rush is evident at highway speeds. Charger’s Daytona R/T package includes aggressive-sounding performance exhaust tuning that some testers found tiresome on long trips.

Instruments are large and easy to read, but Charger’s steering-wheel rim can cut into the view of turn-signal arrows and gauges for fuel and temperature. Most controls are within easy reach, though some are mounted too low to adjust easily while driving. Dodge’s navigation system is simpler than most to operate. Interior materials are a slight grade below Chrysler’s 300, but feel solid enough, with a nice array of padded panels–entirely appropriate for this price level.

Chargers are spacious inside, starting with ample front head and legroom. Generously-sized seats have flat cushions that may allow occupants to slide during aggressive cornering. The SRT8, Charger Daytona, and Charger R/T with Road/Track Performance package address this dilemma with sport buckets. Thick front roof pillars block some drivers’ views to front corners. AWD versions have a slightly narrower passenger footwell. SRT8 seats offer good lateral support and outstanding comfort. Rear entry/exit is easy, and two passengers get great room in the back seat. Leg/toe space is plentiful, even with front seats pushed well back, but headroom is tight for passengers over six feet tall. Thigh support is sufficient for long-trip comfort, but the middle rider must straddle an intrusive driveline hump.

Although the Charger’s trunk is usefully sized and shaped, its opening is among the smallest in this class, making it difficult to load bulky objects. Available split folding 60/40 rear seatbacks are a boon for large-item storage, though they do not lay completely flat.

Ratings

Model Tested: Dodge Charger SE w/SXT package

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 6
60%
Fuel Economy - 5
50%
Ride Quality - 7
70%
Steering/Handling - 6
60%
Quietness - 6
60%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 7
70%
Room/Comfort Front - 7
70%
Room/Comfort Rear - 6
60%
Cargo Room - 5
50%

Other

Value - 10
100%

Total: 65

Specifications

4-door sedan
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
120.0 200.1 74.5 58.2
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
16.2 18.0 5
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
38.7 36.2 41.8 40.2
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2006 Charger 4-door sedan

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Front Passenger Injury - 5
100%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 4
80%
Rear Passenger Injury - 5
100%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Water leak
Description: Water on the front floor may be due to a leak in the cowl that was not properly sealed at the factory. (2006-07)
Water leak
Description: The front floor may get wet due to a water leak in a cowl seam near the hood hinge(s). (2006-07)
Water leak
Description: The front floor may get wet due to a water leak in a cowl seam near the hood hinge(s). (2006-07)
Windows
Description: The express up feature of the power windows may stop working due to defective window modules in the doors. (2005-07)
Windows
Description: The express up feature of the power windows may stop working due to defective window modules in the doors. (2005-07)
Electrical problem
Description: If the radio is fine with the engine off, but quits after cranking, the radio software must be flashed (reprogrammed). (2006)
Electrical problem
Description: The oil warning light may come on or flicker due to its wire chaffing on the air conditioner compressor pulley on the 3.5L engine
. (2007)
Electrical problem
Description: Trip-B may not set with the button requiring reflashing of the cabin control node. (2009)
None
Description: A broken or scratched rear defroster grid line (or aftermarket tint) results in poor radio reception. (2005-07)
Transmission problems
Description: The 5.7L V8 engine may run rough at idle because cylinder deactivation is engaged requiring reflashing the engine control module and transmission control module.
Check-engine light
Description: Rocking the car to get it free from snow, without touching the brake between shifts, triggers the check engine light. Also, the engine may not crank for a few seconds when the key is turned to the start position. For both conditions, there is a flash (reprogram) available for the powertrain control module. (2005-06)
Fueling problems
Description: The vehicle may be hard to fill because the nozzle shuts off repeatedly unless an improved fuel vapor tube is installed. (2005-09)

Recall History

2006 w/42RLE automatic transmission
Description: Cup plug that retains park pawl anchor shaft may be improperly installed, which could prevent vehicle from going into “Park” position.
2006 w/2.7-liter engine and MK25E braking system
Description: May be inadequate clearance between rear brake tubes and EGR tube; contact over extended period could cause brake tubes to wear through, resulting in fluid leakage.
2006-09 Police package models w/column shifter
Description: The gear shift cable in these vehicles may disengage and cause an incorrect transmission gearshift position display. Dealers will add a redundant locking mechanism to the gearshift cable at the mounting bracket to ensure proper retention and shift linkage function.
2007 Charger w/automatic
Description: Software in powertrain control module could cause momentary lock-up of drive wheels if traveling over 40 mph, if operator shifted from Drive to Neutral and back to Drive. If the drive wheels locked up, loss of vehicle control could occur. Dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module free of charge.
2007
Description: ABS control module software may cause rear brakes to lock-up during certain braking conditions.
2007
Description: The antilock brake system control module software may cause the rear brakes to lock up during certain braking conditions. This could result in a loss of vehicle control and cause a crash without warning. Dealers will reprogram the ABS electronic control unit.
2008
Description: Improperly manufactured rear axle hub nuts could loosen, causing the vehicle to lose power and result in a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the rear axle hub nuts.
2009
Description: The tire pressure monitor sensors may not transmit the actual tire pressure. This could result in the driver not being aware of low tire pressure. Dealers will replace the TPM sensors.
2010
Description: These vehicles may have been built with a wireless ignition node (WIN) module exhibiting a binding condition of the solenoid latch. The result of the defect could lead to a condition where the key may be removed from the ignition switch (WIN module) prior to placing the shifter in park. This could result in the potential for unintended vehicle movement and could increase the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect and replace the WIN module free of charge.
2010 Charger (LX)
Description: Some of these vehicles may experience a separation at the crimped end of the power steering pressure hose assembly. Leaked power steering fluid onto hot engine components could cause a fire. Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary the power steering pressure hoses free of charge.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on July 2, 2014.
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