Used 2006 Dodge Charger Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
My Review would have been better 1 year ago!
One year ago I thought I really loved my Dodge Charger with the Hemi engine. The navigation system was cumbersome and outdated, but I loved it anyways. Then June of 2015 out of nowhere I am driving and I see smoke coming out from under the hood. I immediately pulled over and opened the hood, smoke bellowed out. I had the car towed to the dealer and I was told a piston ceased and I needed a new engine. I was quoted $7k for a rebuilt with warranty and $3200 for a used engine. That just makes me mad! I took care of my car, why did the engine fail. The mileage is 120,000, I was hoping to drive it a few more years. Researching online I found several owner complaints of the 2006 Dodge Charger engine failure, all with similar experiences. The forums are saying that the engine design has caused premature engine failures. Nice. So I contacted Chrysler directly as my extended warranty was through a year prior. I was told that there is nothing they can or will do for me, they said it is unfortunate that it happened, but oh well. Anyone who is looking to buy a Dodge Charger should check out the online reviews and never purchase one without an extended warranty and unless you are a car enthusiast or mechanic, sell the car before the warranty is up! And so much for customer appreciation.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
06 Dodge Charger SXT
This car drives great and I have the SXT trim level. The 3.5 engine is plenty of power for most people and still have fun. The tie rods wore out a little early at 45,000 miles. All in all I love this car!
- RT SedanMSRP: $10,343564 mi away
- RT SedanMSRP: $7,900618 mi away
- SRT-8 SedanMSRP: $21,990622 mi away
No a Sports Car
Since I have the Charger, people ask me "And it's fast, isn't it?" Well, it's not slow, but its 4100+ pounds take some time to get moving. 0-60 in 5 seconds according to various reviews. A sporty car, not a sports car. My 349HP MB SLK32 is a sports car. Lousy gas mileage (as expected). Nice interior. Stereo (mine has the high-end one) a bit disappointing due to some lack in bass. Seats not fully leather, but then again this is a under $40k car. Some people think the windows are too small, I don't. No idea what the stability control is there for, mine never seems to kick in. Comfortable ride. Too long to fit in my garage with the motorcycle (I traded this for a KIA Sorento which did fit).
Daytona, yes!
Of all the cars I have owned and purchased new, this car has given me the most pleasure of them all. I still don't know if I am more impressed with the power or the amount of features that are available for this car.The nav will get you just about to the front door of where you are going and the sound system upgrade was well worth it. The heated seats warm up very fast on the cold nights. I am impressed with how smooth the transmission shifts also. My daughter is just upset that she has no heated seat in the back for her. Heck, with the leg room and video system I don't mind sitting back there.
Very "ticked off!"
I've owned My Charger now for 4 1/2 yrs, and almost have it paid off. this is the first car I've ever bought brand new. I have never had any problems with this car until the basic warranty ran out. I only have 41,000 miles on it, and developed a "ticking" sound coming form the driver's side of the engine. I brought it in to the dealership, had a diagnostic, and was told that The "rocker arms" on both Left & right sides need to be replaced, with a cost of $800.00 for parts and $1000.00 for labor, AND the "tension struts" needed to be replaced as well! for another $1300.00!!! after reading some of these other consumer reviews, many others have had this problem as well, at low mileage! Recall!
Loved this car
This was an awesome car. The car just got traded in with 178k miles! Spent a few thousand on maintenance over the years (alternator, brakes, suspension work, sensors) but nothing too crazy. Just needed something more reliable as other stuff was starting to go out. The NAV/ stereo went out a few years ago & there were some other minor problems , but was getting concerned about bigger problems starting to happen. Motor & transmission were fine. Had the Hemi V8 R/T and the car was SO comfortable and nice. It will be missed a lot.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Fun but many drawbacks
I have had this vehicle for over two years now and drive it consistently. Be prepared to buy brakes and rotors on a constant basis. Look up this issue on the internet. Dodge put small, two piston calipers on a 4000 # car, causing it to warp rotors at a rapid rate unless you buy top of the line pads and replacement rotors. The lug nut design is set up in a way that you have to hammer a socket onto the caps to get them off, destroying them in the process. Once they're all off, you can remove the lug nuts, then the tire. So good luck if you get a flat and have to change it. It is an extra $38 every time my tires come off because I have to replace the caps. The car could have a lot of power, but the computer takes over and effectively destroys any throttle response. When shifting into Drive, if you step on the gas the vehicle will literally sit and do nothing for two seconds, then all of a sudden decide to go somewhere. All in all, the vehicle is fun to drive for a short time, but get rid of it before 80k miles when things begin to break. From 90k miles to 100k, I lost my A/C compressor, several dash and knob lights, CD player and oil sender unit. UPDATE I have just hit 150k miles. The engine is very solid and has not let me down yet. Unfortunately, several design flaws, most of which listed above, have cost me some money. All of the issues can be fixed by replacing the stock parts with better versions, such as the rotors, shift lock lever and head unit/CD player. But why should I have to do that? Again, I cannot say enough about the 5.7 HEMI and transmission. They have both withstood my driving, which is saying something.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2006 Dodge SRT8
This is one of the finest cars I have ever purchased. It has a great ride and great feel to the road. The fuel consumption is actually pretty good considering the horsepower this car develops. I've taken it on one trip and got an average of 21.7 mpg. Please note that 98% was freeway driving at 68 to 72 mph. This car is a great value for its price.
Not just for men
I thought I would never get rid of my minivan that I loved since I have 2 boys both over 6'3 and play sports but could not turn away from the Charger. Boy were they glad! Nothing has made everyone from Dad to the youngest son happier than to have a cool car to have mom drive you around in, and nothing has made me happier than to have a car I can count on. Somehow when I drive it I can get 20-21 mpg but when Dad decides to drive it goes to 14 mpg. No problem, we both enjoy it, just for different reasons. I have added 22" wheels and a pinstripe to accent the rear wheel well. Just a little to make it different. We can all take a ride it this bad boy together and no one minds at all.
Dream car turned worst nightmare!
I started having issues with my charger 1 year after I purchased, first my driver side window and door locking switches fell down in the door panel, then at 23,000 miles the car really fell apart. First I started to hear a loud noise while the air conditioner was on, then as I was in stop and go traffic when my air is on my car overheats, then I noticed a delay when trying to start the vehicle, then all my air vents popped off the dash. Now at 24,000 miles my shifter locked up in the park position of coarse just after the 3 year warranty has expired. The only assistance dodge will offer is an extended warranty for $1400.00 for 50% off parts and labor.
Excellent car!
I had never owned a Dodge product prior to this, was always a Chevy guy. This car takes the cake. A rear drive, powerful, affordable car! I had a small transmission fluid leak at approx 29,000, but that was a seal. Fuel mileage is very respectable for a car with almost 400 hp. Seats are quite comfortable. Took the car on a 4000 mile road trip with my then 13 yr tall son and dad. Everyone stayed comfortable. I have not seen the tire problems listed w what seem to be the SE Chargers. Stereo very nice. I have a K&N filter, and a part of flowmasters for exhaust (so it's not quiet any more). Paint has held up very well. In snow this is a little tricky to drive. All in all I love this car.
2006 Dodge Charger RT Hemi
Will put any car on the road today to shame. Excellent handling, more power than you can imagine, runs circles around the 'stang... Very well crafted and fun to drive. Handles the road better than any car I've owned or seen in along time. This is the one car you'll brag about for years to come...
well, it Looks Cool! But Eh...
It looks good, it feels good. So good!.until you let the charger run at idle for 10 minutes in your drive way, and bye bye sweet machine. i have an 06' charger R/T. At 92,000 miles(always babied) my radiator fans failed, causing the motor to heat up so quickly at idle it dropped not one, but two valve seats,Quickly destroying all that was my HEMI. $4,000 later, i'm still having issues with sticky lifters, my flex disk in the rear end snapped, new tie rod needed in the front, starter is bad. Disappointing seeing that Dodge has always been a favorite for me. Just be cautious if you purchase one. I know ever car is different(even being the same model)but still..beware code P0300! Random Misfire
Charger SRT 8
I have owned the car for just three weeks and so far it is fantastic. The ride is good for a performance car and the performance is excellent. I had a 69 Hemi Charger and this car is far superior in most respects. I have an on board performance computer and the car has run 0-60 in 4.8 sec and the 1/4 mile in 12.9 sec. It is a great value for the price.
Great Car
What a fun car to drive. Good milaege also. While cruising 55 to 60 mph no problem seeing 28 mpg with the 350 hp Hemi
3.5
I've owned the 3.5 for almost eight years, I'm over 130,000 miles and I have no complaints. I drove this thing hard and put it away wet almost every day of those eight years and it wasn't until 120,000 that I had a problem, a broken tie rod which was the result of my bad driving. I can't speak for the hemi, but the 3.5 has been reliable for me. My only complaint about the 3.5 is the mileage, it's a pig. Other than that, I love my car, it's reliable, smooth driving and easy handling, quick, comfortable. I plan on replacing it with another 3.5 when the time comes.
Dodge Charger Daytona R/T #1937
I own a 2006 Dodge Daytona with 78000 miles on the odometer and it still runs perfect !! Using the slapstick auto will save on rotors. I have only changed them once. A/C blows ICE COLD air and heater and seat warmers heat me up in no times. Adding K@N cold air intake and FLOwmaster gives me 20 mpg in town. Not bad for a HEMI. Dodge did well with this car and looking forward to getting a Challenger down the road. Glad I opted for the V-8 as opposed to the V-6 Charger. Best car I have ever owned .
My Baby
First off I love this car to death. Unfortunately it has left me with a hunger for something even faster...Why?...Why NOT?!! They are very fast, too fast to let the wife drive it in fact. They are VERY customizable...take a look at the Diablo Tuner, CIA and GetRag rearends...cheap upgrades and you can take SRT8's especially after a custom tune. I have a fair amount done to mine and I dont know why people are complaining about the MPG. I figure Im turning nearly 400HP at the crank now and can STILL get 25-26MPG out of her with the MDS still active (you can shut it off with the Diablo if you want). No problems with it at all...None, its kinda strange not to have problems.
glad I took the chance
After spending my life going with Camrys, Accords, and other so thought quality mid sized clone cars I took a shot with this car when it first came out in 2006. It was only 1500 more then the accord I was looking at, at the time. This car is a lot more comfortable and a lot more fun to drive then the array of Asian cone cars out there. Its paid for now and I don't know what I am going to do if I ever have to go back to the cars we have been taught to believe are better quality. This car for me proves that to be totally the opposite in fact. 5 years and 80k miles later it is "by far" the best quality car I have ever owned. (Yes BMWs and Mercs are out of my price range)
2006 Charger R/T Riddled with Problems
Poor build quality. There was a recall for the shifter assembly that my vehicle was not a part of, that I had to pay out of pocket. Terrible Chrysler customer service. Constant rattle in the front end that the dealer could not resolve. Terrible ride over broken pavement. HVAC never worked properly and it developed a fan rattle in the dash. Parking break never worked. Dodge could not fix. The battery for the car is a M. Benz marine battery and hard to locate. This car was my first and LAST Chrysler product. Never again.
Very disappointing
My wife and I are very disappointed with our "dream" car. It's in the shop every month , even now over Christmas (10 days) and have hardly driven it for we have lost confidence in it. It was not worth the $30,000 price to sit in our yard leaking oil along with a dead battery. I think a Buick Lucerne would have been a better choice.
dont get rear ended in this car!!!!!!!!
my father was in an accident in this car. he was on the highway in kentucky and some lady on her cell phone smacked into the dead center of the back end at 70 mph. needless to say the car was totaled, however this car burst into flames immediately! reason... not the speed or force... but the fact that dodge decided to put a battery right on top of the fuel tank!!seriously?? the highway patrol said the only reason he is still alive is because he had a FULL tank of gas. sound strange? yes. but the fact is there was no oxygen in the tank to ignite an instant explosion. if there had been 1/2 or even 3/4 a tank he would have been killed instantly... hey dodge,,, think it's time for a recall?????
NEW TIE RODS @ 40,000 miles
go have your tie rod end replaced as soon as possible we were on the road doing 55 when the tie rod broke we are so lucky to be alive. My charger everyone is a 2008 with 40,000 miles on it it is time we do something about this issue. I will be going public everywhere about this till Dodge recalls them.
Love this car!
Wanted a reliable used car that was fun to drive. Found the "Top Banana" and fell in love. Great look. The car is comfortable and fun to drive. The power is what makes me smile every time I get in this car. The sound when you touch the gas; the power that you FEEL when you hit the pedal. I debated with my wife about getting a Mustang. I am so glad I listened to her. This is truly a fun car. The attention that it gets from people that pass by isn't bad either.
Great car,/poor workmanship with motor
I believe I was ripped off from the start. I paid 42,000 for my car in 2006. One of the salesman had been driving g it back and forth home before I bought it. I had it for seven years and the motor acted up. I took it to the dealership and they charged me 400 dollars to tears down theotor to find the problem. I was told that a part of the feul injector broke off and fell down in the cylinder and scratched it up real bad. It was sounding like a truck with lou d pipes. I think that everybody that bought a 2006 dodge charger, that had problems with the hemi motor, the shift, and the tie rod ends should sue the makers of the hemi motors for all the troubles, and for being falsely mislead about the 2006 dodge charger.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Best car yet for me
I have had many new vehicles in the past including 1987 Buick Grand National, 1995 Impala SS, 1996 Mercedes Benz E300D, 1998 Mercedes C280 Sport, 2005 Subaru WRX STi. The SRT8 Charger I can honestly say delivers the best driving experience to date. The highway ride is outstanding, the brakes are beyond reproach and Dodge has the balls to not govern the top speed on this rocketship. (Unlike almost every other manufacturer). The fit/finish is very good and although it is a fairly heavy car the 425HP SRT8 engine makes every trip enjoyable. I highly recommend this vehicle.
Awsome Machine by Dodge
I wanted one of these cars and finally found the right one. It is a thrill to drive and very popular with the family. Dodge has done it ! I've had Challengers, Cudas and others and this awsome ride surpasses them all. All I can say is " Hemi baby " and I have always loved the 383 engine.
Very Satisfied
I have been captivated by the new Charger since first seeing them as the new county sheriff vehicles, in November I fulfilled my dream and bought one. Great car to own and drive, especially with the Hemi. Everyone at work just drools.
Top Banana! Great Car
The Daytona, Top Banana Charger is a great car. It holds the road like glue. It makes driving fun. If we could only get rid of speed limits
Phenomenal Value
I rented the V6 and immediately noticed the comfortable ride, spacious interior, and well designed exterior. The SRT8 adds power that will push you back in your seat, extremely sporty and comfortable seats, and many options that you wouldn't expect from a sports car. I wanted a sports car but needed a family car. This gave me the look, feel, sound, and performance of a sports car with the room and convinience of a family car.
Best Dodge ever owned
Every time I drive my Charger,if feels like the first time. This car has a awesome ride. The transmission is one of the smoothest I ever had. The doors are solid when you close them. The 3.5 is very powerful for A V6, and my mileage has been around 20 in the city, which is great for a car this heavy. I have bought Chrysler products most of my life, and will say this is the best so far.
Performance with style
I have had this car for a week now and each day I'm more impressed. The exhaust is just noticable at idle and just loud enough when you step on it to make you smile. This car performs as a modern day muscle car should...Fast and smooth. I was looking at the RT and Daytona and am thrilled I waited for the SRT-8. The BEST performance value on the market!
Sold
I'm not used to catching people's eyes just driving down the road. The aggressive looks of this car still get me to double take after I park it. Everything about the Charger adds up to a fun, impressive, luxurious ride where the only downside is your friends always want you to drive when you go anywhere! Seriously, I can't see myself buying a different car after this. The Beemers and Benzes my friends drive don't measure up to the affordability, style, and mean power they find in my Charger. I don't mind driving them.
Serious service issue
I love this car and it is a pleasure to drive it until it shreds my tires because of front end vibration which cannot or will not be repaired by the dealership. Tires have had to be replaced 3 times in 40,000 miles because of this recurring issue. Looking for other owners with same problem for possible resolution with manufacturer.
SRT8 is one badboy!
Most cars are referred to as "she". This car is just too tough to be a "she". I have owned several sports cars in my life, a Corvette, Camaro, two Mustangs, and a Crossfire. I never thought I would like this car so much! My husband is in the car biz, so when he brought this one home for me to test out, I was not impressed by the looks too much (the whole four door thing kinda wasn't my style). I drove it for a few days anyway. Wow, was I ever shocked. This car is by far the most fun car I have ever driven. It looks tough, sounds tough, and it is tough! I can't even go to the grocery store without some punk trying to race. Even more fun when someone doesn't know the power and cuts me off.
Is this really a Dodge???
I really like the car as a whole, especially the performance.It draws attention everywhere it goes. It is very fast and handles well for such a large car (German influence). The performance is equal to the looks.
Tie Rods and Tires
The car is nice to drive, but has had numerous service issues. From day 1, there was a front tire thumping/noise issue that was never resolved even after 6 visits to 3 different dealerships. They never found anything. At 31,000 miles, a front tire blowout caused from excessive wear. Replaced all 4 tires with Coopers. After only 17,000 miles on these, they are showing the same wear patterns. Now, the front tie rods and control arms need replacing at a cost of $970! This car costs too much in maintenance to keep.
Finally
The 2006 Dodge Charger is finally the car Americans fell in love with 40 years ago.Front wheel drive has its place, but true American muscle requires RWD.This car is a hit. It is what Americans do best. The industry will spend 5 years catching up to this superior design, and when they do, Dodge will introduce the next generation. Finally, a car that in 5 years, I won't worry about trade in value(although I suspect it will be strong)because I'll keep it for the next generation of drivers in the family. Safe,affordable, great looking, roomy, comfortable, and a blast to drive.
Rock on Charger
I purchased a Charger SRT8 and paid a mark up because I wanted it and I wanted it now!!! It has amazing power. I particularly liked the SRT8 because of the amount of interior space. It is nice to have a car with great looks, speed and comfort for 4-5 adults. Lot of people are speechless when they see the car and even more when they look under the hood at the 6.1 liter bundle of joy. I got all the SRT packages and they are worth it. The navigation system is easy to use as are all of the onbourd computer systems. All in all, worth every penny. So happy I have mine.
Charger SRT 8
Just got the car and drove it about 500 miles in 3 days. I traded a Corvette for this car and am VERY happy I did. This car has more power, better transmission (5 speed auto), and a very easy to use navigation system. This is the best car I have ever purchased.
Dodge Charger SRT8
This is the funnest car I have ever driven. The interior and exterior design of this vehicle is excellent. I am very happy with our decision to purchase a Charger SRT8! I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone! Keep up the great work!
great car for families with out losing performance
this is a great car. there is plenty of room in the cabin for all passengers. great gas mileage without loss of performance. The MDS (multi displacement system) works flawlessly cant tell when it kicks in or out. out of all the cars I have drove this is one of the best for comfort, economy, and performance. I'm in the market to get a second in my hands to replace my Chrysler Town and Country. #0271 of 4000, Top Banana Pennsylvania.
- Performance
- Comfort
Power, Stye and refinement
Driving the SRT8 Charger is an experience in fun. The handling, power and comfort take you to places most four door sedans cannot unless the price tag exceeds 100K. It is a fun car at a fun price.
Unreal
I have owned many great cars but the SRT8 has them all outclassed. This car is in a class by itself. The SRT people really out did themselves on this one.
BAD ROCKET ARMS on CHARGER
Just got a 2006 Dodge Charger and now engine is sound like a traine because the BAD ROCKET ARMS on valve never seen this befor just be aware
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
06 Daytona - GoManGo
Bought Dec 31 2005. Car has great syling, is a lot of fun to drive. It is everything I expected when buying. Has very comfortable front seats. I would highly recommend the Daytona or Road & Track Group with the upgraded seats. They are much more comfortable than standard seats. Car handles very well, although I store it in winter so I am not sure about snow,/ice. Don't buy for fuel economy. .I still have never gotten anywhere near the 25 highway on the sticker, closer to 21. So far my only problem is a squeak in the dash that comes and goes. Otherwise, no problems in the first 13K miles. Very roomy, kids really like riding in it!
Where were the Germans?
Actually is wife's car but there are definitely problems with it. Ate the original tires under 25000,Then around 50000 check engine light reared it's ugly beam.Dealer came up with a $900.00 fix something about fixing valves with add on clamps?Never understood that,bought some gum out light stayed out for over 6000 then came back on.When I drive it there are just too many blind spots,the ride seems harsh,bump My head on the low roof,don't like not being able to rest arm on window sill.Now also finding out about tie rod problems,My guess the chassis is weak to handle stress of engine and rear wheel drive.
SRT
This is the most amazing vehicle I have ever driven/owned. It does as little or as much as you would ever want to do. It does however have some blind spots. In addition to this, I have noticed a whine, sounding like a turbocharger, possibly coming from the transmission, as I pull in to my garage. Hopefully nothing serious. If it isn't, I will be very extremely pleased with the vehicle.
Better than I expected
This is a fun car to drive. The SRT-8 is pure pleasure. My cousin (next door to me) bought the Mustang Saleen and it's nice (same price) but the interior is nowhere near as nice as the Charger's. Everything on the Charger seems well thought out. You can even dim the nav system screen! The interior is better than I've seen on any priced car. It looks good and feels good. Plenty of room in the back seats and it feels safe when driving. You can't help notice the large lump in the hood while behind the wheel and then smile knowing how the drive will be. The power is there when you need it. This is the best car I have ever owned and I've been driving performance cars for 20 years.
Loved it untill Motor Died at 46k and Bought new.
My first brand new car in Oct 2006. Car was still in bubble wrap ect. Car has been so so on the reliability scale. The second day I had it the radio knobs fell off. At 32k the coolant reserve tank failed at least it was parked when that happened. The car is not driven much only on short trips. The car drives excellent ect. But the reliability isnt great. I am a 40 yr old and dont hot rod this car like a18yr old. This is where the kicker comes in. At 46k the motor failed... would not start. Towed to Dodge and found it dropped a valve seat and damaged the whole motor. Dodge said it was a common problem. I was lucky got the 4k warranty from dealer didn't pay anything for repair. TRADING IT IN!!