2007 Dodge Charger SXT 3.5 from North America
Summary:
Overall quality is not as expected
Faults:
Oil consumption of 1 liter within 2300 km of the oil change.
The so-called leather driver's seat is starting to tear on the seating area on the left side.
General Comments:
I have done a considerable amount of research before purchasing this car. I have back problems with sciatica, and have discovered a very limited variety of vehicles that are comfortable enough; that won't cripple me after 15 minutes of driving. The Charger does have nice seats with lumbar and lots of other adjustments. Other than the Volvo, this car seemed to fit the bill.
Just recently I noticed small tears on the seating area. I examined it closer, and found only the center panels of the seat are leather, and the rest of it is vinyl, and poor quality at that. With only 81000 km this should not happen. Dodge wants over $900 for the material to recover it. Repairs with new vinyl would cost as much as $300. Needless to say, I am quite disappointed with the seat.
Oil consumption on a 2007 car with only 81000 km? Yes. According to the Charger forums, this is not uncommon. Wow, this is another disappointment. Mercedes quality? Not.
Overall I found this car to be somewhat decent. Handling, braking and so on. The general projected cost of of ownership didn't seem too costly. Example timing belt replacements at 175000 km. Mopar oil filters at $6 each. I could even live with replacing the ball joints every 50000 km. It is a shame.
I sold my 1992 Volvo 960 with 356000 km, and it used 1 liter of oil between oil changes. It is to be expected with such high kilometers. The Volvo seats are still near new. Timing belt replacements every 46000 km. Oil filters at $14.
The Charger is now SOLD.
I haven't noticed these experiences on Charger reviews. I felt compelled to share mine to enlighten others to spare disappointment too.
I wanted a newer vehicle with lower mileage with less maintenance cost. I am still searching.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 13th July, 2011
18th Jul 2011, 10:11
Consumer reports? Blah! My 2007 Charger has been one of the most reliable vehicles I have owned - and the list includes Ford, Pontiac, Chevy, Oldsmobile, Toyota and Nissan.
26th Dec 2016, 20:17
Your sample size of one is not statistically significant.
8th Jul 2017, 22:01
But equally relevant.
16th Jul 2011, 13:54
"I have done a considerable amount of research before purchasing this car."
Just curious, you didn't check Consumer Reports??? They gave this car an awful review. Besides, Dodge isn't exactly known for quality.