What You Get With a 2009 Dodge Charger

The 2009 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan built on the same platform as the Chrysler 300, with a muscular exterior and a choice of three engines. It came standard with a 2.7-liter V6 producing 190 horsepower, but buyers could step up to a 3.5-liter V8 with 250 horsepower or a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 370 horsepower. The Charger was offered in SE, SXT, and R/T trims, with the R/T reserved for the HEMI engine.

This generation Charger (2006–2010) was designed to appeal to buyers who wanted a traditional American muscle car with four doors and a back seat. It had a 120-inch wheelbase, weighed between 3,900 and 4,100 pounds depending on engine choice, and came standard with a five-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was not available; 2009 Chargers were rear-wheel drive only.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2009 Charger offered three engine choices: a 2.7L V6 (190 hp), a 3.5L V8 (250 hp), and a 5.7L HEMI V8 (370 hp), with the HEMI reserved for R/T models.
  • Transmission was a five-speed automatic across all models; no manual option was offered in 2009.
  • Common issues include transmission shudder, water leaks into the trunk, and premature brake wear, particularly on higher-horsepower models.
  • Fuel economy ranged from 16–18 mpg city and 25–27 mpg highway for the V6, down to 14–16 mpg city and 22–24 mpg highway for the HEMI.
  • The 2009 model year had a revised front grille and interior updates compared to earlier years in the generation.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy

The base 2.7-liter V6 was adequate for everyday driving but underpowered for a car of this size and weight. It delivered 190 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, with EPA estimates of 16 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Owners reported that acceleration was sluggish, particularly when merging on highways or passing other vehicles.

The 3.5-liter V8 was a middle ground, producing 250 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. This engine was smoother and more responsive than the V6 but less common in the used market. Fuel economy dropped to roughly 15 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 was the performance choice, with 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds and delivered the muscle-car feel the Charger was designed for. The trade-off was fuel economy of 14–16 mpg city and 22–24 mpg highway. The HEMI also required premium gasoline (91 octane or higher) to avoid knock and achieve rated performance.

Transmission and Drivetrain

All 2009 Chargers used a five-speed automatic transmission (the 5G-Tronic) paired with a rear-wheel-drive layout. There was no manual transmission option and no all-wheel-drive variant. The transmission was electronically controlled and included a manual shift mode that allowed drivers to select gears using the gear selector or steering wheel paddles on some trims.

One recurring complaint from owners was transmission shudder or hesitation during acceleration, particularly between 30 and 50 mph. This issue appeared in some vehicles and was sometimes addressed by a transmission fluid and filter change or, in more severe cases, by reprogramming the transmission control module. If you are considering a used 2009 Charger, a test drive that includes gradual acceleration through this speed range can reveal whether the vehicle has this problem.

Common Mechanical and Electrical Issues

The 2009 Charger had several recurring problems that owners and mechanics documented. Trunk water leaks were among the most common, with water entering the trunk during heavy rain or car washes. This was typically traced to poor sealing around the trunk lid or the taillights. The leak could damage the spare tire, battery, or wiring and required resealing or replacement of weatherstripping.

Brake wear was accelerated on many 2009 Chargers, with some owners reporting that front brake pads needed replacement before 30,000 miles. This was more pronounced on R/T models with the HEMI engine, likely due to the added weight and power. Rear brakes also wore unevenly on some vehicles.

Cooling system issues included thermostat failures and radiator leaks. Some owners reported that the engine ran hotter than expected or that the cooling fan cycled too frequently. Radiator hoses and connections were also prone to leaking, particularly as the vehicle aged.

Electrical gremlins included intermittent dashboard warning lights, battery drain, and alternator failures. Some owners reported that the battery would drain overnight even when the vehicle was not in use, suggesting a parasitic draw from an electrical component.

Interior Features and Comfort

The 2009 Charger's interior was redesigned compared to earlier years in the generation, with a new dashboard layout and updated trim materials. The cabin was spacious for a sedan, with good legroom in both front and rear seats. The trunk held 16.2 cubic feet of cargo, which was generous for the class.

Standard features on the SE included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM radio with a CD player. The SXT added cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an upgraded audio system. The R/T included leather seats, heated front seats, and a premium sound system on higher trims.

Infotainment options were limited by 2009 standards. There was no touchscreen on the base system, though some trims offered a navigation system with a small screen. Bluetooth connectivity was not standard and was not available as an option on the 2009 model year.

Safety Ratings and Equipment

The 2009 Charger received a four-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with four stars for frontal crash and five stars for rollover resistance. Side-impact ratings were three stars. These ratings were respectable for a 2009 model but would be considered below average by today's standards.

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, side-impact airbags, and curtain airbags along the side windows. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, as was electronic stability control (ESC). Traction control was also included. Some trims offered a backup camera, though this was not standard across the lineup.

Maintenance Costs and Reliability

Maintenance for a 2009 Charger is generally straightforward and parts are widely available. Oil changes, filter replacements, and routine fluid services are inexpensive. However, repairs to the transmission, cooling system, or electrical components can be costly. Labor rates for Dodge service vary by region and whether you use a Dodge dealership or an independent shop.

The HEMI engine, while powerful, requires premium fuel and can be expensive to repair if major work is needed. Spark plugs, for example, are more labor-intensive to replace on the HEMI than on the V6 or 3.5L V8. Transmission repairs or rebuilds can exceed $2,000 to $4,000 depending on the extent of the damage.

If you are buying a used 2009 Charger, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is worth the cost. Pay particular attention to transmission performance, cooling system condition, and any signs of electrical issues or water damage in the trunk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the 2009 Charger SE, SXT, and R/T?

The SE is the base model with the 2.7L V6 and minimal features. The SXT adds the 3.5L V8 option, more interior trim, and comfort features like cruise control and leather steering wheel. The R/T is the performance model, exclusively paired with the 5.7L HEMI V8, and includes leather seats, heated front seats, and upgraded audio.

Can I use regular gasoline in a 2009 Charger HEMI?

The HEMI is designed for premium gasoline (91 octane or higher). Using regular gasoline can cause engine knock, reduce performance, and potentially damage the engine over time. The V6 and 3.5L V8 can run on regular gasoline, though the owner's manual should be checked for the specific recommendation.

How many miles can a 2009 Charger last?

With proper maintenance, a 2009 Charger can reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. The V6 and 3.5L V8 tend to be more durable than the HEMI for long-term ownership. Transmission issues and cooling system problems are the most common reasons for earlier failure.

Is the 2009 Charger good for towing?

The 2009 Charger was not designed as a towing vehicle. Dodge did not publish a towing capacity for this model, and the sedan platform and automatic transmission make it unsuitable for regular towing. It is not recommended for trailer use.

What should I look for when buying a used 2009 Charger?

Check for transmission shudder during a test drive, inspect the trunk for water stains or rust, review service records for cooling system work, and have a mechanic inspect the brakes and electrical system. Ask the seller about any warning lights or recurring issues. A vehicle history report will show accident history and title status.