2020 Dodge Charger Maintenance Schedule
Photo: Vhon Garcia / Pexels
The 2020 Dodge Charger spans a wide performance spectrum from the efficient 3.6L V6 to the 717-hp Hellcat Widebody, but all share the robust 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic and timing-chain engines that eliminate belt replacement. This schedule addresses the unique demands of both daily-driver V6/5.7L models and high-performance HEMI variants, with AWD-specific services where applicable.
Service Intervals
| Service | Interval | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil & FilterFactory interval is 10k miles for V6/5.7L; high-performance 6.4L and supercharged engines benefit from 5k-mile changes due to heat and boost stress. | 10,000 mi / 12 mo | $50-$90 |
| Tire RotationEssential for even wear on rear-biased RWD models; AWD variants distribute torque but still require regular rotation. | 7,500 mi | $25-$50 |
| Cabin Air FilterLocated behind the glovebox; replacement improves HVAC airflow and reduces allergens in the cabin. | 20,000 mi / 24 mo | $15-$35 |
| Engine Air FilterSupercharged Hellcat models are particularly sensitive to filter restriction; inspect more frequently in dusty conditions. | 30,000 mi | $20-$45 |
| Brake Fluid FlushFactory interval is 48 months; Brembo-equipped performance trims generate extreme heat and may benefit from more frequent service at 30k miles for track use. | 60,000 mi / 48 mo | $80-$130 |
| Brake Pad Inspection & ReplacementInspect annually; Hellcat models with six-piston Brembos consume pads faster, while V6 trims typically see 40k+ miles per set. | 12 mo | $150-$400 |
| Coolant Flush (OAT)Factory OAT coolant is long-life; supercharged engines run hotter and may benefit from a 60k-mile precautionary flush. | 100,000 mi / 120 mo | $120-$180 |
| Transmission Fluid & FilterZF 8HP transmission is officially lifetime-fill, but fluid change at 60k miles significantly extends longevity, especially on high-output engines. | 60,000 mi | $200-$350 |
| Spark PlugsFactory iridium plugs last 100k miles on V6; HEMI V8s may require replacement closer to 60k-80k miles under hard use or forced induction. | 100,000 mi | $150-$300 |
| Rear Differential Fluid (RWD)All Chargers have a rear differential; limited-slip and high-performance diffs (Hellcat) require friction-modifier additives and more frequent service. | 50,000 mi | $90-$150 |
| Transfer Case & Front Differential Fluid (AWD)AWD-equipped V6 and 5.7L models only; both units share service intervals and use synthetic gear oil. | 50,000 mi | $180-$280 |
| Battery Inspection & ReplacementFactory AGM batteries typically last 4-6 years; Hellcat models draw high current and may see shorter lifespan in hot climates. | 48 mo | $150-$250 |
| Serpentine Belt InspectionInspect for cracks and glazing; supercharged engines place extreme load on the belt, warranting earlier replacement around 50k miles. | 60,000 mi | $80-$150 |
| Fuel System Cleaning (Direct Injection)All engines use direct injection, which can cause intake valve carbon buildup; walnut-blasting service recommended every 60k-80k miles for preventive maintenance. | 60,000 mi | $150-$250 |
2020 Dodge Charger Oil Change Interval
The 2020 Dodge Charger oil change interval is every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (estimated cost $50-$90). Factory interval is 10k miles for V6/5.7L; high-performance 6.4L and supercharged engines benefit from 5k-mile changes due to heat and boost stress.
What Happens If You Skip It
- Neglecting transmission fluid changes on the ZF 8HP can lead to harsh shifting, torque converter shudder, and eventual valve body failure requiring $3,000+ replacement.
- Deferred brake fluid service on Brembo-equipped trims results in moisture absorption, boiling under hard braking, and spongy pedal feel that compromises stopping power.
- Ignoring rear differential fluid on RWD models—especially limited-slip units—causes clutch pack wear, whining noise, and costly differential rebuild or replacement.
- Skipping spark plug replacement on supercharged HEMI engines leads to misfires, detonation under boost, and potential catalytic converter damage from unburned fuel.
- Failing to service AWD transfer case fluid results in binding, overheating, and catastrophic failure of the power transfer unit, often requiring complete replacement.
Common Issues at Higher Mileage — 2020 Dodge Charger
ZF 8HP transmission may develop torque converter shudder during light acceleration if fluid is not changed; TSB-issued software updates and fluid service typically resolve it.
Pentastar V6 engines can experience rocker arm and lifter noise due to oil sludge buildup; consistent oil changes and using factory-spec 5W-20 synthetic mitigate this.
HEMI V8 engines may develop exhaust manifold bolt failures causing ticking noise and exhaust leaks; aftermarket studs are a common permanent fix.
Rear suspension bushings and control arms wear on all models, leading to clunking over bumps and alignment drift; inspect annually after 80k miles.
Supercharged Hellcat engines may experience supercharger coupler wear, causing whine or slip under boost; coupler replacement is preventive maintenance for high-mileage forced-induction cars.
Uconnect infotainment systems can develop touchscreen lag or freezing; software updates from the dealer often resolve persistent issues.
FAQ
How often does a 2020 Dodge Charger need an oil change?
The 2020 Dodge Charger oil change interval is every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (estimated cost $50-$90). Factory interval is 10k miles for V6/5.7L; high-performance 6.4L and supercharged engines benefit from 5k-mile changes due to heat and boost stress.
What maintenance does a 2020 Dodge Charger need?
The most important 2020 Dodge Charger services: engine oil & filter every 10,000 mi / 12 mo; tire rotation every 7,500 mi; brake pad inspection & replacement every 12 mo. See the full intervals table above for every service with estimated costs.
What are common Dodge Charger problems at higher mileage?
60,000+ mi: ZF 8HP transmission may develop torque converter shudder during light acceleration if fluid is not changed; TSB-issued software updates and fluid service typically resolve it. 80,000+ mi: Pentastar V6 engines can experience rocker arm and lifter noise due to oil sludge buildup; consistent oil changes and using factory-spec 5W-20 synthetic mitigate this. 70,000+ mi: HEMI V8 engines may develop exhaust manifold bolt failures causing ticking noise and exhaust leaks; aftermarket studs are a common permanent fix. 100,000+ mi: Rear suspension bushings and control arms wear on all models, leading to clunking over bumps and alignment drift; inspect annually after 80k miles. 90,000+ mi: Supercharged Hellcat engines may experience supercharger coupler wear, causing whine or slip under boost; coupler replacement is preventive maintenance for high-mileage forced-induction cars. 50,000+ mi: Uconnect infotainment systems can develop touchscreen lag or freezing; software updates from the dealer often resolve persistent issues.
