1981 Dodge Challenger
Only 1 complaint on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 1 complaint on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 1 |
| 2008 | 10 |
| 2009 | 133 |
| 2010 | 299 |
| 2011 | 193 |
| 2012 | 253 |
| 2013 | 179 |
| 2014 | 148 |
| 2015 | 126 |
| 2016 | 78 |
| 2017 | 49 |
| 2018 | 75 |
| 2019 | 59 |
| 2020 | 20 |
| 2021 | 19 |
| 2022 | 9 |
| 2023 | 41 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 1 complaint on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 1 total report mention: suspension, most commonly citing stabilizer bar and shock absorber.
Show complaint excerpts
DOOR SPEAKER WIRE MALFUNCTIONED.
NHTSA ODI report, 19951102
Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 of 1 total report mentions: electrical system, most commonly citing wiring.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1981 Dodge Challenger — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (1 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1981 Dodge Challenger reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1981 Dodge Challenger?
The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 200% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1981 Dodge Challenger have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.