Best Engine for Dodge Charger (2019-2024): Complete Buyer’s Guide
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Best Engine for Dodge Charger (2019-2024): Complete Buyer’s Guide
If you’re searching for the best engine for Dodge Charger models from 2019 to 2024, you’ve come to the right place. Whether your current powerplant has given up the ghost after high mileage, suffered catastrophic failure, or you’re simply looking to swap in something with more muscle, choosing the right replacement engine is one of the most important — and expensive — decisions you’ll make for your Charger. This guide breaks down every viable engine option for the 2019-2024 Dodge Charger, covering the budget-friendly 3.6L Pentastar V6 all the way up to the fire-breathing 6.2L Hellcat Supercharged HEMI, so you can make a smart, confident purchase the first time.
Quick Comparison: Best Engines for the 2019-2024 Dodge Charger
| Engine | Displacement | Horsepower | Best For | Est. Cost (Reman) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 3.6L | 300 hp | Budget, Daily Driver | $2,500–$4,000 |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 5.7L | 370 hp | Performance, Value | $3,500–$5,500 |
| 6.4L 392 HEMI V8 | 6.4L | 485 hp | High Performance | $5,000–$8,000 |
| 6.2L Hellcat HEMI | 6.2L | 717–797 hp | Max Power, Enthusiasts | $10,000–$18,000 |
| 6.2L Redeye HEMI | 6.2L | 797 hp | Track/Strip Use | $14,000–$22,000 |
Top Engine Picks for the 2019-2024 Dodge Charger
1. 3.6L Pentastar V6 — Best Budget Replacement Engine
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is the base engine offered in the 2019-2024 Dodge Charger SXT and GT trims. While it won’t win any drag races, it’s a solid, proven powerplant that delivers 300 horsepower and respectable fuel economy for a rear-wheel-drive sedan. If your V6 Charger has suffered engine failure and you want a straightforward, cost-effective fix, a remanufactured or low-mileage used 3.6L Pentastar is the smart play.
Pros:
- Most affordable replacement option
- Widely available as used or remanufactured units
- Bolt-in fitment for V6 Charger trims
- Good fuel economy (~19 city / 30 highway)
- Reliable when properly maintained
Cons:
- Only 300 hp — not a performance choice
- Known for early oil consumption issues on some units
- Cylinder head and cam phaser problems on high-mileage examples
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2. 5.7L HEMI V8 — Best Value Performance Engine
The 5.7L HEMI is the sweet spot for Charger owners who want genuine V8 muscle without breaking the bank. Producing 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, this engine transforms the Charger’s character entirely. It’s standard equipment on the R/T trim and is one of the most swapped-in engines for owners upgrading from a V6 platform. Remanufactured units from reputable suppliers are abundant, and fitment is straightforward for experienced mechanics.
Pros:
- Iconic HEMI V8 sound and feel
- 370 hp / 395 lb-ft of torque
- MDS (Multi-Displacement System) for improved highway fuel economy
- Excellent parts availability and aftermarket support
- Reasonable price for a V8 replacement
Cons:
- MDS system can cause issues if not properly maintained
- Tick noise common on some units (lifter issues)
- V6-to-V8 swap requires additional components (ECU, harness, mounts)
👉 Shop 5.7L HEMI Replacement Engines for Dodge Charger [CTA_BUTTON:dodge-charger-5-7l-hemi-engine:View Options]
3. 6.4L 392 HEMI V8 — Best High-Performance Replacement
Step up to the 6.4L 392 HEMI and you’re in serious performance territory. With 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, this is the factory engine for the Charger Scat Pack (also called the R/T Scat Pack). If you own a Scat Pack and need a replacement, a remanufactured 392 is your direct swap. For those upgrading from a 5.7L, this is also a popular and relatively clean swap that rewards you with a dramatic performance jump.
Pros:
- 485 hp straight from the factory specification
- No supercharger complexity to deal with
- Strong torque output across the RPM range
- Excellent aftermarket support for further mods
- Direct replacement for Scat Pack owners
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive than the 5.7L
- Fuel economy takes a hit compared to smaller engines
- Harder to find quality low-mileage used units
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4. 6.2L Hellcat Supercharged HEMI — Best for Maximum Power
The 6.2L supercharged Hellcat HEMI is in a class of its own. Producing 717 horsepower in standard Hellcat trim and 797 hp in the Redeye configuration, this engine turns the Charger into a legitimate supercar-slayer. Replacing or swapping in a Hellcat engine is a major undertaking — it requires compatible drivetrain components, upgraded cooling, and proper ECU tuning — but for dedicated enthusiasts, the result is nothing short of extraordinary.
Pros:
- 717–797 hp depending on configuration
- Factory-engineered supercharged V8 reliability
- Quarter-mile times in the low 11s (stock)
- Massive aftermarket and tuning ecosystem
- Bragging rights — it’s a Hellcat
Cons:
- Very expensive — sourcing a quality unit costs $10,000+
- Requires substantial supporting modifications for swaps
- Fuel consumption is significant
- Insurance costs increase substantially
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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Engine for Your 2019-2024 Dodge Charger
New vs. Remanufactured vs. Used — What Should You Buy?
New OEM engines are the gold standard but cost the most. For most owners replacing a failed engine, this isn’t the practical choice unless your vehicle is under warranty.
Remanufactured engines are the sweet spot for most buyers. A quality reman engine has been completely disassembled, inspected, and rebuilt to OEM specs using new or reconditioned components. Look for suppliers offering at least a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty, and verify that the unit includes new gaskets, seals, and bearings.
Used (pull-out) engines are the most affordable but come with the most risk. Always verify mileage documentation, request a compression test report, and buy from a reputable salvage yard with a return policy. Aim for units under 80,000 miles.
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Key Factors to Consider
- Trim compatibility: Verify your Charger’s trim level. A direct swap (same engine family) is always simpler and less expensive than a cross-swap.
- VIN verification: Use your VIN to confirm the exact engine code your vehicle left the factory with. Your parts supplier should offer VIN-based fitment lookup.
- Warranty coverage: Never buy an engine without at least a 90-day warranty. Reputable suppliers offer 1–3 year coverage on remanufactured units.
- Core charge: Many remanufactured engine suppliers require you to return your old (core) engine. Factor this into your total cost.
- Ancillary components: Budget for new motor mounts, a fresh timing kit, coolant, oil, and gaskets regardless of what the engine listing includes.
Brief Installation Overview
Replacing the engine in a 2019-2024 Dodge Charger is a significant job best left to a professional mechanic or experienced DIYer with proper equipment. Here’s a high-level overview of the process:
- Preparation: Disconnect the battery, drain all fluids (coolant, oil, transmission fluid if applicable), and relieve fuel system pressure.
- Disassembly: Remove the hood, air intake, cooling system components, exhaust manifolds, accessory drive components, and all electrical connectors tied to the engine.
- Engine removal: Support the transmission with a jack, unbolt the bell housing, disconnect motor mounts, and use an engine hoist to carefully lift the engine out of the bay.
- Transfer components: Move sensors, brackets, and accessories from the old engine to the replacement unit as needed.
- Installation: Lower the new engine into position, secure motor mounts, reconnect the transmission, and reinstall all components in reverse order.
- Startup and break-in: Refill all fluids, prime the oil system before first start, and follow a proper break-in procedure for the first 500–1,000 miles if using a remanufactured engine.
Estimated labor time: 8–15 hours depending on engine type and shop experience. Professional labor costs typically range from $800 to $1,800.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engines are available for the 2019-2024 Dodge Charger?
The 2019-2024 Dodge Charger is available with four engine options from the factory: the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (300 hp), the 5.7L HEMI V8 (370 hp), the 6.4L 392 HEMI V8 (485 hp), and the supercharged 6.2L Hellcat HEMI V8 (717 or 797 hp in Redeye trim).
Can I swap a V8 engine into a V6 Dodge Charger?
Yes, a V6-to-V8 swap is technically possible on the 2019-2024 Charger, but it is a complex project. You will need to source a compatible V8 engine, matching ECU and wiring harness, appropriate motor mounts, a V8-spec driveshaft, and potentially upgraded brakes and cooling. Professional installation is strongly recommended.
How much does it cost to replace the engine in a Dodge Charger?
Total engine replacement costs for a 2019-2024 Dodge Charger typically range from $3,500 to $20,000+ depending on the engine type chosen, whether you use a new, remanufactured, or used unit, and local labor rates. V6 replacements are the most affordable; Hellcat swaps are at the high end.
Is it worth replacing the engine in a Dodge Charger?
In most cases, yes — especially if the rest of the vehicle is in good condition. The Charger platform is well-regarded and can last 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance. Replacing the engine on a clean-bodied, well-maintained Charger is often more cost-effective than purchasing a replacement vehicle.
What is the most reliable engine in the Dodge Charger lineup?
The 5.7L HEMI V8 is widely considered the most balanced option, offering strong performance with good long-term reliability when properly maintained. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is also reliable but less exciting. The 6.4L 392 HEMI is robust, though more expensive to maintain. The Hellcat 6.2L is capable but requires more attention given its performance demands.
How many miles does a Dodge Charger engine last?
With regular oil changes and proper maintenance, the HEMI V8 engines in the 2019-2024 Charger commonly reach 200,000 miles or more. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is similarly durable, though it has known vulnerabilities around the cam phasers and valve timing components that should be monitored after 100,000 miles.
Final Verdict: Which Engine Should You Choose?
The best engine for Dodge Charger models from 2019 to 2024 ultimately depends on your goals, budget, and current trim level. Here’s our quick-and-dirty summary:
- Budget replacement: Go with a quality remanufactured 3.6L Pentastar V6 — it’s affordable and gets you back on the road fast.
- Best overall value: The 5.7L HEMI V8 delivers the legendary HEMI experience at a reasonable price point. It’s our top pick for most Charger owners.
- Performance upgrade: The 6.4L 392 HEMI is the sweet spot for serious driving enthusiasts who want maximum naturally-aspirated power.
- Ultimate build: If budget is no object and you want to build something truly special, the 6.2L Hellcat HEMI is the endgame.
Whatever route you take, always buy from a reputable supplier, verify fitment with your VIN, and don’t skimp on the supporting components. Your Charger deserves a proper foundation. 🔥
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