2023 Dodge Charger Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2023 Dodge Charger: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2023 Dodge Charger has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2023 Dodge Charger has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2023 Dodge Charger?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2023 Dodge Charger, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional warning indicators or messages that may provide further insight into the problem. If these initial checks do not reveal the issue, utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial next step. This tool connects to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system, allowing you to retrieve specific error codes that can guide you toward the underlying problem. Additionally, pay attention to any unusual symptoms your vehicle may exhibit, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these can offer valuable clues in your diagnostic process. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2023 Dodge Charger?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2023 Dodge Charger, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. Understanding the common problems that may trigger this warning can empower you to take action. One of the simplest issues to check is a loose gas cap; ensuring it is securely tightened can often resolve the light without further intervention. If the light persists, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty one can significantly affect your vehicle's fuel efficiency and emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can also illuminate the check engine light, indicating a need for further diagnosis. Worn or faulty spark plugs may lead to engine misfires, while a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, both of which are critical for optimal engine performance. Lastly, ignition coil issues can result in noticeable performance drops and should not be overlooked. By addressing these common problems promptly, you can maintain your Dodge Charger’s performance and prevent more serious issues from developing.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2023 Dodge Charger?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 Dodge Charger, it serves as a critical warning that should not be ignored. The urgency of addressing this issue cannot be overstated, as neglecting it may lead to severe consequences, including engine damage or compromised safety. The check engine light often signals underlying problems with the engine or emissions system, which, if left unresolved, can escalate into more significant and costly repairs. Additionally, a malfunctioning engine can result in decreased fuel efficiency and overall performance, impacting your driving experience. For DIY enthusiasts, taking immediate action to diagnose and resolve the issue can save both time and money, preventing further damage and ensuring your vehicle operates smoothly. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the check engine light and address any related issues promptly to maintain the health of your Dodge Charger and avoid potential complications down the road.

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2023 Dodge Charger Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions