The 2013 Charger SRT8 is a 470-horsepower muscle sedan with a naturally aspirated V8 engine
The 2013 Dodge Charger SRT8 is the high-performance version of Dodge's full-size sedan, built on the same platform as the standard Charger but with a 6.4-liter V8 engine that produces 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. It came with a five-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive as standard. This was the final year of the SRT8 nameplate before Dodge discontinued the model after 2014.
The SRT8 sits at the top of the Charger lineup and was designed to compete with other American muscle sedans. Unlike the base Charger, which uses a smaller V8 or V6, the SRT8 prioritizes straight-line acceleration and aggressive styling. The car weighs around 4,400 pounds, which is substantial for a sedan but typical for a vehicle in this class.
Key Takeaways
- The 2013 SRT8 engine is a 6.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 that does not use a turbocharger or supercharger, making it simpler mechanically than some competitors but thirsty for fuel.
- Fuel economy is poor by modern standards—expect 14 to 16 miles per gallon in mixed driving—because the engine is tuned for power, not efficiency.
- The transmission is a five-speed automatic, not a modern eight- or ten-speed unit, which means the engine runs at higher RPM on the highway and burns more fuel.
- Maintenance costs are higher than a standard Charger because the SRT8 uses performance-grade brakes, suspension, and cooling systems that wear faster under hard driving.
- Used examples from 2013 are now over a decade old, so checking service history and the condition of the cooling system and transmission fluid is critical before purchase.
Engine and Transmission Details
The 6.4-liter V8 is an all-aluminum engine with a cast-iron block, eight cylinders arranged in a V configuration, and a single overhead camshaft per bank. It breathes through a conventional intake manifold and exhaust headers—no turbocharger or supercharger. This design is straightforward and reliable when maintained, but it also means the engine must spin faster to make power, which is why fuel economy suffers.
The five-speed automatic transmission is a Chrysler TorqueFlite unit. Five speeds was adequate in 2013, but by today's standards it is outdated. The transmission does not have the overdrive ratios of newer automatics, so highway cruising happens at higher engine RPM. This contributes directly to poor fuel economy on long drives. The transmission is durable if serviced on schedule, but rebuilds are expensive if it fails.
Fuel Economy and Real-World Consumption
The EPA rated the 2013 SRT8 at 14 miles per gallon in the city and 23 on the highway, with a combined rating of 17 miles per gallon. Real-world numbers tend to be lower, especially in city driving where the heavy car and powerful engine mean more throttle input. Owners commonly report 14 to 16 miles per gallon in mixed driving, and highway mileage can drop to 18 to 20 if you drive at higher speeds.
This fuel consumption is a direct consequence of the engine design and transmission. The naturally aspirated V8 must work harder to produce power than a turbocharged engine would, and the five-speed transmission keeps RPM high. If fuel cost is a concern, the SRT8 is expensive to operate. A full tank holds 18.6 gallons, so a 300-mile trip will consume most of it.
Brakes, Suspension, and Handling
The SRT8 came standard with Brembo four-wheel disc brakes with four-piston calipers in front and two-piston in the rear. These are performance-grade brakes designed to handle repeated hard stops without fading. The brake pads and rotors wear faster than on a standard Charger because the heavier car and more aggressive driving style put more demand on them. Expect to replace pads every 30,000 to 50,000 miles depending on driving habits.
The suspension uses a double-wishbone front end and a multi-link independent rear, tuned stiffer than the standard Charger. The SRT8 also came with 20-inch wheels and performance tires as standard. This setup provides better cornering grip and body control than the base model, but the trade-off is a firmer ride on rough roads. Suspension components like control arm bushings and tie-rod ends wear faster on performance cars, especially if the car has been driven hard or on poor roads.
Cooling System and Temperature Management
The 6.4-liter V8 generates significant heat, and the SRT8 uses a larger radiator and electric cooling fans compared to the standard Charger. The cooling system is robust, but age is a factor on a 2013 model. The radiator, water pump, and thermostat are common wear items after ten years. If the coolant has not been flushed regularly, mineral buildup inside the radiator can reduce cooling efficiency, which is dangerous in a car that already runs warm.
Check the coolant level and condition before buying a used SRT8. The fluid should be bright green or orange depending on the type used; if it looks brown or cloudy, the system has not been maintained properly. Overheating in a V8 this size can cause serious engine damage quickly, so cooling system health is not something to overlook.
Interior Features and Technology
The 2013 SRT8 interior is functional but dated by today's standards. It came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth audio streaming, and a backup camera. Climate control is automatic dual-zone, and the front seats are power-adjustable with heating. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and adjustable for tilt and telescoping.
The cabin is spacious for a sedan—the Charger is a full-size car—and the rear seat can fit three adults, though the transmission tunnel takes up legroom in the middle. Sound insulation is adequate but not exceptional; the V8 engine is audible at highway speeds. The trunk holds 16.2 cubic feet, which is good for a sedan but less than a crossover or wagon.
Common Issues and Maintenance Concerns
The 2013 SRT8 is generally reliable, but certain components are known to wear or fail. The transmission fluid should be checked regularly and changed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles; neglecting this can lead to shifting problems or failure. The spark plugs should be replaced every 100,000 miles. The serpentine belt drives the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor and should be inspected for cracks or fraying every 50,000 miles.
Some owners report issues with the door locks and window regulators, which are electrical components that can fail after ten years. The panoramic sunroof, if equipped, can develop leaks. These are not catastrophic failures, but they are expensive to repair. Before buying a used SRT8, have a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic familiar with Dodge vehicles, and ask the seller for service records to confirm that routine maintenance has been done.
Insurance and Registration Costs
Insurance for a 2013 SRT8 is more expensive than for a standard Charger because of the higher horsepower, performance brakes, and the likelihood of more aggressive driving. Rates vary by location, age, driving history, and the insurance company, so get quotes from multiple insurers before buying. Some insurers charge a surcharge for high-performance vehicles or require higher liability limits.
Registration and title fees vary by state. Some states charge higher registration fees for vehicles over a certain horsepower threshold. Check with your state's motor vehicle department to understand the cost before purchase. Fuel tax and emissions testing requirements also vary by location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2013 Charger SRT8 reliable?
The SRT8 is generally reliable if maintained properly. The V8 engine is proven and durable, but performance cars demand more frequent maintenance than base models. Check service records and have a pre-purchase inspection done by a Dodge specialist before buying a used example.
Can I use regular gasoline in the SRT8?
The SRT8 requires 91-octane premium gasoline. Using regular 87-octane fuel can cause engine knock and reduce power output. The fuel pump and injectors are calibrated for premium fuel, so using it consistently is important for engine longevity.
How much does it cost to replace the brakes?
Brake pad replacement typically costs between $300 and $600 for all four wheels at an independent shop, depending on the shop's labor rate and whether rotors need resurfacing or replacement. Rotors can add another $200 to $400 to the cost. Performance brake pads wear faster than standard pads.
What is the towing capacity of the SRT8?
The 2013 Charger SRT8 is not rated for towing. It is a performance sedan designed for speed and handling, not hauling. Attempting to tow with it could damage the transmission and suspension.
How many seats does the SRT8 have?
The SRT8 is a five-passenger sedan with front bucket seats and a three-person rear bench. The rear middle seat is narrower due to the transmission tunnel, so it is best suited for children or shorter adults on longer trips.