What the 2013 Dodge Charger offers and how it compares

The 2013 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan with a V8 engine as standard, available in three displacement sizes: 3.6L V8, 5.7L V8, or 6.4L V8. It seats five and comes in rear-wheel drive only. The 2013 model year sits in the middle of the sixth generation (2011–2014), so parts availability is good and repair shops know these cars well. Insurance rates tend to run higher than comparable four-door sedans because of the V8 engine and performance reputation.

Compared to the 2012 model, the 2013 Charger made no major changes. Compared to the 2014, the 2013 is mechanically identical but the 2014 received a mid-cycle refresh with updated interior trim and exterior styling. If you're shopping used, the difference is mostly cosmetic.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2013 Charger comes standard with a 3.6L V8 producing 292 horsepower, with optional 5.7L (370 hp) and 6.4L (470 hp) engines available.
  • Fuel economy ranges from 16 city / 25 highway (3.6L) to 14 city / 23 highway (6.4L), so budget accordingly for gas costs.
  • All 2013 Chargers are rear-wheel drive only; all-wheel drive was not offered that year.
  • Insurance costs are typically higher than mid-size sedans because of the V8 engine and the car's performance classification.
  • Common maintenance items include spark plugs every 30,000 miles, transmission fluid service, and brake inspection due to the car's weight.

Engine choices and horsepower ratings

The base 3.6L V8 produces 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It pairs with a five-speed automatic transmission and is the most fuel-efficient option. This engine is also used in other Chrysler products, so parts are widely available and repair costs are typically lower than for the larger V8s.

The 5.7L V8 (optional) produces 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque. It also uses a five-speed automatic. This engine is common in Dodge and Chrysler trucks and SUVs, making it straightforward to find at salvage yards and repair shops.

The 6.4L V8 (optional, high-performance models) produces 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. It pairs with a five-speed automatic and is found only in the R/T and SRT8 trim levels. This is the most powerful option but also the thirstiest for fuel and the most expensive to maintain.

Fuel economy and real-world gas costs

The EPA rates the 3.6L V8 at 16 city / 25 highway / 19 combined. The 5.7L V8 is rated 15 city / 24 highway / 18 combined. The 6.4L V8 is rated 14 city / 23 highway / 17 combined. These are estimates; real-world mileage depends on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance.

At current gas prices, a 3.6L Charger driven 12,000 miles per year will cost roughly $1,400 to $1,600 annually in fuel. A 6.4L model at the same mileage will cost roughly $1,800 to $2,000 annually. These figures assume average fuel prices and mixed city/highway driving.

Transmission and drivetrain

All 2013 Chargers use a five-speed automatic transmission paired to the engine. The transmission is electronically controlled and includes a manual shift mode. Rear-wheel drive is standard; no all-wheel drive option exists for this model year.

The five-speed automatic is known to be durable in the Charger platform, but transmission fluid should be serviced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds with the 5.7L and 6.4L engines; the 3.6L is not rated for towing.

Interior space and seating

The 2013 Charger seats five across two rows: two in front and three in back. Front seats are 10-way power adjustable on most trims. The rear seat is a 60/40 split-folding bench, giving you 16.2 cubic feet of trunk space with the rear seats up, or 32.3 cubic feet with them folded.

Headroom and legroom are generous by sedan standards. The back seat is tight for three adults on long drives, but acceptable for two passengers or children. Climate control is dual-zone on most trims, and the steering wheel is tilt-and-telescoping on all models.

Common maintenance and repair costs

Spark plugs on the 3.6L and 5.7L engines should be replaced every 30,000 miles. The 6.4L uses a different plug type and interval; check your owner's manual. Brake pads typically last 30,000 to 50,000 miles depending on driving style; the Charger's weight (over 4,000 pounds) means brakes work harder than on lighter sedans.

Transmission fluid service is recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Coolant should be flushed every 100,000 miles or per the owner's manual. Tire rotation every 6,000 to 8,000 miles helps extend tire life. Parts for the 3.6L and 5.7L engines are inexpensive and widely available; 6.4L parts cost more but are still obtainable through Dodge dealers and online suppliers.

Safety features and crash test ratings

The 2013 Charger comes standard with six airbags, electronic stability control, and traction control. Anti-lock brakes are standard. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2013 Charger an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. Front crash protection received 5 stars; side crash received 4 stars; rollover received 3 stars.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did not conduct a full test suite on the 2013 Charger, but rated the front crash prevention system as "Superior" on models equipped with it. Blind-spot mirrors and backup cameras are available on higher trims but not standard on base models.

Trim levels and what each includes

The 2013 Charger comes in SE, SXT, R/T, and SRT8 trims. The SE is the base model with the 3.6L V8, cloth seats, and manual windows. The SXT adds power windows, locks, and mirrors, plus a six-speaker stereo. The R/T includes the 5.7L V8, sport suspension, and 18-inch wheels. The SRT8 is the performance flagship with the 6.4L V8, Brembo brakes, and sport-tuned suspension.

All trims include air conditioning, power steering, and a steering-wheel-mounted audio control. Bluetooth is available on SXT and higher. A navigation system and premium audio are options across all trims. Used 2013 Chargers in SRT8 trim command a premium over SE models, sometimes $3,000 to $5,000 more, depending on mileage and condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2013 Charger good for towing?

The 5.7L and 6.4L engines are rated for 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. The 3.6L is not rated for towing. You'll need a proper hitch installed and should use a weight-distribution system for loads over 1,000 pounds. Check your owner's manual for specific requirements.

How much does insurance cost for a 2013 Charger?

Insurance rates vary by location, driving record, and coverage level, but a 2013 Charger typically costs 15 to 25 percent more to insure than a comparable four-cylinder sedan. The V8 engine and performance classification drive the higher rate. Get quotes from multiple insurers for your specific situation.

What's the difference between the 5.7L and 6.4L engines?

The 6.4L produces 100 more horsepower (470 vs. 370) and 75 more pound-feet of torque. It also costs more to buy, more to insure, and gets worse fuel economy. The 5.7L is sufficient for most drivers and offers better value for money.

Can I fit a car seat in the back of a 2013 Charger?

Yes. The rear seat has three seating positions, and all are equipped with seat belt anchors. LATCH anchors are available on the outer two positions. The rear doors open wide, making it easier to install and access a car seat than in some sedans.

How reliable is the 2013 Charger?

The 2013 Charger has a solid reliability record for the V8 engines used. Common issues include transmission shudder (rare but documented), door lock failures, and electrical gremlins. Have a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic familiar with Dodge products before buying used.