2016 Dodge Charger Check Engine Light: Diagnostic Guide
The 2016 Dodge Charger relies on the PCM to monitor ignition, emissions and the 8HP automatic transmission. When the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) turns on, follow this workflow to capture the right data, repair the fault, and keep the light from returning.
- Powertrains covered: 3.6L Pentastar, 5.7L HEMI, 6.4L 392 HEMI and 6.2L Hellcat.
- Before you start: Scan the vehicle, record freeze-frame information (RPM, load, trims, temperature) and confirm battery voltage is 12.6 V or higher.
- Useful tools: OBD-II scanner with live data, fuel pressure gauge, smoke tester, spark tester and basic hand tools.
Common Codes on a 2016 Charger
| Code | Symptoms | Likely Cause | First Checks |
|---|---|---|---|
| P0300/P030x | Rough idle, flashing MIL | Failing ignition coil, worn spark plug, lifter wear | Swap coils/plugs, listen for valvetrain tick, run compression/leak-down test. |
| P0456 | Fuel odor, MIL after refueling | Damaged gas cap, EVAP hose leak, ESIM vent leak | Install OEM cap, smoke-test EVAP system, inspect hoses around the charcoal canister. |
| P2096/P2098 | Post-catalyst lean trim, reduced power | Exhaust leak, lazy O2 sensor, persistent misfire | Check for exhaust leaks near the manifolds, monitor O2 sensor switching, repair misfires first. |
| P0128 | Low coolant temperature, slow warm-up | Thermostat stuck open, low coolant level | Verify coolant level/condition, replace thermostat, bleed the system. |
| P1DF3 | Transmission failsafe, harsh shifts | 8HP adaptive values out of range, low ATF | Inspect ATF level/condition, perform Quick Learn procedure with a scan tool. |
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Flow
- Record data: Read PCM and TCM codes, capture freeze-frame values, note fuel trims and Mode $06$ misfire counters.
- Visual inspection: Examine ignition coils, plug boots, vacuum hoses, PCV system and battery/ground connections.
- Ignition and fuel: Swap coils/plugs between cylinders, verify 58 psi fuel pressure under load, inspect injectors with a noid light.
- EVAP and emissions: Smoke-test the EVAP system for leaks, check catalytic converter inlet/outlet temperature and O2 sensor activity.
- Throttle/airflow: Clean the throttle body, confirm TPS/APP sensor voltage tracks correctly, and reset ETC adaptive values.
- Transmission follow-up: For combined engine/transmission codes, check TCM data (gear ratios, clutch volume indexes) and complete an adaptive relearn.
- Road test: After repairs, clear codes, drive 30–50 miles in mixed conditions, and confirm fuel trims remain within ±10% while readiness monitors return to “complete.”
Resetting the MIL Safely
- Use a scan tool: Issue Mode $04$ (Clear/Reset) after the repair; avoid simply disconnecting the battery.
- Battery disconnect caution: Removing battery power wipes adaptive memory and is not a real fix—only use it if a scan tool is unavailable.
- Flashing MIL response: A flashing light indicates an active misfire. Reduce throttle immediately and address the misfire to prevent catalytic damage.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
- Replace spark plugs and inspect ignition coils every 30,000 miles (5.7L) or 60,000 miles (6.4L/Hellcat); torque to factory spec.
- Clean the throttle body and MAP/IAT sensors annually to avoid correlation errors.
- Inspect EVAP hoses, ESIM module and fuel cap seals once a year; replace damaged components immediately.
- Keep PCM/TCM software up to date—Chrysler flashes often refine misfire thresholds and transmission behavior.
Helpful Resources
Need a deeper dive? Review the Charger master CEL guide and the Dodge transmission troubleshooting guide.