KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2006 Dodge Charger electrical problems
critical 100 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850 · see electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
100
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
3crashes
4fires
8injuries
1fatality
What stands out
Owners have filed 100 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA electrical complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 9 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Drivers And/Or Passenger Front Power Door Locks And Windows Inoperative U0200 Lost Communication With Passengers Door Module U0199 Lost Communication With Drivers Door Module This bulletin involves Inspecting the Drivers Door Module (DDM) and/or Passenger Door Module (PDM) and replacing one of both if necessary. The customer may experience any or all of the following conditions: The drivers and/or passenger front power locks and windows are inoperative. will work properly. The Technician may find Diagnostic trouble code (DTC), U0200 Lost communication with Passenger Door Module. The Technician may find Diagnostic trouble code (DTC), U0199 Lost of communication with Drivers Door Module.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2006 Dodge Charger accumulated 100 electrical complaints centered on four critical failure categories.
Stalling and power loss dominate the narratives. Owners report the engine cutting out without warning at stop lights, during highway merging, and while driving at 35–70 mph—often multiple times in a single trip. Many cases cluster after refueling with a full tank, though not exclusively. Restart is usually immediate, but some owners wait or try multiple times. Dealers and independent shops cannot reliably reproduce the problem during brief test drives, and no permanent fix emerges after replacing fuel tanks, spark plugs, transmission control modules, and PCMs.
Instrument cluster blackouts occur while driving: all gauges drop to zero, every warning light flashes on, then the system resets as if the vehicle restarted. Engine keeps running, but the startling loss of speed and fuel information creates hazardous distraction and disorientation.
Headlight flickering ranges from intermittent flashing to constant on-off cycling, forcing some owners to avoid night driving.
Battery explosions are documented—loud detonations spraying acid into the trunk; one case involved sparks near a fuel pump, narrowly avoiding catastrophe.
Wiring harness defects are repeatedly cited by repair shops as the likely root cause. One airbag failed to deploy in a fatal frontal crash, and occupant classification data showed the system never recognized the passenger was seated.
Dealers consistently state they cannot diagnose these faults, cannot reproduce them, or cannot complete repairs. Warranty refusals and manufacturer non-response are common.
Same Dodge Charger electrical reports on nearby years: 2007 · 2008 · 2009
Failure modes owners describe
Stalling while driving — intermittent, multiple speeds
Engine cuts out without warning at various speeds ranging from idle/stop lights to highway speeds (35–70 mph). Vehicle typically restarts normally, though occasionally requires waiting or multiple restart attempts. Occurs randomly and frequently; some owners report 5–30+ instances over months or years. Often triggered after refueling with a full tank, though not exclusively. Dash warning lights may illuminate momentarily or not appear at all.
When: Most frequently at low speeds (stop lights, parking lots) and after full refuel; also at highway speeds during traffic merging or normal driving. Onset varies from 23,723 miles to 125,000+ miles, with many reports between 31,000–80,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine dies while driving with no warning; Loss of power/acceleration; Loss of power steering when vehicle shuts off; Engine sputters or stutters before stalling; Temporary gauge/warning light illumination or absence of warning; Vehicle restarts normally or requires multiple attempts; Frequent occurrence after full refuel; Oil light may illuminate when stalling occurs
Codes mentioned: U0100 (Lost communication with ECM/PCM), P0700 (Transmission control system malfunction), P0016 (Crankshaft/camshaft position correlation), P0128 (Thermostat rationality test), General PCM codes reported as non-specific
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have replaced fuel tanks (per recall), spark plugs, transmission control modules, PCM/computers, wiring harnesses, and performed PCM flash updates. Multiple replacements often fail to resolve issue. Some owners report problem persisted or worsened after fuel tank recall replacement. No verified successful repair cited in narratives.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Fuel tank recall (CNSTX531AA, CNSTX532AA) issued; narrative #2 reports replacement made problem worse. Dealers unable to duplicate intermittent issue during test drives and refused service. Chrysler corporate assigned case manager but deferred to dealership diagnostics. PCM software flash updates performed but did not resolve stalling. No other recalls or TSBs referenced.
Dashboard lights and gauges flickering or going dark
Instrument cluster loses power intermittently while driving. All gauges (speedometer, tachometer, temperature, fuel) drop to zero and needles fall to rest position, all warning lights flash or illuminate simultaneously, then system resets as if vehicle restarted. Engine continues running, brakes and transmission unaffected. Occurs multiple times in single trip or sporadically over weeks. Often accompanied by audible chime or beep.
When: Occurs while driving at various speeds (15–70 mph), sometimes while idling or at stop lights. Reported from 23,000 miles onward; one case at 110,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: All dashboard gauges drop to zero simultaneously; All warning/dummy lights illuminate at once; Headlights may flicker or dim; Instrument panel goes completely dark; Gauges bounce to maximum then drop to null; Chime/beep sounds during event; System resets autonomously after seconds to minutes; Engine and drivetrain unaffected
Codes mentioned: U0100 (Lost communication with ECM/PCM)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers replaced rear wiring harness (fuse block to PCM connection), steering column switch, clock spring, head unit, amplifier, and radio. One owner reported wiring harness replacement cost ~$500. Replacements often fail to resolve or worsen the issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One case mentions manufacturer offered vehicle replacement in July 2007 but had not completed it by November 2007. No other manufacturer responses documented.
Headlights flickering or failing to operate
Headlights flicker on and off intermittently, either when switched on or while driving. Flashing occurs sporadically or becomes constant. One case involved both headlights and dash lights flickering together. Another involved only one headlight failing initially, followed by inoperative turn signals with burned wires in fuse box.
When: Onset varies; one case began 12/2/2014 and then occurred every time vehicle was driven. Another case involved burned wires at 31,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Headlights flash on and off randomly when turned on; Continuous headlight flickering while driving; One or both headlights fail to illuminate; Turn signals inoperative; Flashing creates appearance of signaling other vehicles; Problem occurs at night, forcing nighttime driving avoidance
Repairs/costs cited: Headlight switch/module replaced but problem persisted. One case noted burned wires in fuse box discovered by independent mechanic. Dealers unable to diagnose due to intermittent nature.
Battery explosion
Battery exploded without warning when owner attempted to start vehicle or turned ignition key, producing loud explosion sound, white smoke, and chemical odor. Battery acid sprayed into trunk. Nylon battery strap contained debris and prevented more severe damage. One case occurred at CVS parking lot near gas pump, creating fire hazard with sparks igniting near fuel tank.
When: Occurred when starting vehicle or turning ignition key. One case at ~105,000 miles; another case timing not specified.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud explosion sound when ignition turned; White smoke and chemical odor from trunk; Battery acid sprayed in trunk area; Sparks from battery near fuel tank (one case); Fire hazard at fuel pump location (one case); Loss of all electrical power; Owner and bystanders experienced shock from blast
Repairs/costs cited: One case: battery and trunk cleaning $250 (with 20% dealer discount). Dealer stated unable to determine cause. Another case: battery replaced and vehicle damaged; windshield cracked.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers cited 12-month/12K-mile battery warranty as reason to deny warranty coverage. No investigation into cause documented.
Loss of electrical power while driving
Complete electrical shutdown while driving — all systems (engine, lights, gauges, power steering, brakes) lose power simultaneously. Vehicle typically restarts after minutes or can restart immediately. Steering becomes very difficult (power steering lost). Occurs with or without prior warning lights. One case involved vehicle locked in park in driveway until power restored.
When: Occurred while driving 55–65 mph on highways and in heavy traffic. One case happened while driving in rain.
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of engine power; All lights go out (headlights, dashboard, gauges); Loss of power steering; Engine unable to accelerate; Doors automatically lock when power lost; Vehicle drifts across multiple lanes of traffic
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented; mechanics unable to diagnose.
Airbag non-deployment during crash
Front passenger airbag failed to deploy during frontal collision despite occupant being seated in front passenger seat. Occupant classification system failed to recognize passenger presence. In one fatal case, ECM data showed 'FRONT PASSENGER OCCUPANT CLASS: UNDETERMINED' despite adult female in seat. Driver's airbag deployed normally. TRW Automotive U.S. LLC and Kelsey-Hayes Company identified as suppliers of occupant classification system.
When: Occurred during frontal collisions at highway speeds. Failure mileage ~200,000 miles (one case); unspecified in fatal case.
Symptoms owners cite: Passenger airbag does not deploy during frontal impact; Driver airbag deploys normally; Occupant sustains head and arm injuries from impact with dashboard; Fatal head injuries from dashboard impact
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs attempted. One case involved airbag recall (NHTSA 15V313000) but parts unavailable.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA recall 15V313000 (airbags) issued but recall parts reportedly unavailable, delaying repairs beyond reasonable timeframe.
Engine fire — electrical origin
Fire started under hood at passenger side headlight area. Owner observed smoke and fire sparks from wiring around headlights advancing toward engine and rest of vehicle. Owner extinguished fire and drove home. Manufacturer representative inspected but could not determine cause or offer assistance.
When: While driving 40 mph at 80,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Smoke emitting from under hood; Fire sparks visible at passenger side headlight wiring; Fire advancing toward engine
Repairs/costs cited: Owner extinguished fire; no professional repair documented.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer representative inspected but could not determine cause and offered no assistance.
PCM/computer communication failure
Engine control module (PCM/ECM) loses communication or fails intermittently, generating general diagnostic codes. Multiple owners report diagnostic scans reveal U0100 code (lost communication with ECM). Some cases show multiple vague codes after diagnostics. Replacement PCM units installed but fail to resolve stalling or electrical issues.
When: Issues began around 31,000 miles in one case; others at 75,000–125,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: U0100 and P0700 codes present; Engine stalling; Loss of acceleration; Multiple vague PCM fault codes after diagnostics; Check engine light illumination
Codes mentioned: U0100 (Lost communication with ECM/PCM), P0700 (Transmission control system malfunction)
Repairs/costs cited: PCM/computer replaced multiple times (narrative #19 mentions two different transmission control modules installed). Software flashing/updates performed. Replacements often ineffective.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers performed PCM flashing to latest software version (narrative #17). No other documented TSBs or recalls addressing PCM issues.
Transmission control module and throttle control malfunction
Communication failure or malfunction between throttle control module and engine control module (ECM), or transmission control module failure. Vehicle experiences stalling, loss of acceleration, and jerking. Multiple transmission control module replacements documented without resolution.
When: Occurred within days of airbag recall service in one case (narrative #14). Other cases at various mileages.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle stalls at lights and while driving; Loss of acceleration when throttle depressed; Jerking/hesitation while driving; Engine sputtering
Codes mentioned: U0100 (ECM/transmission communication failure implied)
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission control modules replaced (two different modules in one case, narrative #19). Spark plugs replaced, transmission fluid flushed. Multiple repairs without success.
Wiring harness defects and poor electrical connections
Poor-quality wiring harnesses cited by multiple repair facilities as likely cause of widespread electrical issues. One case involved burned wires in fuse box. Rear wiring harness (fuse block to PCM/brain box connection) replacement performed but problem recurred. Consensus among repair shops that Dodge is 'known for' poor wiring harnesses.
When: Issues begin early in vehicle ownership, some within warranty period. One case at 31,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Intermittent electrical failures; Burned wires in fuse box; Gauge and light flickering; Engine stalling tied to electrical issues; Multiple electrical component failures
Repairs/costs cited: Rear wiring harness replacement (fuse block to PCM) performed; estimated cost ~$500. Replacements did not permanently resolve issues.
Alarm/security system failure
Security/alarm system malfunction preventing vehicle from starting or causing unexpected shutoff. One case involved aftermarket LoJack device (installed by bank) causing shutdown; dealer could not assist due to aftermarket equipment. Another involved dealer-removed security system followed by engine stalling problems.
When: One case at 75,000 miles; timing of others not specified.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not start; Unexpected vehicle shutoff; Multiple tow truck calls required
Repairs/costs cited: LoJack device removal implied necessary. One case involved removal of security system by dealership.
Synthesized from 100 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
When driving on the interstate at 70 miles per hour the car stalled like it was loosing power and the started back like everything was fine the car started doing this many times while driving also when at a stop sign or stop lights it will just die most the time it will start right back up or may take a few min and when sitting in park the oil light come on and just beeps non stop the interior…
My car has been stalling intermittently. But lately it's becoming more frequent. I've taken it to 3 different repair shops. Diagnostics shows P0700 and U1000 codes. The last shop charged me 150 dollars just to tell me that they don't know what's causing my car to stall. So I'm kind of lost here. Please help me.
Tl* the contact owns a 2006 Dodge charger. The contact stated that there were several failures that progressed within months of owning the vehicle. The vehicle stalled several times and the instrument panel warning indicators and gauges flickered. When there was a loss of power, the doors would automatically lock and were unable to open. In addition ,the brakes failed to function properly when…
Had electrical trouble with your 2006 Dodge Charger?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2006 Dodge Charger?
It's a serious issue. 100 complaints have been filed, including 3 reports involving a crash and 1 fatality(ies). We've classified it as critical based on NHTSA's reported outcomes.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 83 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 72,000 and 126,000 miles, with the median around 98,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 72,000; a quarter make it past 126,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2006/Dodge/Charger.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.