To safeguard a Dodge Charger against theft, several measures can be implemented: ensure to park in a well-lit and secure location, utilize a steering wheel lock, install an aftermarket alarm system, consider activating a vehicle tracking system via Uconnect, consistently lock your vehicle and carry your keys with you, and potentially incorporate a locking OBD port cover to hinder unauthorized key reprogramming.
This is particularly important as Dodge Chargers, especially the high-performance variants, are frequently targeted by thieves due to their popularity and the relative ease of theft.
Dodge has introduced three innovative security features aimed at safeguarding vehicle owners against theft. These features include the Enhanced Security Mode, Key Programming Lockdown, and the Intrusion Module.
The Enhanced Security Mode enables the owner to input a 4-digit code that restricts engine output to under 3 horsepower.
This feature will be available starting Monday for the 2021 model year Challengers and Chargers. The Key Programming Lockdown feature prevents unauthorized individuals from programming new keys and is set to be available for 2020 and 2021 models as early as October, with a commitment from the company to have it operational by January 2022.
Following the implementation of the 2020 and 2021 models, Dodge plans to extend this software to cover the 2015 through 2019 model years, adding a new year every six weeks.
The Intrusion Module is designed to detect glass breakage, movement within the vehicle, and changes in vehicle inclination, triggering the alarm in response to any disturbances. This module will be standard in the 2022 model year for vehicles equipped with the 392 and SRT® Hellcat HEMI® engines, and it will also be available for V6 and 5.7-liter models.
For those who prefer immediate security enhancements, Mopar® currently provides the Electronic Vehicle Tracking System, which can be purchased and installed in any contemporary Dodge vehicle.
Key preventative strategies include:
Secure Parking:
Always choose a well-lit area for parking, preferably a garage, and ensure your vehicle is properly locked.
Visible Deterrents:
Employ a visible steering wheel lock to discourage potential thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle.
Aftermarket Alarm System:
Install a dependable car alarm system equipped with motion sensors and loud sirens.
Uconnect Tracking:
If your Charger is equipped with Uconnect, activate the vehicle tracking feature to assist in locating your car if it is stolen.
Key Management:
Avoid leaving your keys inside the vehicle and be cautious about where you place your key fob.
OBD Port Cover:
Consider the addition of a locking OBD port cover to prevent thieves from easily accessing the vehicle’s computer system for key reprogramming.
Challenger and Charger Theft
Owners of Dodge Challengers and Chargers may have encountered numerous articles highlighting the increasing theft rates of these contemporary Mopar muscle cars. Some narratives have exaggerated the situation, suggesting that these models are the sole targets of theft, even though they represent less than 0.2% of all vehicle thefts annually. Since 2016, approximately 6,000 Challengers and Chargers have been reported stolen in the United States. While this figure may appear significant, it is essential to note that around 3.75 million vehicles were stolen nationwide during the same five-year span, as criminals exploit the vulnerabilities of vehicles equipped with keyless entry and push-button ignition systems.
Despite the Challenger and Charger comprising a mere fraction of the total thefts over the past five years, the extensive media coverage surrounding models with appealing names like “Scat Pack” and “Hellcat” has resulted in a disproportionate number of articles focused on the theft of these specific Dodge vehicles. This heightened attention has understandably caused concern among many modern Mopar muscle car enthusiasts, while simultaneously placing pressure on Dodge to enhance protective measures against vehicle theft.
In response to the worries expressed by owners, Dodge has taken proactive steps to develop a range of solutions aimed at safeguarding the Challenger and Charger from theft. Recently, we had the opportunity to engage with representatives from the Dodge Brand, who provided insights into the new security enhancements designed for these contemporary Mopar muscle cars.
The Methods Employed by Thieves to Steal Modern Dodge Vehicles
The Dodge Challenger, Charger, and other contemporary automobiles equipped with keyless entry and push-button start systems operate through a key fob mechanism. This key fob communicates with the vehicle via radio frequency whenever a button is pressed, while also continuously emitting a signal that indicates its proximity to the car.
Regrettably, after breaking a window to access the vehicle’s interior and electrical components, criminals utilize a device to program a new key fob. Once this is accomplished, they can unlock the doors, start the engine, and drive away as if they possessed the original key.
In response to this growing concern and various other theft methods, Dodge has developed a set of three solutions specifically for the Challenger and Charger, aimed at thwarting car thieves effectively.
Enhanced Security Mode
Earlier this year, the Dodge brand revealed its intention to introduce the Enhanced Security Mode, which serves as a replacement for the conventional Valet Mode. When activated using a 4-digit code via the radio head unit, this software maintains the engine at idle speed, restricting the output to a mere 2.8 horsepower. With such limited power, it becomes nearly impossible for thieves to drive away with the vehicle, even if they possess a key.
This feature is set to be officially launched on Monday, August 16, for the 2021 models of the Challenger and Charger equipped with either the 392-cubic inch or supercharged SRT Hellcat HEMI engines. The installation of the Enhanced Security Mode is a straightforward process that involves a dealer reflash and is provided at no cost to vehicle owners. Additionally, this mode can be reversed should owners wish to revert to the original Valet Mode.
While this measure effectively hinders a thief’s ability to make a quick escape in the vehicle, it does not completely thwart their efforts. Consequently, Dodge has developed two additional, more stringent options for Challenger and Charger owners who seek to ensure that no unauthorized key duplication occurs in an attempt to steal their cherished Mopar muscle car.
Key Programming Lockdown
As previously stated, sophisticated thieves exploit the vehicle’s electrical system to program a new key. In response to this issue, Dodge has introduced the Key Programming Lockdown. This feature effectively secures the in-car segment of the key system, thereby preventing unauthorized individuals from generating a new key fob while still allowing vehicle owners to maintain all standard functionalities, which represents an effective strategy for enhancing vehicle security.
However, there is a notable drawback to the Key Programming Lockdown. The same procedure utilized by dealerships to create new keys for the Challenger or Charger is also employed in this lockdown process. Consequently, if the lockdown is activated, owners will be unable to obtain a new key unless they purchase a new module, which is priced at $159. Therefore, in the event of losing all keys, one must acquire both new keys and a new module before the key can be reprogrammed.
Dodge acknowledges that the inability to reprogram new keys may lead to complications in the future. To mitigate this, when owners bring their Challenger or Charger in for the software installation through a reflash of the computer system, they have the option to have up to two keys made at a reduced price.
The company is dedicated to making the Key Programming Lockdown available by January 2022, with an initial rollout targeted for October 2021.
Initially, this solution will be accessible for 2020 and 2021 model-year vehicles, but following the initial launch, Dodge intends to release software updates approximately every six weeks to accommodate additional model years, extending back to the 2015 model year. This will apply to all Challengers and Chargers, irrespective of the engine type.
Lastly, while this solution is currently being developed for the Challenger and Charger, the Dodge team is aware of the growing demand for enhanced security among Durango owners. The company plans to announce the Key Programming Lockdown for the spacious SUV shortly.
Intrusion Module
Dodge has introduced a new security feature known as the Intrusion Module, set to be available for the 2022 model year of the Challenger and Charger. This system will be standard on the Scat Pack and SRT Hellcat variants, while it will be offered as an option for the SXT, GT, and R/T models.
The Intrusion Module is designed to detect any breakage of windows or movement within the vehicle, and it includes an inclination sensor. In the event of a window being shattered, someone reaching through an open window, or an attempt to tow the vehicle, the alarm will activate similarly to many well-known aftermarket alarm systems.
This feature can be disabled through the radio head unit, which is particularly useful when parking the vehicle with occupants inside or when transporting the Challenger or Charger in a trailer.
When the Intrusion Module is combined with the Key Programming Lockdown, it effectively prevents thieves from creating a new key or breaking into or towing away a Dodge Challenger or Charger without triggering the alarm.
In conclusion, owners of the 2021 Challenger or Charger will have the opportunity to upgrade to the Enhanced Security Mode starting Monday. For those with 2020 or 2021 models, the Key Programming Lockdown system may be available as early as October, while owners of muscle cars from 2015 to 2019 can expect this system to be accessible early next year. The 2022 models will come equipped with the Intrusion Module as either a standard or optional feature.
Mopar Electronic Vehicle Tracking System
For those seeking enhanced security measures, Mopar presents the Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS). Priced at $495, this system delivers advanced tracking capabilities that surpass those of the standard UConnect® Guardian system.
Notably, it cannot be deactivated via the UConnect interface and features geofencing, allowing you to oversee your vehicle’s movements when it is being operated by another individual. While this system does not prevent theft of your Dodge, in the event of disappearance, the Mopar EVTS offers real-time tracking services through Guidepoint Systems.
The Mopar Electronic Vehicle Tracking System is not limited to specific models, enabling installation and monitoring on any contemporary Dodge vehicle.
Conclusion
Preventing your Dodge Charger from being stolen requires a combination of smart security measures and vigilance. Using factory anti-theft features, installing additional security devices like steering wheel locks, GPS trackers, and kill switches, and parking in secure, well-lit areas can significantly reduce the risk of theft.
With Dodge Chargers being a high-target vehicle, staying proactive and layering multiple security methods ensures better protection. By taking these steps, you can safeguard your car and enjoy peace of mind.
FAQs:
How to protect the Dodge charger from being stolen?
Piranha Plug has been designed to ensure that both the charger and the cord remain securely attached. The charging cube and the cord are effectively locked in place.
Are Dodge Chargers stolen often?
According to a recent report, the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat ranks as the most frequently stolen vehicle in the United States, being 60 times more susceptible to theft than any other car on the road.
How do I be sure my car never gets stolen?
Ensure Your Doors Are Locked.
Remove Your Keys from the Vehicle.
Avoid Leaving a Spare Key in Proximity to Your Vehicle.
Keep Windows Closed.
Park in Well-Lit Locations.
Install an Audible Alarm System and Anti-Theft Device.
Implement a Vehicle Immobilizer System.
Utilize a Tracking System.
Can you track a stolen Dodge charger?
The Uconnect Care Agent will request the stolen vehicle report number provided by local law enforcement. Utilizing GPS technology and the vehicle’s built-in wireless connection, the Uconnect Care Agent can locate the stolen vehicle and collaborate with law enforcement for its recovery.
How do I protect my charger?
Employing a protective case for your chargers is an effective method to shield them from tangling, dirt, moisture, and other forms of damage. Even at home, storing unused chargers in cases aids in maintaining organization, preventing tangles, and protecting them from dust.
