Top Dodge Charger/Challenger DIY Upgrades You Can Do at Home

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Performance modifications are common for muscle car enthusiasts, but did you know you can elevate your driving experience even further with these vehicle upgrades for your Dodge Charger/Challenger? Your Dodge muscle car is more than just a car; it's a statement. To make it truly yours, consider these upgrades that reflect you and your style.

Upgraded Stereo Head Unit

A stereo head unit serves as the central control hub for your car's audio system. It is responsible for playing & controlling audio, displaying information, and connecting to other components. Here are some ways an upgraded head unit can make sense for you:

Modern Technology: Newer head units offer advanced features like large display touchscreens, smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth), navigation systems, and 4 camera video inputs. Stinger's HEIGH10 infotainment stereo for the Dodge Charger/Challenger (2015-23) really makes a statement with its a massive 10" display.

Improved Audio Quality & Customizable Settings: Many aftermarket head units provide superior sound quality compared to factory systems, with better audio processing and support for higher-quality audio formats. You can personalize your audio experience with customizable settings like EQ presets, sound staging, and subwoofer controls.

Vehicle Performance Tracking: The HEIGH10 infotainment stereo integrates vehicle performance tracking into the system with real-time tracking of your:

This feature allows you to benchmark your car's performance against specific goals and track your progress towards them. This tracking will be helpful if you plan on implementing performance modifications like engine tunes, air intake systems, exhaust systems, or suspension upgrades. You’ll be able to identify which performance modifications impact your vehicle the most.

Integrated Vehicle Gauges: The customizable integrated gauges on the HEIGH10 provide real-time information on various vehicle parameters in a single, easy-to-read display such as intake air temperature, oil pressure, engine torque, fuel pressure, and more. This information helps you stay informed about your vehicle's condition and can provide early warning signs of potential problems, allowing you to take corrective action before a breakdown occurs. With access to real-time info, you can also adjust your driving style to optimize fuel efficiency and engine performance on the fly.

HEIGH10 Disclaimer:
- Not compatible in SRT or Hellcat trim levels
- Not compatible in 2015 model year vehicles equipped with drive modes
- Does not retain Launch Control with Launch RPM
- Does not retain Launch Control Timers on vehicles multi-function display
- Does not retain Line Lock
- Does not retain G-Force status on radio (still on instrument cluster)

Audio System Enhancements

An aftermarket sound system provides a significant upgrade to your car's audio experience and offers more customizations, features, power, and better aesthetics than many OEM systems.

Premium Sound System: If you are planning on making upgrades to your vehicle, the car sound system is usually high on the list for most drivers. Installing an aftermarket audio system with high-quality speakers, amplifier, and subwoofer will result in a truly immersive listening experience. An OEM audio system typically cannot offer the same auditory experience as an aftermarket system. If you consider yourself an audiophile, your car’s sound system will likely be the first thing you upgrade. If you are unfamiliar with car audio systems, we have a guide on building an aftermarket sound system here.

Sound Damping (Deadening): Muscle cars like the Charger/Challenger often produce a lot of noise. You can reduce excessive noise and improve audio clarity by adding sound damping materials to the interior. For a more in-depth breakdown of sound damping, check out our sound damping guide here.

Custom LED Lighting

The most noticeable modification you can make to a vehicle is to install LED lighting to create a personalized and stylish atmosphere.

LED Strip Lights: LED light strips can be installed almost anywhere on your vehicle, but the most popular areas are under the dash, doors, seats, and underbody (underglow). Enhance your car's visibility during nighttime driving, with underbody lighting or interior accents. Create unique and eye-catching looks to your car with customizable colors and patterns.
Rock Lights: Previously, the primary function of rock lights was for off-roading, but now many car owners enjoy installing them in their wheel wells to give their vehicle a more distinctive and eye-catching appearance. Like LED light strips, you can choose from a variety of RGB colors and patterns to match your personal style. Read our rock lights guide here.

Interior Parts and Accessories

Upgrading your interior parts and accessories requires less time and effort than updating other components and can have a substantial impact on your vehicle’s style and personality. The following sites offer many interior upgrade options and are not affiliated with Stinger in any way: American Muscle, Carbon Addons, Fast Hemis.

Custom Trim: Replace the factory trim with carbon fiber, wood, or metal accents for a more upscale look.
Steering Wheel Covers: Customize your steering wheel with a new cover. Steering wheel covers often have a textured surface that provides better grip, reducing the risk of slipping and the added padding can make your steering wheel more comfortable during long drives.
Pedal Covers: Pedal covers can give your car's interior a more sporty or luxurious look. They often come in a variety of colors, materials, and styles, allowing you to personalize your vehicle. Some pedal covers come with a textured surface that provides better grip, reducing the risk of slipping.
Floor Mats: Floor mats extend your carpet’s life by shielding it from dirt, mud, spills, and other stains. They can also add a touch of style and sophistication to your car's interior, accentuating its personality.
Seat Covers: Like floor mats, seat covers offer protection to the original material and come in a variety of colors and textures to match your personal style.