2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi Lifter Noise Diagnosis

Is your 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi engine producing an unsettling ticking or tapping sound? This distinct 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi lifter noise is a common concern for owners and technicians alike, often signaling an issue within the engine's valvetrain, specifically with the hydraulic roller lifters. Addressing this noise promptly is crucial, as ignoring it can lead to more severe engine damage and costly repairs.

What drivers notice on this 2020 Dodge Charger

Drivers of the 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi typically first notice a persistent ticking or tapping sound emanating from the engine bay. This noise can vary in intensity and may be more pronounced under certain conditions:

• Cold Start: The noise is often loudest immediately after a cold start, sometimes diminishing slightly as the engine warms up.
• Acceleration: The ticking might become more rapid and louder with increased engine RPMs.
• Idle: A consistent, rhythmic tick can be heard at idle, particularly when standing outside the vehicle or with the hood open.
• Engine Performance: In more severe cases, drivers might also experience a slight loss of power, rough idle, or even a misfire, which could trigger the check engine light.

At a glance: difficulty, repair cost, and diagnostic workflow

• Difficulty Rating: 6/10 — Moderate
• Common Symptoms: Audible Ticking/Tapping Noise: The most obvious symptom, often described as a metallic tap, originating from the top or ; Misfire Codes: An illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL) accompanied by P030X (e.g., P0301 for cylinder 1) misfire codes, ; Reduced Engine Power: The engine may feel sluggish or less responsive, especially under acceleration.; Rough Idle: The engine might run unevenly or vibrate more noticeably at idle.
• Estimated Repair Cost: $100–$900 (parts + typical shop labor)
• OEM Tooling Required: Standard OBD-II scanner and hand tools

Diagnostic workflow:

1. Confirm the symptom on your vehicle.
2. Scan for stored or pending codes with an OBD-II tool.
3. Inspect the most common causes in this guide (visual checks first).
4. Run verification tests before replacing parts.
5. Repair, clear codes, and verify on a test drive.

Symptoms and warning signs

Beyond the primary ticking sound, several other symptoms and warning signs can accompany a failing hydraulic lifter in your 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi:

• Audible Ticking/Tapping Noise: The most obvious symptom, often described as a metallic tap, originating from the top or sides of the engine.
• Misfire Codes: An illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL) accompanied by P030X (e.g., P0301 for cylinder 1) misfire codes, as a collapsed lifter can prevent a valve from opening or closing correctly.
• Reduced Engine Power: The engine may feel sluggish or less responsive, especially under acceleration.
• Rough Idle: The engine might run unevenly or vibrate more noticeably at idle.
• Increased Oil Consumption: While not always directly linked, severe lifter or camshaft wear can sometimes be associated with other engine issues that increase oil consumption.

How to verify and confirm the issue

Confirming that the noise is indeed a lifter issue on your 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi involves a systematic approach:

• Listen with a Stethoscope: Use an automotive stethoscope to pinpoint the exact location of the noise. Place it on different areas of the valve covers and engine block. A distinct, localized tick often points to a specific lifter or valve train component.
• Check Oil Level and Condition: Ensure the engine oil is at the correct level and isn't excessively dirty or thin. Low oil pressure or contaminated oil can directly impact lifter operation.
• Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Connect an OBD-II scanner to check for any stored or pending misfire codes (P030X). A persistent misfire on a single cylinder often correlates with a failing lifter on that cylinder, especially if the noise is also localized there.
• Visual Inspection (Valve Covers Off): If the noise is significant and persistent, removing the valve covers can allow for visual inspection of the rocker arms and pushrods. Look for excessive play, wear, or damage. While you can't see the lifters directly without further disassembly, issues with these components can indicate a deeper problem.
• Cylinder Drop Test (for misfires): If misfire codes are present, a mechanic can perform a cylinder drop test using a diagnostic scanner to isolate the affected cylinder and confirm if the misfire is mechanical.

Common causes (most likely first)

The 5.7 Hemi engine, particularly those equipped with the Multi-Displacement System (MDS), is prone to specific issues that lead to lifter noise:

• Collapsed Hydraulic Roller Lifters: This is the most prevalent cause. The hydraulic lifters can lose their ability to maintain proper lash due to internal wear, sludge, or oil pressure issues. On MDS-equipped engines, the lifters designed to deactivate cylinders can be particularly susceptible to failure.
• Worn Camshaft Lobes: A collapsed lifter can cause accelerated wear on the corresponding camshaft lobe. If the lobe is worn flat, the lifter will not be able to follow the cam profile correctly, leading to significant noise and a misfire.
• Low or Incorrect Oil Pressure/Quality: Insufficient oil pressure or using the wrong type/viscosity of engine oil can starve the hydraulic lifters, preventing them from pumping up properly and causing them to tick. Sludge buildup from neglected oil changes can also clog lifter oil passages.
• Valve Train Component Wear: While less common than lifter or cam issues, worn rocker arms, pushrods, or valve springs can also contribute to valvetrain noise. These components work in conjunction with the lifters and can cause similar symptoms if compromised.

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Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes

Addressing the 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi lifter noise requires careful diagnosis and often significant engine work:

1. Initial Assessment: Begin by checking oil level and condition. Use a stethoscope to localize the noise. Scan for DTCs, especially misfire codes.
2. Oil System Flush (if oil quality is suspect): If the oil is extremely dirty or sludge is suspected, a professional engine flush might be attempted as a first step, though this rarely fixes a truly collapsed lifter.
3. Valve Cover Removal: If initial checks point to a mechanical issue, remove the valve covers. Visually inspect rocker arms, pushrods, and valve springs for obvious signs of wear or damage.
4. Cylinder Head Removal (for lifter/cam inspection): This is a major undertaking. To access the lifters and camshaft, the intake manifold, cylinder heads, and potentially the timing cover must be removed. This requires specialized tools and expertise.
5. Lifter and Camshaft Inspection: Once exposed, carefully inspect each lifter for signs of collapse, pitting, or roller wear. Simultaneously, inspect the corresponding camshaft lobes for excessive wear, flattening, or pitting. If a lifter has failed, the camshaft lobe it rides on is often damaged as well.
6. Replacement of Affected Components:
   • Lifters: Replace all lifters on the affected bank, or ideally, all 16 lifters, especially on MDS-equipped engines. It's often recommended to replace the lifter trays as well.
   • Camshaft: If camshaft lobes are worn, the camshaft must be replaced. Attempting to run new lifters on a worn cam will lead to rapid failure of the new lifters.
   • Associated Gaskets and Seals: Always replace cylinder head gaskets, intake manifold gaskets, valve cover gaskets, and any other seals disturbed during disassembly.
7. Reassembly and Break-in: Reassemble the engine according to OEM specifications. A proper engine break-in procedure, often involving specific oil and controlled RPMs, is crucial for new lifters and camshafts.

For detailed instructions, always refer to the specific repair guides for your vehicle.

Repair options and cost factors

The cost to repair 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi lifter noise can vary significantly based on the extent of the damage and who performs the work:

• DIY Repair (Experienced Mechanic): If you have the tools and expertise, you can save substantially on labor. Parts costs for a full set of lifters and a new camshaft can range from $500–$1500, plus gaskets and fluids. This is a highly involved job not recommended for beginners.
• Professional Repair (Independent Shop): An independent shop will typically charge $800–$1500 for labor alone, plus parts. Total costs often fall in the $1500–$2500 range if only lifters are replaced. If the camshaft also needs replacement, expect costs to climb towards $2500–$4000 due to increased labor and parts expense.
• Dealership Repair: Dealerships generally have higher labor rates. Expect costs to be at the upper end of the ranges mentioned, potentially exceeding $4000 for a comprehensive repair involving both lifters and camshaft.

Factors influencing cost include the brand of replacement parts (OEM vs. aftermarket), regional labor rates, and whether additional damage (e.g., to cylinder heads) is discovered during disassembly. For more information on your specific model, you can check out the Dodge Charger hub.

When to see a professional

While some initial diagnostic steps can be performed by a DIY enthusiast, addressing 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7 Hemi lifter noise often requires professional intervention. You should consult a qualified technician if:

• You lack the specialized tools or experience required for extensive engine disassembly and reassembly.
• The noise persists after basic checks (oil level, quality).
• Misfire codes are present, indicating a more serious mechanical issue.
• You are uncomfortable performing internal engine work, which carries a high risk of further damage if done incorrectly.
• You suspect camshaft damage, as this significantly increases the complexity and precision required for repair.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive my 2020 Dodge Charger with lifter noise?

While it might be possible to drive short distances with a minor lifter tick, it is generally not recommended for an extended period. A collapsed lifter can lead to accelerated wear on the camshaft and other valvetrain components, potentially causing catastrophic engine damage if left unaddressed.

What causes lifters to fail on a 5.7 Hemi?

Lifter failure in the 5.7 Hemi, particularly on 2020 models, is often attributed to issues with the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) lifters, which are designed to deactivate cylinders. Other common causes include poor oil maintenance leading to sludge buildup, low oil pressure, or general wear and tear over time.

Is lifter noise covered under warranty for a 2020 Charger?

For a 2020 Dodge Charger, lifter noise might be covered under the factory powertrain warranty, which typically lasts for 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. It's crucial to check your specific warranty terms and service history, as neglected maintenance could void coverage. Contact your Dodge dealership for definitive information regarding your vehicle's warranty status.

Sources and further reading

• OEM Service Manuals for 2020 Dodge Charger 5.7L Hemi
• Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to Hemi engine valvetrain noise
• Automotive repair forums and communities for Dodge Charger owners
• Certified automotive technicians specializing in Hemi engines

This information is for general guidance and not a substitute for OEM service procedures; always use a qualified technician for safety-critical work.

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