2020 Charger Uconnect Screen Freezing and Blackouts - Electrical Glitch?

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Kevin B. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:45 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Dodge Charger R/T

Hey everyone,

I'm having a really frustrating issue with the Uconnect system in my 2020 Dodge Charger R/T. Lately, the screen has been freezing up completely, sometimes going totally black for a few minutes before coming back on. It's intermittent, but it seems to be happening more frequently now.

When it freezes, I lose all audio, navigation, and climate controls through the screen. The physical buttons for volume and tuning still work, but nothing on the touchscreen responds. I've tried turning the car off and on again, which sometimes helps, but it's not a consistent fix.

Has anyone else experienced this with their 2020 Charger or similar Dodge models? I'm wondering if it's a known software bug or if it could be something more serious like a faulty module or wiring issue. Any advice on what to check or try would be greatly appreciated before I take it to the dealership.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Uconnect system issues, such as freezing or black screens, are not uncommon and can stem from several electrical or software-related causes. Here's a structured approach to diagnose and potentially resolve the problem:

  1. Perform a Uconnect Soft Reset:

    • With the vehicle running, press and hold the Volume and Tune knobs (or Mute and Browse/Enter depending on your specific Uconnect version) simultaneously for about 10-20 seconds. The screen should go black and then restart, similar to rebooting a computer. This often resolves minor software glitches.
  2. Check Relevant Fuses:

    • Locate your vehicle's fuse box (typically under the hood or in the passenger footwell). Consult your owner's manual to identify the fuse(s) for the radio/infotainment system (often labeled 'Radio,' 'Uconnect,' 'Infotainment,' or 'AMP').
    • Carefully remove and inspect these fuses. Look for a broken wire inside the fuse. If a fuse is blown, replace it with one of the exact same amperage. A blown fuse indicates an electrical surge or short, which might point to a deeper issue.
  3. Battery Disconnect/Reconnect:

    • Disconnect the negative terminal of your vehicle's battery for 15-30 minutes. This can perform a deeper reset of all vehicle modules, including the Uconnect system. Ensure the vehicle is off and parked safely before attempting this. Reconnect the terminal securely.

Potential Causes:

  • Software Glitch: The most common cause, often resolved by a soft reset or a dealer-performed software update.
  • Faulty Head Unit: The Uconnect module itself might be failing, requiring replacement.
  • Wiring Issue: Loose or corroded connections to the head unit or related modules can cause intermittent power or data loss.
  • Overheating: Less common, but prolonged use in hot conditions could contribute to temporary malfunctions.

When to See a Shop: If the soft reset, fuse check, and battery disconnect do not resolve the issue, or if the problem recurs frequently, it's time to visit a certified Dodge service center. They have specialized diagnostic tools (like WiTECH) that can read internal Uconnect system codes (which are different from standard OBD-II codes) and perform necessary software updates or hardware replacements. Persistent electrical issues can sometimes indicate a more complex problem that requires professional diagnosis.