Engine, Fuel Economy, and Emissions for the 2010 Charger SXT

The 2010 Dodge Charger SXT sedan came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 250 horsepower. This engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The EPA estimated fuel economy at 18 miles per gallon in city driving and 25 miles per gallon on the highway, with a combined rating of 21 miles per gallon.

For emissions, the 2010 Charger SXT met the Tier 2 Bin 5 standard set by the Environmental Protection Agency. This classification means the vehicle produced nitrogen oxides and particulate matter within the limits required for that model year. The car also had a catalytic converter and evaporative emissions control system to reduce harmful exhaust.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2010 Charger SXT used a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 250 horsepower and achieved 21 miles per gallon combined fuel economy.
  • This model met EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards, which were the federal requirement for 2010 vehicles.
  • The car's weight was approximately 3,800 pounds, which affects both fuel consumption and emissions output.
  • Maintenance of the emissions control system, including the catalytic converter, was necessary to keep the vehicle compliant with environmental standards.

How the 2010 Charger SXT Compares to Other Sedans of That Year

The 2010 Charger SXT occupied the middle ground among full-size sedans. Its V6 engine was less powerful than the 5.7-liter V8 available in the Charger R/T, but more efficient. Compared to the Toyota Camry V6 of the same year, the Charger had similar horsepower but slightly lower fuel economy due to its larger frame and heavier curb weight.

The Charger SXT's emissions profile was comparable to other full-size American sedans of 2010. It produced more emissions than smaller, lighter sedans like the Honda Accord, but met the same federal standards. The difference came down to engine displacement and vehicle weight rather than technology differences.

What the Emissions Standards Mean for Owners

Tier 2 Bin 5 compliance meant the 2010 Charger SXT could be registered and driven in all 50 states without special restrictions. Some states like California had stricter standards, but the 2010 Charger SXT met those as well. The vehicle did not require special fuel or modifications to remain compliant.

Owners needed to maintain the emissions control system to keep the car compliant. A faulty oxygen sensor, damaged catalytic converter, or malfunctioning EGR valve could cause the check engine light to come on and potentially fail an emissions test in states that required one. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs of any emissions-related codes kept the vehicle within legal limits.

Fuel Tank Capacity and Range

The 2010 Charger SXT had an 18-gallon fuel tank. With the combined fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon, the car could travel roughly 378 miles on a full tank under mixed driving conditions. City driving would reduce that range to around 324 miles, while highway driving could extend it to approximately 450 miles.

Fuel consumption varied based on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. A vehicle with worn spark plugs or a clogged air filter would see lower fuel economy than the EPA estimate. Keeping the engine properly tuned helped maintain the rated efficiency.

Engine Specifications and Performance Details

The 3.5-liter V6 in the 2010 Charger SXT produced 250 horsepower at 6,400 revolutions per minute and 250 pound-feet of torque at 4,700 rpm. The five-speed automatic transmission allowed the engine to operate efficiently across a range of speeds. The engine used a timing chain rather than a timing belt, which meant it did not require replacement at a specific mileage interval like some other engines.

The engine block was cast iron, and the cylinder head was aluminum. This combination provided durability while keeping weight reasonable. The V6 configuration offered a balance between power and efficiency that made the Charger SXT suitable for both highway cruising and city driving.

Maintenance Items Related to Emissions and Fuel Economy

Several maintenance tasks directly affected how the 2010 Charger SXT performed environmentally. The spark plugs should be replaced every 30,000 miles to maintain proper combustion and fuel economy. The air filter needed replacement every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on driving conditions, as a clogged filter reduced efficiency and increased emissions.

The catalytic converter required no routine maintenance but needed replacement if damaged or if the check engine light indicated a converter fault. The oxygen sensors, which monitored exhaust composition, typically lasted 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Transmission fluid changes every 60,000 miles helped the five-speed automatic shift smoothly and maintain fuel economy. Keeping the engine properly tuned through these services ensured the vehicle stayed within its emissions standards and achieved its rated fuel economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did the 2010 Charger SXT have any recalls related to emissions?

The 2010 Charger SXT had several recalls over its lifetime, though not all were emissions-related. Some recalls addressed engine issues that could affect performance. Owners should check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website or their vehicle's service records to see which recalls applied to their specific car and whether they were completed.

Can a 2010 Charger SXT pass an emissions test?

Yes, a properly maintained 2010 Charger SXT should pass an emissions test in states that require one. The vehicle must have no check engine light, a functioning catalytic converter, and properly working oxygen sensors. If the car fails, a mechanic can read the diagnostic codes to identify which emissions system component needs repair.

What happens if I ignore an emissions-related check engine light?

Ignoring an emissions code can lead to failed emissions tests, registration denial in some states, and potential damage to the catalytic converter. A faulty oxygen sensor or EGR valve, if left unrepaired, can also reduce fuel economy and increase fuel consumption. Having the code read and the problem fixed promptly prevents these issues.

Is the 2010 Charger SXT more or less efficient than a V8 Charger?

The V6 SXT is significantly more efficient than the V8 models. The V8 Charger R/T achieved around 16 miles per gallon combined, compared to the SXT's 21 miles per gallon. The V6 also produced lower emissions due to its smaller displacement and lighter load on the engine.