Engine and Fuel Economy for the 2017 Dodge Charger SXT

The 2017 Dodge Charger SXT sedan comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 292 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The EPA estimates fuel economy at 19 miles per gallon in the city, 31 miles per gallon on the highway, and 24 miles per gallon combined when the vehicle is driven under normal conditions.

The fuel tank holds 18.5 gallons, which means a combined-driving range of roughly 444 miles on a full tank. Real-world fuel economy varies based on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance — aggressive acceleration and highway driving at high speeds will lower these figures.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2017 Charger SXT uses a 3.6-liter V6 engine rated at 19 city / 31 highway / 24 combined miles per gallon by the EPA.
  • The vehicle requires regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) and holds 18.5 gallons of fuel.
  • Emissions compliance for this model year meets EPA Tier 2 standards and California Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards if sold in California.
  • Maintenance items like air filter replacement and proper tire inflation directly affect both fuel economy and emissions performance.

Emissions Standards and Compliance

The 2017 Dodge Charger SXT meets EPA Tier 2 emissions standards, which set limits on nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and other pollutants. If the vehicle was sold in California or another state that follows California's stricter rules, it also meets California Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards. You can find which standard your specific vehicle meets by checking the emissions label under the hood or in your owner's manual.

The vehicle is equipped with a catalytic converter and an onboard diagnostic system (OBD-II) that monitors emissions equipment. If the check engine light comes on, it typically signals that the diagnostic system has detected an issue with emissions control — this should be scanned with a diagnostic tool to identify the specific problem.

What Affects Real-World Fuel Economy

EPA estimates assume a mix of city and highway driving under controlled conditions. Your actual fuel economy will differ based on several factors you control. Aggressive acceleration and braking, idling, and driving at highway speeds above 55 mph all reduce efficiency. Cold weather also lowers fuel economy because the engine runs richer until it reaches operating temperature.

Tire pressure has a measurable effect — underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and can reduce fuel economy by up to 3 percent. Check your tire pressure monthly and inflate to the pressure listed on the driver's door jamb (not the maximum pressure on the tire itself). A clogged air filter and worn spark plugs will also reduce efficiency and increase emissions.

Maintenance Items That Impact Emissions

Several routine maintenance tasks directly affect how your 2017 Charger SXT performs on emissions tests and in daily operation. The engine air filter should be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on driving conditions — a dirty filter restricts airflow and causes the engine to run rich, which increases emissions and lowers fuel economy.

Spark plugs on the 3.6-liter V6 typically last 30,000 miles. Worn plugs cause misfires, which trigger the check engine light and increase tailpipe emissions. The catalytic converter should not require maintenance under normal conditions, but if it fails, the vehicle will not pass an emissions test and the check engine light will illuminate.

Fuel Type and Octane Requirements

The 2017 Charger SXT requires regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. Using lower octane fuel can cause engine knock (a pinging sound under acceleration), which triggers the engine computer to retard timing and reduce performance. Higher octane fuel (89 or 91) is not necessary and will not improve performance or fuel economy in this engine.

Fuel quality varies by station and season. Top-tier gasoline brands (those that meet EPA detergent standards) help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean, which supports emissions performance and fuel economy. Switching brands occasionally or using a fuel system cleaner additive every 3,000 to 5,000 miles can help maintain performance if you notice a drop in fuel economy.

Understanding Your Vehicle's Emissions Label

Open the hood and look for a white or yellow label on the underside of the hood or on the radiator support. This label lists the emissions standard your vehicle meets (Tier 2, LEV, or both), the engine displacement, and the vehicle's emission control equipment. The label also shows the fuel type required and sometimes includes a reference number you can use if you need to look up technical specifications.

If you are buying a used 2017 Charger SXT, ask the seller or dealer whether the vehicle was originally sold in California or another state with stricter emissions rules. This affects which emissions standard it meets and which states it can be registered in if you move. A vehicle certified to California standards can be registered anywhere, but a vehicle certified only to federal Tier 2 standards cannot be registered in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my check engine light comes on?

The check engine light indicates the onboard diagnostic system has detected a problem with the engine, emissions system, or transmission. Have the vehicle scanned with a diagnostic tool to read the specific fault code. Common causes include a loose gas cap, a faulty oxygen sensor, or a catalytic converter issue. Do not ignore it — continuing to drive may cause additional damage.

Can I use ethanol-blended fuel like E10 or E15?

The 2017 Charger SXT is designed to run on E10 (10 percent ethanol, 90 percent gasoline), which is standard at most pumps. E15 (15 percent ethanol) is not recommended for this model year. Ethanol-blended fuel can slightly reduce fuel economy but is safe to use and meets EPA standards.

How often should I get an emissions test?

Emissions testing requirements vary by state and county. Some states require annual testing, others every two years, and some do not require testing at all. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or your vehicle registration documents to find your local requirement. The 2017 Charger SXT should pass emissions testing if the check engine light is off and routine maintenance is current.

What is the difference between Tier 2 and California LEV standards?

California LEV standards are stricter than federal Tier 2 standards and limit emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter more tightly. A vehicle certified to California standards will pass in any state, but a vehicle certified only to Tier 2 standards cannot be registered in California. If you plan to move to California, verify your vehicle's certification before purchasing.