FYI: Chrysler’s iconic 5.7-liter Hemi engine, originally revived in 2003, has faced reliability issues in certain years, sparking concern among car enthusiasts.
In 2003, Chrysler reignited the automotive world by unveiling the revamped Hemi engine to American consumers after a long hiatus. The reintroduction began with the "Third Generation" Hemi—a 5.7-liter, gasoline-powered, 90-degree pushrod V8—filling the shoes of the older 5.9-liter Magnum V8 within a 2003 Dodge RAM truck. Featuring a clean seat design, the new Hemi boasted components like cast iron blocks, advanced aluminum pistons, forged connecting rods, along with an aluminum crossflow head bearing two valves and two spark plugs per cylinder. At its launch, this engine represented a cutting-edge blend of efficiency, technology, and power.
Over the next decade, Chrysler expanded the reach of this 5.7 Hemi across its platform, including vehicles like the Durango in 2004, various LX-platform models including the 300C, Charger, and Magnum, and even some of the Jeep lineup. Despite its initial success and reputation for durability, the engine did not remain without faults over time. A few persistent issues marred its standing among the automobile aficionados, with specific production years spurring the most complaints.
Notorious Issues and Production Years to Avoid
The 5.7 Hemi earned a spot among Ward’s Top 10 Engines for several years, yet it couldn’t escape criticism for certain faults. One major flaw was the notorious "hemitic," the result of a malfunctioning lifter where push rods wore down cam lobes, damaging an essential part of the engine. Additionally, the engine faced misfire problems due to premature spark plug wear and weak early exhaust manifold bolts. These technical snafus can lead to costly repairs, particularly concerning the lifter and camshaft issues, notorious for their ticking noise.
Car buyers should approach certain model years cautiously, especially those known to possess these issues. The Hemi-powered LX platform vehicles like the Magnum from 2005 and 2006 notably suffered, facing seven recalls by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and exhibiting problematic stalling and hesitation post-refueling. RAM pickups from 2011 and 2012 were also afflicted, well-known for the infamous ticking problem, with the 2012 models standing out for their unreliability.
Future of the 5.7 Hemi
Despite these considerable concerns, the 5.7 Hemi was largely a commendable engine over its tenure. Interestingly, despite rumors of its discontinuation, Stellantis has declared the engine’s return slated for 2026, sparking anticipation within the car community.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
