Thinking about customizing your 2016 Dodge Charger RT? Whether you want to turn heads on the street or simply add a personal touch, upgrading this iconic muscle car can be both thrilling and rewarding. Knowing how to customize your Charger effectively ensures you get the look and performance you want—without costly mistakes.
In this article, you’ll find clear steps, practical tips, and creative ideas tailored to the 2016 Charger RT, helping you bring your vision to life.
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How to Custom Build a 2016 Dodge Charger R/T
The 2016 Dodge Charger R/T is a powerful, charismatic sedan that stands out for both its muscle car pedigree and blend of modern comfort. Many Charger owners want to make their ride unique—adding extra performance, attitude, or style. If you’re asking “how do I custom a 2016 Dodge Charger R/T?”, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, from first mods to ambitious custom builds.
Why Customizing Your Charger R/T is So Popular
Owners love to customize their Charger R/T for several reasons:
- Personalization: Your Charger reflects your personality and taste.
- Performance: Many upgrades provide sharper acceleration, improved handling, or a more thrilling soundtrack.
- Resale Value: Well-chosen modifications can make your car more attractive to buyers.
- Community: There’s a vast community of Charger enthusiasts who share project ideas, advice, and inspiration.
Where to Begin: Planning Your Custom Charger
Customizing isn’t just about bolting on the shiniest part you find. A thoughtful approach ensures your upgrades work together and fit your budget.
1. Set Your Goals
Ask yourself:
- Is your focus appearance, performance, or both?
- Do you want subtle improvements or a head-turning show car?
- What’s your budget (including installation and future upgrades)?
2. Decide on Your Priorities
Most owners break customization into three categories:
- Aesthetic mods – Body kits, wheels, custom lights.
- Performance mods – Intake, exhaust, tuning.
- Interior upgrades – Seats, tech, finishes.
It’s smart to start with one area, polish it, then move to the next.
Top Customization Areas for the 2016 Charger R/T
1. Exterior Mods for Head-Turning Looks
Body Kits and Aero Upgrades
Body kits dramatically change the look of your Charger, making it more aggressive or streamlined.
- Front/Rear Bumpers: Swap factory bumpers for custom ones with larger vents, diffusers, or splitters.
- Side Skirts: Add a lowered stance and improved aerodynamics.
- Spoilers & Lips: Give a performance-inspired finish.
Custom Grilles and Lighting
- Aftermarket grilles offer unique designs, from mesh patterns to blackout finishes.
- LED or Halo headlights and taillights modernize the appearance and improve visibility.
Wheels and Tires
Changing the wheels is one of the most impactful visual upgrades:
- Larger diameter or wider wheels fill out wheel wells.
- Custom finishes (chrome, matte, color-matched).
- Performance tires can also improve handling.
Appearance Accessories
- Vinyl wraps or stripes: Easily add color accents or racing stripes.
- Blackout badges and trim: For a stealthier, sportier style.
2. Performance Upgrades
Bringing out the Charger R/T’s muscle car soul is all about performance mods. Here’s where most owners start:
Intake and Exhaust
- Cold Air Intake (CAI): Improves engine breathing for a small power boost and a throaty sound.
- Cat-Back Exhaust: Unlocks horsepower and deepens exhaust notes. Brands like Dynomax are popular for their aggressive yet refined tone.
- Headers: Replacing exhaust manifolds boosts power, especially if combined with full exhaust upgrades.
Electronic Tuning
- ECU Tunes: Flash the car’s computer for sharper throttle response, more horsepower, and sometimes better fuel efficiency.
- Remote tuning: Some shops offer custom tunes you can flash yourself—a great option for blending reliability and performance.
Suspension Upgrades
- Lowering springs or coilovers: Reduce body roll and improve cornering stance.
- Upgraded anti-roll bars and bushings: Sharpen handling further.
Brake and Drivetrain Mods
- Big brake kits: Add stopping power for high-performance driving.
- Limited slip differentials: Help put more power down when exiting corners.
3. Interior Enhancements
Give your cabin the same care as your exterior:
- Custom seat covers or performance seats for more grip and comfort.
- Upgraded stereos and infotainment systems for better connectivity and sound.
- Carbon fiber or brushed metal trim replaces standard plastics for a more upscale feel.
- Custom floor mats and ambient lighting personalize your space.
Steps for Planning and Executing Your Build
- Research and Inspiration
- Browse Charger forums and photo galleries for mod ideas.
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Make a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves.
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Budgeting
- Research parts and labor costs.
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Factor in shipping, especially for large items like body kits.
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Start Small, Finish Big
- Begin with easy bolt-ons (wheels, intake, exhaust).
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Move to complex mods (tuning, suspension, body kits) as time and funds allow.
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Work With Reputable Shops
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Many mods can be DIY, but for bodywork or electrical upgrades, professional help ensures a perfect finish.
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Test and Refine
- After major changes (suspension, tuning), test the car.
- Check for fitment, reliability, and if you like the results.
Tips and Best Practices
- Plan for Compatibility: Mixing mods from different brands? Check that they play well together.
- Don’t Skimp on Tires: Performance tires make a world of difference.
- Keep Original Parts: If you ever want to revert to stock, having the originals helps.
- Stay Legal: Check local regulations on exhaust noise, lights, and ride height.
- Join a Community: Charger groups online or at local meets are great resources for tips, troubleshooting, and inspiration.
Cost-Saving Tips (Including Shipping)
Customizing isn’t cheap, but the right strategies help you get more for your money:
- Bundle Orders: Many online retailers offer discounts or reduced shipping if you buy multiple items together.
- Watch for Sales: Sign up for newsletters from aftermarket parts stores for exclusive deals.
- Compare Shops: Prices and shipping rates vary—take time to check several sources.
- Consider Used Parts: Forums and classified sections often have high-quality, gently used mods at a fraction of retail price.
- DIY When Safe: Installing certain parts yourself (like intakes or taillights) saves on labor costs.
Key Challenges When Customizing Your Charger
- Fitment Issues: Aftermarket parts sometimes need minor tweaks to fit perfectly.
- Warranty Concerns: Major mods (like engine tunes) may affect warranty coverage.
- Resale Value: Extreme visual mods may not be to everyone’s taste; subtle, “OEM+” mods are safest for resale.
- Hidden Costs: Don’t overlook costs like alignment after suspension work, or professional paint for body kits.
Final Thoughts: Building Your Dream 2016 Charger R/T
Customizing a 2016 Dodge Charger R/T is about more than looks or performance—it’s about making a statement. Whether your goal is a head-turning show car, a fierce weekend warrior, or a daily driver with flair, planning, quality parts, and smart execution are your best friends. Use your imagination, be patient, and enjoy the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to customize a 2016 Dodge Charger R/T?
Total costs vary widely. A basic exterior upgrade (like wheels, badges, and a CAI) might cost $2,000-$3,000. Full performance upgrades or body kits can push the total above $10,000. Shipping, taxes, and labor can add significantly—plan up front.
Will modifications void my Dodge warranty?
Some modifications, especially engine tuning or forced induction, can affect your warranty. Bolt-ons like intakes or cat-back exhausts usually don’t, but always check your warranty terms before making changes.
What’s the best first mod for a Charger R/T?
Most owners recommend starting with a cat-back exhaust for the sound and slight power bump. Wheels and a cold air intake are also easy and satisfying beginner upgrades.
Can I return my Charger to stock after customizing?
Yes, as long as you’ve kept your original parts and haven’t made irreversible changes. It’s a good idea to store take-off parts for this reason.
How can I ensure aftermarket parts fit my 2016 Charger R/T?
Always double-check that a part is listed for your specific model year and trim. Look for buyer reviews or forum threads discussing fitment. Trusted vendors and brands are more likely to have precise, reliable products.
With these ideas, tips, and steps, you’re well on your way to building a 2016 Dodge Charger R/T that’s truly your own. Enjoy the process, and happy modding!