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If your Dodge Challenger is showing signs of poor exhaust flow or rising cabin noise, picking the right exhaust manifold makes a clear difference in drivability and longevity. The right manifold affects backpressure, heat management, and how efficiently exhaust gases exit the engine, so choosing carefully can reduce symptoms like ticks, loss of power, or increased emissions.This guide highlights seven shortlisted exhaust manifolds selected for Dodge Challenger owners. We evaluated each option for fit, durability, and ease of installation to help you find the best match for your vehicle. Read on to see which features to prioritize when you review the full list.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Dorman 674-922 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gaskets and Hardware |  |
| Best quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Dorman 674-905 Passenger-Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gaskets and Hardware |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Crown Automotive Exhaust Manifold Left (4666024AD) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Dorman 674-923 Passenger Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gaskets and Hardware |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Dorman 674-906 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit (includes gaskets and hardware) |  |
1. Dorman 674-922 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gaskets and Hardware
| Manufacturer | Dorman Products |
|---|---|
| Model | 674-922 |
| Position | Center |
| Exterior | Machined |
This Dorman driver-side exhaust manifold kit is a direct replacement-style manifold supplied with gaskets and downpipe hardware for a one-box repair. It is intended to restore exhaust flow and stop manifold leaks for compatible vehicles; installation typically involves removing the old manifold, swapping the included gasket set, and bolting the new unit in place. The part is reverse-engineered to match factory fitment and is machined for a consistent mating surface, which helps reduce installation fuss. Including gaskets and hardware saves a trip to the parts store and speeds up repairs. Reported issues in some units include mismatched or damaged gaskets and flange bolt holes that are threaded differently than the factory part, which can require sourcing alternate bolts or reworking holes during installation. For a balanced buyer looking for a cost-effective, complete repair solution, this manifold delivers solid fit and function most of the time but may need a little extra attention to fasteners or gasket quality during fitment.
Best for: A balanced all-round buyer who wants a budget-friendly, complete repair kit that gets a manifold replacement done quickly without sourcing separate parts.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking an exact factory-original part with guaranteed identical fasteners and packaging quality should consider a different supplier or OEM replacement.
- Includes all necessary gaskets and downpipe hardware for a single-order repair
- Precision machined mating surfaces intended to match factory fit and function
- Reverse-engineered design aims to simplify installation compared with sourcing multiple parts
- Widely compatible with many Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram applications in listed years
- Some units arrive with damaged or low-quality gaskets that owners replace before installation
- Flange bolt holes have been reported as threaded differently than factory, sometimes requiring alternate bolts or rework
- Hardware provided may not always match OE bolt lengths or thread engagement
Verdict: A cost-conscious, ready-to-install driver-side manifold kit that bundles gaskets and hardware to simplify exhaust repairs.
2. Dorman 674-905 Passenger-Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gaskets and Hardware
| Installation Type | Bolt-On |
|---|---|
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
| Manufacturer | Dorman Products |
| Exterior | Machined |
This Dorman passenger-side exhaust manifold is a direct-replacement style kit designed to restore exhaust routing and stop leaks and ticking on compatible Hemi V8 applications. It arrives with the manifold, a high-quality gasket and the downpipe bolts so a technician can complete the downpipe connection without sourcing those parts separately. In practice it is used when the factory manifold shows cracks, warping, or causes the familiar Hemi exhaust tick; installers report it lines up well and reduces header noise once installed. The machined exterior and heavier build compared with some factory pieces make it robust against warping, though a few users had to swap or lengthen some bolts and, in some cases, trim the downpipe flange to fit perfectly. The listing can be unclear about which head bolts are included so confirm your fastener needs before you start the job. For performance-minded owners seeking a durable, ready-to-install replacement, this manifold provides a practical, cost-effective fix, but expect occasional minor adjustments during installation on certain engines.
Best for: Performance-oriented owners looking to restore a Hemi’s exhaust sealing and eliminate ticking without spending on an OEM manifold, and who prioritize durability and a mostly complete repair solution.
Less Ideal for: Customers who want a guaranteed bolt‑ready installation with every fastener included or those unwilling to make minor fitment adjustments should consider alternatives or confirm needed hardware before purchase.
- Complete kit includes manifold, gasket and downpipe hardware for a one-order repair
- Machined exterior and heavier construction reduce risk of early warping compared with some worn originals
- Engineered to match factory fit and function so it restores exhaust sealing and reduces header noise
- Does not consistently include manifold-to-head bolts so additional fasteners may be required
- Some fitment instances required minor trimming or bolt length changes to align with the downpipe
- Listing details on included hardware and side orientation can be unclear which may cause ordering errors
Verdict: A robust, performance-focused replacement manifold that restores sealing and reduces Hemi tick but may require sourcing a few fasteners or small fitment tweaks during installation.
3. Crown Automotive Exhaust Manifold Left (4666024AD)
| Vehicle Service Type | Car, Truck |
|---|---|
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
| Exterior | Machined |
| Model | 4666024AD |
This Crown Automotive left exhaust manifold is a cast replacement designed to match factory fit and restore exhaust routing on a Dodge Challenger. It installs as a bolt-on unit and is intended for use when the original manifold is cracked or leaking; several buyers report it aligns well with the cylinder head and downpipe for a straightforward swap. The machined exterior and cast-steel construction give a factory-like appearance and the part is described as a direct reproduction of the OEM manifold. Practical benefits include easy fitment without modification and a lower-cost alternative to dealer parts. Limitations to consider are material longevity compared with higher-end stainless or premium aftermarket options and the listing notes universal fit language, so confirm exact year/engine compatibility before assuming a perfect match. Some installers recommend replacing hardware during reassembly to avoid seized bolts.
Best for: Practical optimizers who want a cost-conscious, factory-style replacement to get a Dodge Challenger back on the road without paying dealer prices.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a long-term performance upgrade or maximum durability under heavy track or high-boost use should consider premium stainless or reinforced aftermarket manifolds instead.
- Factory-style fit and alignment for straightforward bolt-on installation on compatible Challengers
- Cast-steel construction that reproduces original manifold shape and flange locations
- Machined finish provides a clean, factory-quality appearance
- Lower-cost alternative to dealer replacement parts
- Cast-steel design may be more prone to cracking over long-term high-heat use compared with premium stainless options
- Listing uses universal-fit wording so buyers must verify year and engine fitment before purchase
Verdict: A budget-friendly, factory-style left exhaust manifold that restores fit and function for a Dodge Challenger but may not match premium aftermarket durability.
4. Dorman 674-923 Passenger Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gaskets and Hardware
| Manufacturer Part Number | 674-923 |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Cast Iron |
| Installation Type | Bolt-On |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
This Dorman passenger-side exhaust manifold is a budget-focused replacement manufactured from cast iron and supplied with the gaskets and downpipe hardware needed for installation. It is intended as a direct-fit, bolt-on repair and is reverse-engineered to match factory mounting points so the manifold lines up with heat shields and exhaust flanges on compatible vehicles. Practical benefits include a lower cost than factory parts and the convenience of receiving all required gaskets and bolts in one box, which simplifies a one-visit repair. Reported real-world issues include occasional mis-sized threaded flange holes and variability in gasket quality, so some installers elect to replace old manifold bolts or use higher-quality gaskets for better long-term sealing. While many buyers find this manifold durable and warp-resistant, a minority have reported early cracking, so careful installation and inspection are recommended. The part is a sensible, cost-conscious option when replacing a failed passenger-side manifold, provided fitment is confirmed for your vehicle before purchase.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize a low-cost, all-in-one replacement part and want a quick repair option without sourcing separate gaskets and hardware.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking an upgraded performance manifold or guaranteed long-term durability who should consider higher-end or performance-specific replacements.
- Includes gaskets and downpipe hardware for a single-order complete repair
- Cast iron construction designed to resist warping and cracking under heat
- Reverse-engineered for factory-like fit and bolt-on installation
- Lower cost compared with equivalent factory replacement parts
- Some units reported flange-thread sizing issues that complicate installation
- A minority of users reported early cracking or holes in service
Verdict: An affordable, cast-iron passenger-side manifold kit that includes gaskets and hardware for a fast, budget-friendly repair.
5. Dorman 674-906 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit (includes gaskets and hardware)
| Item model number | 674-906 |
|---|---|
| Exterior | Machined |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 674-906 |
| OEM Part Number | 101547; 53032197AE; 53032197AY |
This Dorman driver-side exhaust manifold is a direct replacement-style kit that arrives with the gaskets and downpipe hardware needed for a one-order repair. It is used to replace a cracked or warped manifold that causes exhaust leaks, ticking noises, O2 sensor fouling, and poor fuel economy. The part is machined for a factory-like mating surface and is reverse-engineered to match the original mounting points for the listed applications. Including the gaskets and hardware simplifies a DIY install and many owners report a straightforward fit and quick repair time when typical bolt access is available. A few customers noted issues with the supplied bolts being too long for the downpipe connection or occasional missing small items in the kit, so you should check the fasteners and have replacement bolts or washers on hand. This is a practical, lower-cost alternative to factory replacement for drivers who need a complete repair package and want to avoid multiple trips for parts.
Best for: Convenience-driven owners who prioritize a complete, ready-to-install repair kit that avoids extra parts runs and simplifies a DIY or quick shop replacement.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking application fitment specifically for Dodge Challenger models should not choose this part because it is listed for select Dodge Ram trucks rather than Challenger applications.
- Includes all necessary gaskets and downpipe hardware for a single-order repair
- Machined mating surfaces designed to match factory fit and mounting points
- Durably manufactured to resist warping and cracking compared with worn originals
- Reverse-engineered design aimed at straightforward installation for common repairs
- Some kits have shipped with incorrect or missing small fasteners which may require sourcing replacement bolts
- Provided downpipe bolts can be too long for the flange and may need shorter bolts or spacers to complete the joint
Verdict: A complete driver-side replacement manifold kit that bundles gaskets and hardware to get a common exhaust leak repair done in one order.
Choosing the Right Dodge Challenger Exhaust Manifold: Key Factors to Consider
Engine Fitment and Compatibility
Correct fitment is essential because manifolds must match the Challenger engine's exhaust ports and mounting points precisely. A manifold that does not align correctly can cause leaks, uneven exhaust flow, and drivetrain vibration.
When assessing fitment, confirm flange pattern, bolt hole locations, and clearance to nearby components such as heat shields and steering linkages. Fitment also affects whether you can reuse existing gaskets and hardware or need additional adapters or modification.
Material and Heat Resistance
Materials determine how well a manifold resists warping, cracking, and corrosion under high temperatures. Cast iron is durable and resists warping, while certain stainless steels offer better corrosion resistance and lighter weight.
Consider the thermal properties in relation to your driving style. Frequent hard driving or towing increases thermal stress, making robust materials and thermal coatings more valuable. Look for heat-treated finishes and coatings that reduce corrosion and extend service life.
Port Matching and Flow Characteristics
Port shape and internal flow pathways influence backpressure and how evenly exhaust pulses exit the engine. Manifolds with well-matched ports reduce turbulence and can improve midrange response.
Poor port matching creates hotspots and uneven exhaust scavenging, which can worsen symptoms like reduced torque or rough idle. Evaluate the manifold's port design relative to the engine's cylinder head ports to ensure smooth transitions and balanced flow.
Gasket and Seal Quality
A reliable seal between the manifold and head prevents exhaust leaks that cause noise and can affect engine sensors. High-quality gaskets and correct torque specifications reduce the chance of leaks developing after installation.
Gasket material and thickness matter because they compensate for surface irregularities and thermal expansion. Consider whether the manifold requires multi-layer steel gaskets, copper seals, or other types designed for high-temperature endurance.
Durability and Resistance to Cracks
Manifolds experience repeated thermal cycling, which can lead to cracks over time. Durability depends on design, wall thickness, and stress-relief features. Look for manifolds that explicitly address common crack points such as thin runner junctions.
Reinforced flanges, filleted transitions, and appropriate wall thickness help prevent stress concentrations. If you expect aggressive use or long-term ownership, prioritize designs with proven resistance to thermal fatigue.
Installation Complexity and Serviceability
Installation difficulty affects labor time and whether you can perform the work yourself or need a professional. Factors include accessibility of mounting bolts, whether ancillary components must be removed, and if special tools or gaskets are required.
Consider manifolds with straightforward bolt patterns and included hardware when possible. Also evaluate how easy it will be to inspect and reseal the manifold in the future, since repeated removals should not degrade flanges or bolt threads.
How We Chose the Best Dodge Challenger Exhaust Manifold
We prioritized components that directly affect engine performance and long-term reliability. Key evaluation criteria included precise engine fitment to Dodge Challenger models, material quality and heat resistance, flange and port alignment, and expected lifespan under typical driving conditions. We also considered ease of installation and whether replacement required special modifications or extensive disassembly.Exclusions included any parts that did not explicitly fit the Dodge Challenger engines covered by this guide or components lacking clear material specifications. We did not include manifold options that require major engine swaps or are incompatible with common emissions equipment. The resulting list emphasizes options that balance corrosion resistance, correct port matching, and practical serviceability for most owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
What are common exhaust manifold symptoms on a Dodge Challenger?
Common symptoms often include a ticking or tapping noise from the engine bay, reduced throttle response, and increased exhaust smell in the cabin. These signs usually indicate a leaking or failing manifold gasket or a crack in the manifold body. Addressing the issue soon can prevent sensor damage and further performance loss.
How can I diagnose an exhaust manifold leak?
You can often detect a leak by listening for a high-pitched ticking during cold starts or under load, and by feeling for exhaust around the manifold flange with the engine off and cool. A smoke test or using a length of tubing as a stethoscope while the engine runs can help pinpoint the leak. For definitive diagnosis, inspect the flange, gasket surface, and runners for visible cracks or warping.
Should I replace the gasket when changing a manifold?
Replacing the gasket is usually recommended because gaskets compress and conform to seal imperfections. Reusing an old gasket increases the risk of leaks even if the new manifold fits correctly. New gaskets also ensure correct thickness and compatibility with torque specifications during installation.
How long do exhaust manifolds typically last?
Longevity depends on material, driving habits, and exposure to road salt or moisture. Many manifolds last several years under normal driving, while harsh thermal cycling or corrosion can shorten that life. Regular inspection for warping, cracks, and gasket condition helps identify issues before they lead to failure.
Can a cracked manifold be repaired or must it be replaced?
Minor cracks in some materials can be welded or patched, but repairability depends on the material and crack location. Welding cast iron requires specific skills and may not restore original strength. In many cases, replacement is the more reliable long-term solution, especially for cracks near flanges or port junctions.
Will installing a different manifold affect emissions or engine sensors?
Changing the manifold can alter exhaust temperatures and flow characteristics, which may affect downstream oxygen sensors and emissions equipment if the replacement does not maintain correct sensor locations and sealing. Choose a manifold that preserves sensor mounting positions and emissions interfaces to avoid unintended consequences.
Conclusion
When choosing an exhaust manifold for a Dodge Challenger, prioritize correct engine fitment, durable materials, and reliable sealing. Those factors directly influence performance, noise, and long-term reliability. Balance ease of installation and resistance to thermal fatigue against the intended use to find the option that best suits daily driving or more demanding conditions.Keep in mind that tradeoffs exist between weight, corrosion resistance, and repairability. Regular inspection and using proper gaskets and torque procedures will extend service life and reduce the chance of leaks or cracks developing over time.
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