Tyler Hoover, the new owner of the Hoovies Garage YouTube channel, recently made a risky purchase: a 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat. Despite its history of four crashes and the notorious HEMI tick issue, Hoover decided to take a gamble and buy the car sight unseen for just $26,000.
The HEMI tick, a rattling sound that can be heard in many Dodge vehicles equipped with the 6.2-liter V8 engine, has been a source of controversy. While Dodge insists that the tick is harmless, many owners find it annoying and worry that it could lead to more serious problems.
Hoover, determined to address the issue, sought the help of renowned mechanic David Long, aka Car Wizard, to diagnose and repair the engine. The 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Tyler recently acquired seemed like a dream come true, but it quickly turned into a nightmare.
Despite its impressive 707 horsepower and sleek exterior, the car was riddled with problems. The infamous HEMI tick, a common issue with these engines, was particularly concerning for Tyler, who was already apprehensive about the car’s reputation for reliability.
Previous neglect by the car’s single owner had taken its toll. The engine, which had only clocked 70,000 miles, was in dire condition.
Lifter issues escalated into a complete engine removal, revealing worn cams, wasted rod bearings, and a failing clutch. The original clutch replacement estimate of $3,000 to $4,000 paled in comparison to the final cost.
Despite the mounting challenges, Tyler remained hopeful that the Car Wizard could restore the Hellcat to its former glory. The mechanic estimated that he could fix both the visual and mechanical problems for $10,000.
However, as the repairs progressed, Tyler began to question whether the $26,000 investment was truly worth the hassle. The once-promising Hellcat, marred by a history of crashes and neglect, was now a far cry from the dream car he had envisioned.
