Maintaining the interior of your Dodge Charger from model years 2015 to 2023 requires more than just occasional vacuuming. Daily driving, seasonal weather, food, pets, and general wear can all take a toll on your car’s cabin. With consistent upkeep and smart habits, you can preserve the comfort, cleanliness, and value of your Charger for years to come.
This guide focuses on practical, non-commercial strategies to help you care for your Charger’s interior using simple routines and proven techniques. Whether you drive your vehicle daily or use it for weekend trips, you’ll find that a clean interior improves your driving experience and protects your investment.
Know Your Charger’s Cabin Layout
The Dodge Charger 2015–2023 comes in a range of trims, but the overall interior layout remains consistent. It includes front bucket seats, a wide center console, generous rear passenger space, and multiple upholstery options—ranging from basic cloth to premium leather. The dashboard, door panels, and center stack are all designed with a performance-focused aesthetic, which means there are multiple nooks and high-touch surfaces to maintain.
Understanding your vehicle’s materials will guide your cleaning choices. Fabric requires different care than leather, and both require appropriate cleaning tools. Take note of your floor type as well—many Chargers feature carpeted flooring that benefits from added protection.
Establish a Routine Cleaning Schedule
One of the most effective ways to keep your Charger clean is to follow a set routine. Rather than letting messes accumulate, break cleaning into weekly, monthly, and seasonal tasks. Here’s a suggested schedule:
- Weekly: Remove trash, shake out floor mats, vacuum high-traffic areas, wipe down touchpoints like the steering wheel and shifter.
- Monthly: Clean seat surfaces, vacuum the trunk area, wash the inside of windows, and wipe down door panels.
- Seasonally: Deep clean carpets and mats, clean and condition seats (especially if leather), and clean HVAC vents.
Short, regular sessions take less time than sporadic deep cleaning and prevent buildup of dirt, dust, and odor.
Protect High-Wear Surfaces with Custom Mats and Covers
One of the easiest ways to keep your car clean is by protecting it from the start. Floor mats are particularly prone to damage from shoes, mud, water, and crumbs. A good set of custom-fit mats can prevent debris from reaching your factory carpet and make routine cleaning far easier.
Consider using Dodge Charger 2015–2023 Custom Fit Floor Mats that are laser-measured for precise coverage. These mats stay in place, protect your carpet, and are simple to remove and clean.
To extend protection further, use Dodge Charger 2015–2023 Seat Covers to shield upholstery from spills, pet fur, and friction-related wear. This is especially helpful if you have kids, pets, or frequently eat on the go.
For complete interior protection, check out the Dodge Charger 2015–2023 Complete Interior Mat Set.
Vacuum Strategically, Not Just Quickly
Vacuuming is essential, but how you do it matters. Always remove floor mats before vacuuming so you can clean underneath. Slide the seats forward and backward to access tight areas. Use a crevice tool to get into narrow spaces between seats and along the console. Don’t forget under the pedals and beneath the rear seats, where debris tends to accumulate unnoticed.
Start from the top and work downward—dust falls, so cleaning upper surfaces first prevents rework. Finish with the floor to avoid kicking dirt onto freshly cleaned panels.
Address Spills Immediately
Quick action prevents long-term damage. Keep a small kit in your car with microfiber towels, interior-safe wipes, and a gentle upholstery spray. Blot (don’t scrub) liquid spills and treat stains promptly before they set. For grease or food stains, use mild dish soap diluted with water on cloth seats or an approved leather cleaner for leather interiors.
Avoid using all-purpose household cleaners inside your vehicle. These can strip finishes or discolor trim. Stick to car-safe products labeled for interior use.
Don’t Forget the Trunk and Hidden Compartments
The trunk of your Charger is easy to overlook, but it collects dirt, moisture, and loose items just like the cabin. Vacuum the trunk every month, especially if you haul groceries, sports gear, or tools. Consider lining the trunk with a removable mat that can be rinsed off outside the vehicle.
Clean glove boxes, center consoles, and cupholders regularly. These storage spots often harbor dust, crumbs, or sticky residue from drinks and snacks.
Use the Right Tools for the Right Surfaces
Every surface in your Charger requires a different approach. Use microfiber cloths for dashboards and glass to avoid scratching. Soft-bristled brushes work well on vents and textured plastics. Avoid using sponges or rough rags that can damage trim.
For screens and touch panels, use a slightly damp cloth and avoid chemical sprays. Harsh cleaners can damage anti-glare coatings or leave streaks that affect visibility.
Monitor and Prevent Odors
Maintaining a clean-smelling cabin is as important as maintaining a clean-looking one. The Dodge Charger’s interior is relatively enclosed, which can trap odors from fast food, gym bags, pets, or environmental pollutants. Tackling odor at the source—not just masking it—is key to long-term freshness.
Here are a few preventative habits to adopt:
- Remove trash after every trip—particularly food containers, wrappers, and drink bottles.
- Clean up spills immediately, especially dairy or sugary drinks that can ferment or attract pests.
- Use baking soda under seats or activated charcoal pouches to absorb lingering smells naturally.
- Install a clean cabin air filter regularly. A clogged filter can circulate stale air and worsen interior odor.
Preserve Interior Panels and Trim
Plastic, vinyl, and soft-touch materials make up most of the Charger’s dashboard, door cards, and trim. These surfaces collect dust, skin oils, and UV exposure over time. Use an interior-safe cleaner with a microfiber towel to wipe them down weekly.
UV protectants can also reduce fading and cracking—especially on dashboards and top panels exposed to sunlight. Use a matte formula to reduce glare. Don’t forget the instrument panel, push-button ignition area, and storage cubbies where grime can accumulate.
Upholstery Maintenance: Cloth vs. Leather
If your Charger has cloth seats, frequent vacuuming helps reduce embedded dirt. For stains, use an upholstery cleaner rated for automotive interiors and follow label instructions. Always blot—not scrub—and allow plenty of drying time.
Leather interiors need conditioning to remain supple and crack-free. Use a leather-safe cleaner and conditioner every few months. Avoid oil-based products that leave slippery residues. Test any cleaner in a hidden spot first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
Protect Your Charger’s Interior During Extreme Weather
Weather has a significant impact on cleanliness. In winter, snow and salt residue can soak into carpets and produce long-term staining. In summer, UV rays can overheat the cabin and degrade surfaces.
During winter:
- Use deep-grooved all-weather mats to trap water, slush, and salt before it reaches your floor.
- Keep a small brush and towel in your car to knock snow off your shoes before entering.
- Wipe down wet areas to prevent moisture buildup and mildew.
During summer:
- Use a windshield sunshade to reduce dashboard cracking and leather fading.
- Crack the windows slightly on hot days to improve air circulation and reduce heat buildup.
- Clean spills immediately—heat intensifies odors and sets stains faster.
Learn more about weather-specific cleaning strategies in our seasonal post: Weather Protection Tips for Dodge Charger 2015–2023 Owners.
Focus on High-Touch Areas
The steering wheel, gear shifter, touch screen, and door handles are some of the most frequently touched surfaces. Clean these areas at least once a week with a disinfectant designed for vehicles. Avoid harsh household cleaners that can degrade finishes or leave streaks.
For touchscreens, use a soft, dry microfiber cloth or one slightly dampened with water.
Clean Cupholders, Door Pockets, and Small Compartments
These spots often collect crumbs and debris. Remove rubber liners (if equipped), wash them with mild soap, and let them dry before reinstalling. For narrow spaces, use an old toothbrush or a detailing brush to remove dirt. Finish with a disinfectant wipe and dry thoroughly.
Include the Rear Cabin and Child Safety Areas
Even if you don’t use the rear seats daily, clean them regularly to prevent unnoticed buildup. If you have children, check under car seats and in seat belt buckles for food bits and dirt. Use a vacuum crevice tool and a damp cloth for safe, effective cleaning. Always re-secure child safety seats properly after cleaning underneath them.
Plan Seasonal Deep Cleans
In addition to regular upkeep, schedule a deeper cleaning session at the start of each season. This might include removing the seats (if you’re experienced), shampooing the carpets, using a steam cleaner on hard surfaces, and cleaning interior air vents thoroughly.
Consistency reduces effort in the long term. Preventing buildup is easier than trying to reverse long-standing stains, odors, or fading.
Choose the Right Cleaning Supplies
A clean Dodge Charger starts with the right supplies. Not all cleaning products are suitable for your vehicle’s materials. Using the wrong chemical or tool can damage trim, dull screens, or stain upholstery. For the best results, always use products designed for automotive interiors.
Recommended cleaning tools and products include:
- Soft microfiber towels for wiping down surfaces without scratching
- Interior-safe multipurpose cleaner for plastic, vinyl, and rubber trim
- Dedicated upholstery cleaner for cloth seats
- Leather-safe cleaner and conditioner for leather interiors
- Crevice tools and small brushes for tight spots and air vents
- Automotive glass cleaner (ammonia-free) for interior windows
Always test cleaners in a hidden area before full application. Even products labeled safe for automotive use may react differently depending on temperature or surface finish.
Maintain the HVAC System and Air Quality
Clean interior air is an overlooked part of interior maintenance. Your Charger’s HVAC system can accumulate dust, pollen, and moisture, which contribute to foul smells and respiratory irritation. Here’s how to keep it clean:
- Replace the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or more frequently in dusty environments
- Vacuum and brush out air vents regularly to remove dust buildup
- Use an evaporator cleaner or schedule professional AC system maintenance annually
Improving cabin air helps eliminate lingering odors and keeps the overall environment fresher—especially important for long drives and warm weather.
Protect Your Interior with Preventative Accessories
Preventative care is just as important as cleaning. Adding protective accessories reduces the frequency and intensity of cleaning required. Consider the following upgrades to protect your Charger’s interior:
- Sunshades: Help block UV rays from damaging your dashboard, seats, and steering wheel
- Trunk liners: Catch dirt, spills, and leaks from gear, groceries, and tools
- Kick mats and backseat protectors: Useful for families with children who may scuff or dirty seatbacks
- Seat gap fillers: Prevent crumbs and debris from falling between seats
Smart accessories are especially useful if your Charger is shared between multiple drivers or used for ridesharing, commuting, or family trips.
Use Smart Storage Solutions
Clutter control is an underrated element of keeping your vehicle interior clean. Organizers and storage bins help manage the odds and ends that accumulate—charging cables, receipts, napkins, snacks, and more.
Here are some ideas to reduce mess through better organization:
- Use a trunk storage box for emergency kits, tools, and reusable shopping bags
- Add a front-seat car organizer for items you need during drives
- Install under-seat storage bins to keep things out of sight
- Limit loose items and store everything in zippered pouches or compartments
Less clutter means fewer places for dust to collect and fewer distractions while driving.
Don’t Overlook the Interior Glass
Clean windows aren’t just about visibility—they also contribute to the perceived cleanliness of your cabin. Smudges, streaks, and haze on interior glass make the space feel neglected. Use a microfiber towel and ammonia-free glass cleaner on interior windows.
Focus on these areas:
- Front and rear windshields (inside surface)
- Driver and passenger side windows
- Interior side of the rear window (often overlooked)
- Infotainment screen or gauge cluster lens (if covered with glass or plastic)
Always clean glass in the shade to prevent streaking. If needed, use a dedicated automotive glass towel for best results.
Set Up a Cleaning Kit for Your Trunk
Keeping a small cleaning kit in your trunk helps you stay prepared. Include the essentials:
- Mini vacuum or handheld cordless vacuum
- Interior-safe wipes and microfiber towels
- Stain remover spray for emergencies
- Disposable gloves and a small trash bag
Storing a small kit keeps you from putting off cleaning tasks. You’re more likely to clean a spill or wipe down a panel if the supplies are close at hand.
Make Cleanliness a Shared Responsibility
Whether you drive solo or share your Dodge Charger with family, friends, or coworkers, keeping the interior clean works best when everyone participates. Encourage passengers to dispose of trash, wipe up spills, and take their belongings with them. If kids are frequent riders, consider assigning small roles—such as collecting wrappers or organizing back seat gear—to make cleanup part of the routine.
If you're a rideshare or carpool driver, maintaining a clean vehicle is even more essential. Not only does it preserve your car’s interior, it also creates a positive experience for anyone stepping into the cabin.
Maintain a Minimalist Mindset
The more items you keep inside your Dodge Charger, the harder it is to keep it clean. A minimalist mindset helps reduce clutter and simplifies your cleaning process. Start by removing non-essentials from the cabin—items like unused chargers, empty drink bottles, extra clothing, or unnecessary paperwork. When everything has a purpose and a place, maintaining order becomes second nature.
Before adding any new accessory or convenience item to your car, ask whether it contributes to cleanliness or creates additional mess. Reducing the number of items inside the cabin not only looks better but reduces places for dust and grime to collect.
Set Interior Cleaning Reminders
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to forget to clean your vehicle until messes pile up. Setting a recurring calendar reminder—once every one or two weeks—can help you stay consistent. Consider pairing your vehicle cleaning routine with other maintenance habits like checking tire pressure or refueling.
Apps and digital reminders can be synced with your phone to notify you when it’s time to clean. If your vehicle is part of your daily routine, your reminders should be too.
Use Drive-Thru Car Wash Visits as a Trigger
If you use a drive-thru car wash, consider using that visit as a trigger to also clean the inside of your car. While the exterior is being washed, take a few minutes to wipe down the dashboard or remove trash. This habit links exterior and interior maintenance into a single routine, saving time and keeping your Charger in peak condition.
Include the Roof Liner in Deep Cleans
The headliner—your interior roof surface—is one of the most overlooked areas during interior maintenance. It accumulates dust, smoke residue, and odors, especially near sun visors and grab handles. Use a dry microfiber cloth or a lightly dampened towel to gently wipe down the area. Avoid soaking the material, as most headliners are fabric-covered and can sag if saturated.
Check Under Floor Mats and Seat Rails
Even with custom-fit floor mats, debris can slip underneath. Periodically lift your mats and vacuum beneath them. Pay attention to the area around seat rails where coins, food crumbs, and dirt often collect unnoticed. A detailing brush and vacuum crevice attachment can help reach these hidden spots.
Inspect and Clean Interior Seals and Door Jambs
When cleaning, don’t forget to open each door and wipe down the door jambs and rubber seals. These areas collect grease, moisture, and road grime that can transfer into the cabin over time. Use a damp cloth and mild cleaner to wipe these surfaces, followed by a dry towel to remove residue. This helps preserve the weather sealing and maintains a polished look when doors are open.
FAQ: Dodge Charger Interior Maintenance
How often should I clean the inside of my Dodge Charger?
Light cleaning should be done weekly—remove trash, shake out mats, and wipe high-touch surfaces. Deeper cleaning such as vacuuming, leather conditioning, and vent cleaning can be done monthly or seasonally depending on your usage habits.
What’s the best way to keep cloth seats clean?
Vacuum regularly to prevent debris from settling into the fibers. Spot clean using a fabric-safe automotive upholstery cleaner, and avoid soaking the fabric to prevent mold or odors.
How can I get rid of interior odors permanently?
Start by removing the source of the smell, then clean carpets and vents. Replace the cabin air filter and use odor-absorbing products like baking soda or charcoal bags. Avoid masking the smell with strong fragrances.
Do I need different mats for different seasons?
Yes, all-weather mats are ideal for wet or snowy months, while carpet mats work well during dry seasons. Swapping them out seasonally protects your interior more effectively.
How can I prevent stains from pets or kids?
Use waterproof seat covers, teach children to remove dirty shoes, and keep wet wipes on hand for fast cleanup. Also consider using kick mats on the back of front seats for added protection.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the manufacturer of the Dodge Charger. All vehicle names and model years are used strictly to describe compatibility. For custom-fit floor mats and more interior accessories, please refer to Car Mats Customs’ product catalog.