1997 Dodge Viper Problems: 3 Complaints, 3 Recalls

The worst 1997 Dodge Viper problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Body
2
Seats
1

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

Body
2
Seats
1

Recalls 3

Suspension: rearReported October 4, 2001 · 4,645 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Vehicle description: passenger vehicles used extensively in track type racing events and subjected to aggressive driving conditions could experience cracks at the welds of the rear differential mounting bracket.
Risk: The cracks could eventually lead to metal fatigue and dislodging of the differential mounting bracket from the frame of the vehicle. Separation of the differential mounting bracket could result in loss of vehicle control.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the vehicles and reinforce the vehicle's frame. Owner notification began may 20, 2002. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact daimlerchrysler at 1‑800‑853‑1403.

Recall number 01V312000 · Recall details

Steering: rack and pinion: rackReported October 4, 2001 · 7,050 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Vehicle description: passenger vehicles used extensively in track type racing events and subjected to aggressive driving conditions could experiencecracking of the steering rack mounting brackets.
Risk: The cracks could eventually lead to separation of the steering rack from the frame of the vehicle. Separation of the steering rack could result in unexpected steering looseness and lag.
Remedy: All affected vehicles will have a field repair kit installed, consisting of lower frame rail reinforcement gussets and a reinforcement bracket. Owner notification began may 20, 2002. Owners who do not receive the free information within a reasonable time should contact daimlerchrysler at 1‑800‑853‑1403.

Recall number 01V313000 · Recall details

Air bags: frontal: sensor/control module-inactiveReported May 16, 1997 · 125,000 vehicles affected

What is wrong: The electrical circuit design allows the potential for an inadvertent air bag deployment upon vehicle ignition shut down.
Risk: Unexpected air bag deployment can result in occupant injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the air bag electronic control module with a newly designed module.

Recall number 97V080000 · Recall details

See all 3 recalls for the 1997 Dodge Viper

Technical service bulletins for the 1997 Dodge Viper 53

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

Apr 22, 2020 Service bulletinCharging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the...
Nov 20, 2019 Service bulletinRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard...
Nov 20, 2019 Service bulletinUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to...
Nov 20, 2019 Service bulletinUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision...
Mar 4, 2016 Service bulletinDo Not Apply Corrosion Protection On Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) Plastic Panels This bulletin involves...
Feb 26, 2016 Service bulletinValve Body
Apr 23, 2015 Service bulletinChild Seat Tether Anchor Installation This bulletin describes procedures to install Child Seat Tether...
May 2, 2003 Service bulletinEngine spark knock using 91 octane gasoline. tt
Jan 1, 2003 Service bulletinTransmission and clutch kit. gpop - issue review system. tt
Jun 24, 2002 Service bulletinFlash programming failure recovery. slc

See all 53 bulletins for the 1997 Dodge Viper

What 1997 Dodge Viper owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Mar 3, 2003 · Seats · GA

The dealer refused to perform recall for frame welding, consumer was informed the manufacturer did not pay enough. Dealer agreed to make repairs.

Filed Dec 18, 2002 · Body · KS

The federal safety agency#14417-01-v-313-000 steering racck mounting bracket. The cracks could eventually lead to separation of the steering rack from the frame of the vehicle: consumer states the frame has broke on both side of the vehicle. Dealer and manufacturer has been notified. Ts

Filed Jun 12, 2000 · Body · MD

Weak point in rear tow link mount when braking excessively and cornering caused frame to break. *ak,

Used buying checklistWhat to check on a 1997 Dodge Viper before you buy

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Questions about the 1997 Dodge Viper

Is the 1997 Dodge Viper reliable?

Owners have filed 3 complaints about the 1997 Dodge Viper, fewer than a typical Viper model year.

What is the most common problem with the 1997 Dodge Viper?

Body and structure, with 2 complaints. Next is seats (1).

How many recalls does the 1997 Dodge Viper have?

3 recalls, covering suspension, steering and air bags.

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1997 Dodge Viper problems