Most common 1996 Dodge Viper problems
Share of the 8 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Dodge Viper complaints by model year
Best Viper years: 2001, 2016, 2003. Compare all years →
1996 Dodge Viper recalls (2)
Steering › Rack and pinion › Rack
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.
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.
Suspension › Rear
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.
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…
What 1996 Dodge Viper owners say
Body & structure
The dealership could not do recall cause there was'nt any techician that could do the work. Mr
The convertable top almost flew off while driving at high speeds. Please describe.
1996 Dodge Viper engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.0L 10-cyl | 6-speed manual | RWD | 11 / 20 / 14 |
EPA ratings. Class: Sports car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1996 Dodge Viper a good car?
Based on 8 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1996 Viper rates average: 1.8× as many complaints as a typical year of the Viper at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1996 Dodge Viper?
The body & structure — 3 complaints, 38% of all complaints for this model year, most often about body › roof and pillars. Next are the steering (2) and transmission & drivetrain (1).
How many recalls does the 1996 Dodge Viper have?
There are 2 recalls for the 1996 Dodge Viper, the most recent from October 4, 2001 (rack). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Dodge Viper?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2001, 2016 and 2003. See the full Dodge Viper years comparison.
At what mileage do 1996 Dodge Viper problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 40,000 miles; 100% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.