Most common 1997 Dodge Viper problems
Share of the 3 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 →
1997 Dodge Viper recalls (3)
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…
Air bags › Frontal › Sensor/control module-inactive
The electrical circuit design allows the potential for an inadvertent air bag deployment upon vehicle ignition shut down.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the air bag electronic control module with a newly designed module.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 Dodge Viper a good car?
Based on 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 Viper rates few complaints: 1.3× 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 1997 Dodge Viper?
The body & structure — 2 complaints, 67% of all complaints for this model year, most often about frame and members. Next is the seats (1).
How many recalls does the 1997 Dodge Viper have?
There are 3 recalls for the 1997 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.
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.