1996 Dodge Viper: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 1996 Dodge Viper: 2 recalls, 8 owner complaints and up to 14 mpg combined.
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Recalls
2 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer, plus 1 equipment/tire recall that can apply. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Steering Vehicle recall #01V313000 · 2001 · 7,050 vehicles
What's wrong:
Why it matters: 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.
The fix: 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…
Suspension Vehicle recall #01V312000 · 2001 · 4,645 vehicles
What's wrong:
Why it matters: 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.
The fix: 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.
1 aftermarket equipment / tire recall replacement parts sold to fit this car, not the car itself
Brakes (hydraulic) Equipment recall #06E022000 · 2006 · 7,440 vehicles
What's wrong: Certain aftermarket brake hydraulic master cylinders sold as replacement brake cylinders for certain Ford, daimlerchrysler, and Jeep passenger vehicles. These brake cylinders were sold under the brand names of napa, raybestos, aimco, ac delco, carquest, bendix, and wagner. Only products that were manufactured from July 27, 2005 through January 17, 2006 (date codes 0529 through 0602) are subject to this recall. When…
Why it matters: Loss of brake fluid can lead to a decrease in brake line pressure and an increase in stopping distance, which can result in a vehicle crash.
The fix: Affinia (brake parts, Inc.) will replace the subject brake hydraulic master cylinders free of charge. The recall began on March 20, 2006. Owners can contact affina group customer service at 1-800-323-0354.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Body & structure (3): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Steering (2): the most common themes are steering problems (2).
- Other / unknown (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Transmission & drivetrain (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 1996 Dodge Viper has 8 owner complaints, ranking #1 of 17 Viper model years for complaints (2.1× the average Viper year). Complaints peaked in 1996 (2 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 8 years old, at a median of 40,000 miles. Neighboring years: 1995 (3 complaints, 0 recalls), 1997 (3 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.0 L 10-cyl | Manual 6-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 11 | 20 | 14 | Premium |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 1996 Dodge Viper.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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FAQ
Does the 1996 Dodge Viper have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 vehicle recalls for the 1996 Dodge Viper, plus 1 equipment or tire recalls that can apply. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 1996 Dodge Viper problems?
Owners have filed 8 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are body & structure (3), steering (2), other / unknown (1).
What gas mileage does the 1996 Dodge Viper get?
EPA ratings run up to 14 mpg combined (8.0 L, Manual 6-spd), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 1996 Dodge Viper repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.