1997 Dodge Avenger problems
The Dodge Avenger is a front-wheel drive, mid-sized sedan that was marketed by Dodge. The Avenger made its North American debut in 1994 for the 1995 model year as a coupe that was produced until 2000. The model name was reintroduced to the market as a four-door sports sedan starting in 2007 for the 2008 model year. The Dodge Avenger name had earlier been used on South African market Hillman Avengers in 1975 and 1976.
The 2014 model year marked the end of Avenger production as the mid-sized models for both the Dodge and Chrysler brands were consolidated into the new Chrysler 200 introduced for the 2015 model year while Dodge received the new compact Dart.
Nameplate history
The first use of the Dodge Avenger name was on a badge engineered version of the European Hillman Avenger, exclusive to South Africa. The same car was sold in North America as the Plymouth Cricket between 1972 and 1974. In place of the Hillman engines, this version used a Peugeot 1.6 litre engine (as also installed in locally assembled Peugeot 404s) in order to satisfy local content requirements. The Dodge-branded Avenger was introduced in 1975 and was then renamed Chrysler in 1976. This generation has nothing in common with later Dodge Avengers. After Chrysler ZA was merged into Sigma in 1976, the Avenger was soon cancelled to allow Sigma to free up more production capacity for the Mazda 323.
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Common 1997 Dodge Avenger problems
The Dodge Avenger, introduced in 1995, has had its fair share of issues, particularly in the 1997 model year. The following are some of the most common problems reported by owners of the 1997 Dodge Avenger, based on their complaints and experiences.
- Automatic Transmission may have shifting problems: Another common issue reported by owners of the 1997 Dodge Avenger is that the automatic transmission may have shifting problems. This can manifest as a delay in shifting, slipping gears, or difficulty shifting into certain gears. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including a worn-out torque converter, a damaged transmission control solenoid, or low transmission fluid levels .
- Knocking noise from the AC compressor: Some owners of the 1997 Dodge Avenger have reported hearing a knocking noise coming from the AC compressor. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a loose compressor clutch or a damaged compressor mount. In some cases, the knocking noise may be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a damaged compressor or a leak in the AC system .
- Seats issues: The 1997 Dodge Avenger has also had issues with its seats. Some owners have reported problems with the seat adjustment mechanism, which can make it difficult to adjust the seat to a comfortable position. In some cases, the seat adjustment mechanism may fail entirely, making it impossible to adjust the seat. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a damaged seat adjustment motor or a faulty seat adjustment control module .
- Suspension issues: The 1997 Dodge Avenger has also had issues with its suspension. Some owners have reported problems with the suspension components, such as the struts, shocks, and springs. These issues can manifest as a rough ride, excessive bouncing, or a feeling of instability while driving. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out suspension components or a damaged suspension control module .
It's important to note that these are just some of the common problems reported by owners of the 1997 Dodge Avenger. If you're experiencing any issues with your vehicle, it's best to consult with a qualified mechanic or a professional repair shop to diagnose and address the problem.
What is the common problem of Dodge Avenger?
Some of the top Dodge Avenger problems include squealing brakes, a stalling engine, and the engine not starting.
Is the Dodge Avenger a reliable car?
According to carparts.com, the Dodge Avenger is not just a reliable vehicle but also very fairly priced compared to the competition. You will find excellent average scores for the Dodge Avenger's reliability. It's a quality vehicle even though it was discontinued almost a decade ago.
How many miles will a Dodge Avenger last?
You can expect a standard Dodge Avenger to survive around 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, though some will last far longer with proper maintenance. Some Dodge Avengers are okay to invest in if they have more than 100,000 miles, but those without proper maintenance from former owners should be avoided.
How much is a 1997 Dodge Avenger worth?
The value of a used 1997 Dodge Avenger ranges from $652 to $2,588, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What is the common problem of Dodge Avenger?
Some of the top Dodge Avenger problems include squealing brakes, a stalling engine, and the engine not starting.
Is the Dodge Avenger a reliable car?
According to carparts.com, the Dodge Avenger is not just a reliable vehicle but also very fairly priced compared to the competition. You will find excellent average scores for the Dodge Avenger's reliability. It's a quality vehicle even though it was discontinued almost a decade ago.
How much is a 1997 Dodge Avenger worth?
The value of a used 1997 Dodge Avenger ranges from $652 to $2,588, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Do Dodge Avengers have transmission problems?
Avenger owners have made 892 complaints over 13 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 20th in overall reliability out of 29 Dodge models , with real transmission and engine concerns.
1997 Dodge Avenger car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Avenger problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Dodge Avenger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Dodge Avenger
The NHTSA has received 94 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Dodge Avenger. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Dodge Avenger vehicles.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-26
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: WE HAVE CONTINUED TO HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THESE RIMS. I AM ABOUT TO RETIRE MY THIRD WHEEL FROM THIS CAR. THE WHEEL LOOKS GOOD, BUT IT JUST CAN'T HOLD AIR DUE TO THE RIM BENDING RIGHT AT THE BEAD OR OUTER RIM. THE RIM IN QUESTION IS A 17 INCH SILVER RIM ON THE 97 AVENGER. IT BENDS WAY TOO EASILY. THIS CAR BELONGED TO MY DAUGHTER AND WE STARTED ENCOUNTERING THE BENT RIM'S LOSING AIR WHEN SHE WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL. SHE INITIALLY DROVE THE CAR ONLY TO SCHOOL AND BACK...8 MILES A DAY. I BOUGHT A NEW RIM, ONLY TO HAVE ANOTHER FACTORY RIM GO BAD FOR THE SAME REASON. I SUSPECT I NOW HAVE A THIRD WHEEL GOING BAD ON ME. THERE NEEDS TO BE A RESPONSE TO SUCH POOR QUALITY SOLD ON NEW CARS. (EVEN THOUGH THE YEAR SOLD WAS 1997). *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-27
- VIN: 1B4GP44RXVB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE ORIGINAL HEAD LIGHTS ARE WARN, DETERIORATED, AND DON'T LAMINATE DRIVING AT NIGHT, HIGH BEAMS ARE EQUAL TO ALL OTHER CARS LOW BEAMS. THE LUMIUNS DON'T GET OUT, BECAUSE OF THE DEFECTIVE LENS COVER. I WAS TOLD THAT ALL CARAVANS AROUND THE DATE OF 1997 HAVE THIS PROBLEM. I WAS TOLD THAT YOU HAVE TO REPLACE THEM AT A COST OF AROUND $200.00 EACH. THEY ARE A SAFETY ISSUE AT NIGHT, A REAL HAZARD, AND THEY ARE A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. SHOULD BE REPLACED BY CORP/ DEALER. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-12
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y8VE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I OWN A 1997 DODGE AVENGER I BOUGHT IT BRAND NEW IT HAS THE 2.0 DOHC 4 CYL ENGINE THE HEAD GASKET IS LEAKING ON IT AND I ALMOST RAN IT OUT OF OIL. I HAVE HEARD THAT THIS IS A DEFAULT HEAD GASKET FROM THE MANUFACTURE ON THIS TYPE OF ENGINE MY CAR HAS BEEN REGULARLY MAINTAINED AND HAS REAL LOW MILEAGE SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR BRAND NEW MILES IS (71,000). *NM
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-28
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y5VE
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 1997 DODGE AVENGER HOOD POPPED UP SHATTERING WINDSHIELD. *TS THERE WAS DAMAGE FROM A PREVIOUS ACCIDENT THAT CAUSED THE HOOD TO IMPROPERLY LATCH DOWN. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-08
- VIN: 4B3AU42N0VE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: AFTER RECALL 967 CONTROL ARM REPAIRS, WERE DONE THE PROBLEM RECURRED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH. THE FRONT LEFT SIDE CONTROL ARM BROKE. CONSUMER MANAGED TO PULL OVER, AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED. *AK REPLACED LOWER CONTROL ARM. *BF
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-12
- VIN: 4B3AU52N4VE
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED A PROBLEM WITH THE AIR BAG COMPARTMENT IN THE DASH. THE AIR BAG IS LIFTING ABOUT ONE INCH ABOVE THE DASH . THE CONSUMER FEELS THAT IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT THE AIR BAGS WILL NOT DEPLOY. OWNER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER WHO SAYS THE REPAIR WILL BE THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. *JB *NM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 1997 DODGE AVENGER RAN INTO A TREE AFTER BALL JOINT BROKE CAUSING THE AXEL TO BREAK.***NO ANSWER REQUIRED***. *MR THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED THIRTEEN MONTHS AFTER THE BALL JOINT RECALL WAS REPAIRED. THE CONSUMER WAS NOT BADLY INJURED BUT IS ON MUSCLE RELAXANTS FOR WHIPLASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE CONSUMER WAS THEN TOLD THAT THE BALL JOINTS WERE NEVER REPLACED JUST INSPECTED. *NM
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-28
- VIN: 4B3AU42N7VE
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE HEADLIGHTS OF THIS CAR ARE SO FOGGED OVER (MILKY) THAT I CAN NOT DRIVE THIS CAR AT NIGHT. IN THE EVENT THAT I DO DRIVE AT NIGHT I MUST USE MY HIGH BEAMS, BUT IT IS STILL VERY DIFFICULT TO SEE. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-20
- VIN: 4B3AU52N4VE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CREAKING NOISE FROM FRONT SUSPENSION. RECEIVED RECALL 967 AND DEALER DID NOT USE ANY PARTS TO CORRECT PROBLEM. *BF THE DEALER STATED THE PARTS ON THE VEHICLE WERE NOT DAMAGED. PRIOR TO THE RECALL NOTICE THE CONSUMER HAD THE BALL JOINT REPLACED ON THE LEFT SIDE. THE CONSUMER TRIED TO GET THE OTHER BALL JOINT REPLACED, HOWEVER THE DEALER STATED THE RECALL HAD ALREADY BEEN PERFORMED. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-12
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: HEAD GASKET BLEW UP IN MY 1997 DODGE AVENGER..CONTACTED DEALERSHIP AND THEY REVEALED THEY ALREADY KNEW THE GASKET WAS IN DEFAULT BUT WERE ONLY REPAIRING THEM AS THE COMPLAINTS CAME IN . THEY REFUSED TO DO A RECALL . THEY INSTALLED A SO CALLED "NEW HEAD GASKET" BUT CAR HAS NEVER RUN GOOD SINCE AND THEY HAVE REFUSED TO DO ANYMORE TO IT.*AK
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-16
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2B4GP2432VR
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: DODGE CARAVAN 97 MODEL VIN#[XXX]. STAT FARM INSURANCE # [XXX]. THE ABOVE DODGE CARAVAN WAS HIT FROM BEHIND BY A SCHOOL BUS ON TUE. 16TH NOV 04 ON ROUTE 516 OLD BRIDGE, NJ 08857. THE VEHICLE WAS PUSHED TO THE UTILITY POLE. *AK THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO WORK. THE DRIVER SEAT AND PASSENGER SEAT COLLAPSED BACKWARD INSTEAD OF PROTECTING US FROM NECK AND BODY INJURY. THE VEHICLE IS WITH STATEFARM INSURANCE. THEY MAY REMOVE IT FROM ITS TEMPORARY STORAGE IN COUPLE OF DAYS. YOU MAY CONTACT THEM OR THE OLD BRIDGE POLICE IN CASE YOU WANT TO INSPECT THE FAILED SAFETY SYSTEMS. UPDATED 08/03/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-10
- VIN: 4B3AU52N1VE
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS LENS DEVELOPED A CLOUDY DISCOLORATION THAT REDUCED THE LIGHT ILLUMINATION. THE LENS COULD NOT BE CLEANED OR REPLACED BECAUSE IT WAS A SEALED UNIT. THE ENTIRE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY HAD TO BE REPLACED, WHICH WAS VERY COSTLY.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-07
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4B3AU42YXVE
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. THERE WERE TWO OCCUPANTS IN THE VEHICLE. UPON IMPACT, AIRBAGS IN THE FRONT DID NOT DEPLOY. VEHICLE WAS MOVING AT 45 MPH, AND THE VEHICLE WENT INTO A DITCH. BOTH OCCUPANTS SUFFERED HEAD TRAUMAS. CONSUMER CONTACTED CHRYSLER, AND WAS TOLD BY THE MANUFACTURER IN WRITING THAT THE AIR BAGS WERE NOT SUPPOSE TO DEPLOY. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-22
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y3VE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: (1) 1997 DODGE AVENGER WAS DRIVEN (2) LEFT SIDE LOWER BALLJOINT FAILED (PULLED OUT OF LATERAL CONTROL ARM), WHEEL TURNED TO THE LEFT, CONTACTEDFENDER, PULLER AXLE OUT OF TRANSMISSION. THIS ALL HAPPENED AT PARKING LOT SPEED.*AK (3) CAR WAS TOWED TO MY HOUSE THEN DODGE DEALER AFTER I LEARNED OF PREVIOUS RECALL ISSUES. DODGE GAVE ME AN ESTIMATE OF $1,200 FOR REPAIRS (THAT INCLUDED PERHAPS FREE REPLACEMENT OF THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS PENDING APPROVAL FROM CHRYSLER REP. CHRYSLER REP WAS A NO SHOW AND COULD NOT COMMIT TO A DAY THAT HE COULD INSPECT THE CAR. I REPAIRED THE CAR MYSELF (NEW LEFT AND RIGHT LOWER CONTROL ARMS, A REBUILT AXLE, AND TRANSMISSION OIL. I NOTIFIED CHRYSLER OF THE ABOVE EVENTS. THEY DO NOT WANT TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR PARTS (NAPA PARTS). THEY OFFERED TO TAKE THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER AND REPLACE THE CONTROL ARMS AND AXLE. I ALREADY PAID FOR THEM AT NAPA. I STILL NEED TO TAKE IT FOR AN ALIGNMENT.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-07
- Crash: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD SNAPPING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. ALSO, THE FRONT TIRES WERE SQUEALING AND BOUNCING SEVERELY. CONSUMER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND IT ROLLED INTO A DITCH ON THE RIGHT SIDE. DEALER EXAMINED THE VEHICLE, AND DETERMINED THAT THE UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.*AK
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS,TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-15
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y6VE
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS,TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 DODGE AVENGER SOME OF MY PROBLEMS I HAVE NOT FIXED I AM ABOUT TO GO BROKE. I HAVE MORE PROBLEMS WITH MY TIRES, BRAKES, AND ROTORS. THE PAINT IS CHIPPING OFF MY CAR IN SPOTS. MY TIRES WEAR FAST, MY AIRBAG IS LOOSE THE COVER ON IT. MY BRAKES ARE AWFUL I HAVE TO REPLACE THEM A LOT. I LOVE MY CAR BUT THERE IS TOO MANY PROBLEMS....
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-15
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y9VE
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,WHEELS
- Summary: RECURING PROBLEMS WITH BRAKE VIBRATION AND FAST WEAR, ALSO WITH SUSPENSION REPAIR, WAS TWICE QUOTED FOR A FULL REPLACEMENT OF FRONT SUSPENSION. HAVE NOT DONE THIS YET. MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH ENGINE ELECTICAL AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. HAVE REPLACED WIRES AND PLUGS 2-3 TIME PER YEAR. REPLACED ENGINE COIL ONCE TO FIX PROBLEM WITH SPARK PLUGS ARCHING AND BURNING UP. PROBLEM WAS SOLVED TEMPORARILY. PROBLEM IS BACK 3 MONTHS LATER. CHUGGING AND SPUTTERING.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y1VE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DEALERSHIP WILL NOT HONOR RECALL CONCERNING LOWER AND UPPER BALL JOINTS BECAUSE IT WAS A SALVAGE VEHICLE. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-01
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y3VE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS BRAKE SYSTEM FAILED DUE TO THE PUMP MOTOR, CAUSING LOSS OF BRAKING POWER. *AK IF THE ABS LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED WHEN THE VEHICLE IS TURNED OFF, THE LIGHT GOES OFF. WHEN HE STARTS THE VEHICLE AND THE ABS KICKS IN, THE ENGINE WOULD STALL. THE PUMP MOTOR WAS CORRODED WHICH CAUSED ONE OR MORE WHEELS TO LOCK UP. PROBLEM IS UNPREDICTABLE ON DRY OR WET PAVEMENT. FAILURE OCCURRED IN ICE OR SNOWY CONDITIONS. CONSUMER NOTED THE ABS FEATURE DIDN'T HAPPEN, THE BRAKES LOCKED. VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED SEVEN MONTHS LATER WHEN DODGE DECIDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE FOR $300. DOLLARS LESS DUE TO THE APPROACHING WINTER. CONSUMER FEELS THE DEFECT IS THE MANUFACTURER'S FAULT AND WANTS TO BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIR. *PH
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4B3AU42N8VE
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHEN I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE IT HAD 53,925 MILES. I NOTICED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS HAD SOME TYPE OF HAZE (OR MOISTURE) INSIDE OF THEM. I WENT TO THE LOCAL DODGE DEALER AND ASKED ABOUT THE PROBLEM. THEY SAID THE LIGHTS ARE A SEALED UNIT AND THAT IF I WOULD LIKE TO PURCHASE NEW ONES THEY WOULD BE $325 EACH. THE PROBLEM WITH THE HEADLIGHTS IS NOT SO MUCH THAT THEY ARE AN EYE SORE, BUT THAT THEY ARE A SAFETY HAZARD. THE MOISTURE ON MY HEADLIGHTS NEVER GOES AWAY. THEREFORE, AFFECTING THE BRILLIANCE OF THE LIGHT EMITTING FROM THE BULB. I HAVE TO DRIVE WITH HIGH-BEAMS ON TO BE ABLE TO SEE THE ROAD. THIS IS NOT A PROBLEM WITH ONLY MY VEHICLE. I SEE MOISTURE INSIDE OF ABOUT 80 PERCENT OF THE AVENGERS I PASS ON THE ROAD. THE COVERAGE OVER THE HEADLIGHT LENSES JUST GETS WORSE AS TIME GOES BY. THE LIGHT EMITTING FROM THE HEADLIGHTS BECOMES DIMMER AND DIMMER. WITH REGULAR BEAMS AT NIGHT, IT IS ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE EVERYTHING A DRIVER IS SUPPOSED TO. THESE HEADLIGHTS ARE A BIG PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR. THEY ARE A SAFETY HAZARD THAT SHOULD BE TAKEN CARE OF. PAYING $750 TO FIX A MANUFACTURERS' SAFETY DEFECT IS NOT REASONABLE. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS. MR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION WITH A CONCRETE WALL AT 60 MPH IMPACT, AND NEITHER AIR BAG DEPLOYED. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE NOT BEEN NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AKI
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-02
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y6VE
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE HAD A RATTLE THAT SEEMED TO EXTEND THROUGH THE ENTIRE VEHICLE, DEALER STATED THE NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE BRAKES, HOWEVER THE CONSUMER DECLINED THESE REPAIRS, THE DEALER LATER FOUND THE PROBLEM WAS DUE TO A CRACKED ENGINE MOUNT, THEY FOUND A CRACK ON THE REAR RIGHT SIDE AND ANOTHER ON THE LEFT FRONT SIDE, CONSUMER HAD ANOTHER INSPECTION IN WHICH ANOTHER PERSON STATED THERE WERE NO PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKES OR MOTOR MOUNT, THE PROBLEM WAS WITH THE LOWER CONTROL ARM JOINTS, CONSUMER HAD RECALL REPAIRS PREVIOUSLY, 00V421002, THE INDEPENDENT GARAGE MADE REPAIRS TO THE JOINTS AND THE VEHICLE IS NO LONGER EXPERIENCING ANY OF THE PROBLEMS, CONSUMER IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT. *SLC
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-02
- VIN: 4B3AU52N7VE
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DOOR HINGE ON DRIVERS SIDE BUSTED AND NEEDS TO BE WELDED ,BY NO FAULT OF MINE. I HAVE TALKED TO AUTO BODY SHOPS THAT HAVE HAD TO FIX NUMEROUS DOORS ON OTHER AVENGERS. I THINK THIS SHOULD BE LOOKED INTO .I DO NOT THINK I SHOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR SOMETHING THAT IS CLEARLY A DEFECT.I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHERE I CAN FILE A COMPLAINT BECAUSE I THINK THIS IS A REAL DANGER WHEN YOUR DOOR ON A VEHICLE DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY I WILL LOOK INTO THIS MATTER MORE SO ANYTHING YOU CAN DO ,PLEASE CONTACT ME [XXX]. *AK PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-01
- VIN: 4B3AU42Y7VE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: A LEAKING HEAD GASKET WAS CONFIRMED BY OUR LOCAL DODGE DEALERSHIP, AT WHICH TIME THEY VOLUNTEERED INFORMATION THAT "INFERIOR" HEADGASKET MATERIAL HAD BEEN USED WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED. I ASKED IF IT HAD BEEN RECALLED AND WAS ADVISED THAT IT HAD NOT. I WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO OTHER RELIEF AVAILABLE, AS THE WARRANTY HAD LONG EXPIRED. I OBTAINED A QUOTE FOR REPAIRS FROM THE DEALERSHIP AND SEVERAL INDEPENDENT SHOPS. BECAUSE OF A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE IN PRICE, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AT THE DODGE DEALERSHIP. WHEN THE WORK WAS COMPLETED, I WAS INFORMED BY THE INDEPENDENT SHOP THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WE COULD HAVE DONE, IN DRIVING THE VEHICLE, TO CAUSE THE HEADGASKET TO FAIL. THEY FURTHER ADVISED THAT THE REPLACEMENT GASKET, WHICH WAS PURCHASED FROM DODGE, WAS TOTALLY REDESIGNED. ON MY RETURN HOME, I CALLED THE DAIMLER CHRYSLER CONSUMER HOT LINE. THEIR REPRESENTATIVE QUICKLY OFFERED TO REIMBURSE THE COST OF THE HEAD GASKET MATERIALS, BUT WOULD NOT REIMBURSE LABOR COSTS, AS THE REPAIRS HAD NOT BEEN PERFORMED AT ONE OF THEIR DEALERSHIPS. IT WAS OF NO CONCERN TO THEIR HOT LINE REPRESENTATIVE THAT ONE OF THEIR OWN DEALERSHIPS HAD ADVISED THAT NO RECOURSE WAS AVAILABLE TO US.*JB
1997 Dodge Avenger recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1997 Dodge Avenger.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: AIRTEX PRODUCTS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN AIRTEX FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLIES, P/N E7081H, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE WALL OF THE FLARED FITTING OF THE FUEL PUMP IS NOT THICK ENOUGH TO PREVENT THE MATING THREADED FITTINGS FROM BOTTOMING OUT BEFORE AN ADEQUATE SEAL IS ACHIEVED. THIS CONDITION MAY RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF FUEL AT THE CONNECTION OF THE VEHICLE FUEL LINE AND THE FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLY.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AIRTEX AUTOMOTIVE AT 800-880-3056.
- Manufacturer: TRADESONIC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION WERE DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY, DIRT AND WATER CAN INTRUDE. ALSO, MMC HAS ADDED THE POTENTIAL OF LEAKING MOISTURE, WHICH CAN CAUSE THE BALL STUD TO CORRODE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT TO SEPARATE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. THIS CAMPAIGN SUPERCEDES MMC'S PREVIOUS SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN, SEE 99V-066.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT FOR WEAR. BALL JOINTS THAT EXHIBIT WEAR BEYOND THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEWLY DESIGNED LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS. BALL JOINTS THAT ARE WITHIN THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE CLEANED AND A SPECIAL SEALANT WILL BE APPLIED TO PREVENT INTRUSION OF MOISTURE.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
- Summary: THE HEADREST GUIDE BRACKET WAS IMPROPERLY WELDED TO THE SEAT BACK FRAME ON THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BACK ASSEMBLIES ONLY.
- Consequence: THE HEADREST SUPPORT BRACKET CAN BREAK, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PASSENGER SEAT BACK ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ASSEMBLY.
Negative 1997 Dodge Avenger car reviews
Positive 1997 Dodge Avenger car reviews
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You have had this car since 1997 and you love it! It has been a fairly low maintenance car and it runs great! It still looks brand new except for the side mirrors that are a little faded from
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I just got my Avenger and I love it so far! Although, I have noticed that the seats are a bit uncomfortable and it can be difficult to see behind you when backing up, especially in your blind spot. It seems like the 6 in mine just drinks gas like people drink water. However, the design is really nice and it's very fun to drive. Plus, the factory stereo is great! I do hope it doesn't have any problems like some I've read about on the net...
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The Avenger is an exceptional car for the money, and it has enough power, looks, and features to keep it in my garage.
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This sports car may not be the fastest on the road, but it is definitely a damn good one!
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I loved reading your story about your car! It sounds like you had a lot of fun driving it. I can understand how having a baby would make you want to switch to a more practical car, but it's great that you found a 4-door sedan that you like. It's totally understandable that you didn't want to go straight to a mini-van. I'm sure you have a lot of great memories with your Avenger, and it's okay to feel a little sad about letting it go.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Dodge Avenger problems:
Q&A: 97 Dodge Avenger Car Problems - 1997 Dodge Avenger ...
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Jan 23, 2023 ... I have a 2.0L base 4 cylinder 1997 dodge avenger. I posted about this before and now the problem persists. My car has been recently stalling ...
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Our list of 20 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2009 Dodge Avenger ... common issues based on car owner complaints ... 1997 Dodge Avenger ...
suspension problems | Dodge Avenger Forum
Feb 6, 2009 ... I have a 97 Avenger ES and an 08 Avenger SXT and i'm having problems out of the 97. In the mornings when i'm going to work i'll start it up ...
Other years of Dodge Avenger
Are you having problems with your 1997 Dodge Avenger?
Columbus Glover 2024-09-17
Looking for a reliable commuter car? The Mitsubishi is a great option! It may look like a Dodge, but it offers unique features that make it stand out. With a weight of 4000 lbs and a fuel efficiency of over 30 MPG, it strikes a great balance. As someone who commutes 50 miles each way over a 1800 foot pass in the silicone valley, I can attest to its reliability. Just make sure to take care of the timing belt to avoid costly repairs. Overall, it's the best Dodge commuter until the new Challenger gets 30MPG and you have 30K to spare. I even got one for my daughter and I'm considering getting more. Thanks Brad for the recommendation!
Caleb Metz 2024-07-22
During the 3 years of ownership, the car experienced trouble-free performance for the first 1.5 years, but unfortunately, the last 1.5 years were plagued with issues. Despite regular oil changes, unexpected problems arose, such as the need to replace the power steering pump. Regrettably, during the last visit to the shop, the car caught fire and was destroyed during a test drive.
Jo Emmerich 2024-06-28
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your car! It sounds like it's been pretty reliable so far, with only a minor issue with the water pump gasket. I can definitely understand how working under the hood can be tricky, especially if you don't have small hands. It's good to hear that the radio system is great, and that there's plenty of space inside. While the turning radius and visibility might not be perfect, it seems like the car is still doing its job nicely overall. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!