2003 Dodge Viper problems
The Dodge Viper is a sports car that was manufactured by Dodge (by SRT for 2013 and 2014), a division of American car manufacturer FCA US LLC from 1992 until 2017, having taken a brief hiatus in 2007, and from 2010 to 2012. Production of the two-seat sports car began at New Mack Assembly Plant in 1991 and moved to Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in October 1995.
Although Chrysler considered ending production because of serious financial problems, on September 14, 2010, then-chief executive Sergio Marchionne announced and previewed a new model of the Viper for 2012. In 2014, the Viper was named number 10 on the "Most American Cars" list, meaning 75% or more of its parts are manufactured in the U.S. The Viper was eventually discontinued in 2017 after approximately 32,000 were produced over the 26 years of production.
The 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time on a Viper varies from around 3.5 to 4.5 seconds. Top speed ranges from 160 mph (260 km/h) to over 200 mph (320 km/h), depending on variant and year.
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Common 2003 Dodge Viper problems
The Dodge Viper 2003 is a high-performance sports car that has gained a reputation for its power and unique design. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its common problems and issues. Here are some of the most frequently reported problems with the Dodge Viper 2003 based on complaints from owners of this car:
- Tire availability: The car came with 275/40-17s up front, and 335/35-17s in the rear, which are not a common size. Viper clubs often set up group buys to get new tires at a reasonable price. Later on, the car got a slightly more accessible 18-inch wheel and tire package.
- Piston ring issues: Early Vipers suffered from piston ring issues, which led to high oil consumption problems. This led to several engine replacements early on, while the cars were still under warranty. If you’re the type that needs numbers-matching everything, it may be worthwhile to compare block numbers to VINs.
- Leaking from the thermostat gasket: This is a common issue on earlier Vipers, and can be easily fixed by replacing the gasket.
- Leaks from the rear main seal and timing cover gaskets: This is a common issue on later production cars, and can be fixed by replacing the gaskets.
- Cracks and failures in rubber pieces: As Vipers begin to age, rubber pieces like coolant hoses, bushings, and belts will begin to crack and fail. It is recommended to get a pre-purchase inspection to find any underlying issues.
- Power steering pump pulley failure: This is a well-known failure item, and can be fixed by replacing the pulley.
- Sagging door hinges: Some owners have reported saggy door hinges, which allow the door to ride too low in its opening, over time. This can be fixed by realigning or replacing the hinge.
- Rockers panel/exhaust cover area: Check for signs of damaged paint, scrapes, dents, or rust, especially beneath. If the paint has been compromised, rust will likely begin to form – and these panels are pricey to replace.
- Stability and traction aids: The Viper has a reputation for being a handful of a car to control, and it has no stability and traction aids. Many owners have suffered crashes, contributing to Viper’s reputation for being hard to control.
It is important to note that despite these common problems, the Dodge Viper 2003 is still a high-performance sports car that is loved by many enthusiasts. With proper maintenance and care, many of these issues can be avoided or fixed.
What was wrong with Dodge Viper?
Common Issues with the Dodge Viper
Driveline clunks when accelerating or decelerating. Click or pop in the car when the clutch is released. Water leaks from the top and side curtains.
What year Viper was most reliable?
On average, you'll find that most people consider Dodge Vipers to be very reliable vehicles, capable of doing well over 40,000 miles without running into any maintenance problems or concerns. However, the most reliable and possibly most popular year for the Dodge Viper was 2013.
How many miles will a Dodge Viper last?
Typically, you can expect a Dodge Viper to survive around 120,000 miles, though some might make it a little longer with the proper maintenance. You can play a role in the lifespan if you put in work whenever problems pop up in the Viper.
Why were Vipers discontinued?
Initially, Fiat Chrysler cited poor sales as a reason for discontinuing the Viper; however, other sources have stated the car was discontinued because the Viper was unable to comply with FMVSS 226 safety regulation, which requires side-curtain air bags.
Is the Dodge Viper engine reliable?
Are Dodge Vipers Generally Reliable? On average, you'll find that most people consider Dodge Vipers to be very reliable vehicles, capable of doing well over 40,000 miles without running into any maintenance problems or concerns. However, the most reliable and possibly most popular year for the Dodge Viper was 2013.
Why did the Viper fail?
Initially, Fiat Chrysler cited poor sales as a reason for discontinuing the Viper; however, other sources have stated the car was discontinued because the Viper was unable to comply with FMVSS 226 safety regulation, which requires side-curtain air bags.
What generation is a 2003 Viper?
Third Generation
Third Generation
A new Viper roadster arrived for the 2003 model year dubbed the Viper SRT-10. With input from Chrysler's SRT performance division, the only model offered initially was a roadster, which featured sharper lines than the curvaceous first- and second-gen Vipers.
Why were Dodge Vipers destroyed?
So per the original agreement when the cars were sent to the schools it was no surprise when dodge. Asked for a back viper's rounded up rip to shreds. Never to be dismantled by a high school.
2003 Dodge Viper car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Viper problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Steering problems
- Suspension problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Dodge Viper vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2003 Dodge Viper complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Dodge Viper.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-30
- VIN: 1B3JR65Z23V
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PLASTIC BUSHING ON CLUTCH LEVER WEARS OUT AND DISENGAGES FROM PEDAL WHILE DRIVING. CAUSING INABILITY TO SHIFT GEARS. VERY DANGEROUS IN TRAFFIC.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-17
- VIN: 1B3JR65Z33V
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE VIPER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 15V046000 (AIR BAGS) AND 13V040000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PARTS NEEDED TO PERFORM THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-01
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2003 DODGE VIPER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIR BAG SYSTEM OCCUPANT RESTRAINT CONTROL MODE RECALL NOTICE. *SMD THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER, THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL, AND THERE WAS NO ESTIMATED TIME OF ARRIVAL.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE VIPER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, A GRINDING SOUND WAS COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD NOT TURN. THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A BUILDING. THE POLICE REPORTED TO THE SCENE AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT WAS UNCONSCIOUS AND TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL VIA AMBULANCE WHERE HE LATER REGAINED CONSCIOUSNESS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO STATED THAT THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARM AND BALL JOINTS WERE FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 300. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-11-16
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: IT IS KNOWN FACT THAT ALL DODGE VIPERS BUILT BETWEEN 2003-2010 HAVE POWER WINDOW REGULATORS THAT FAIL ON A REGULAR BASIS. THE PLASTIC TUBING BREAKS AND THE WINDOWS WILL NO LONGER MOVE. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN ON MULTIPLE FRONTS WHERE A NEED COULD ARISE TO ESCAPE THE CAR THROUGH THE WINDOW. IF THE REGULATOR HAS FAILED, AND THE WINDOW IS IN THE "UP" POSITION, THERE ADDITIONAL HAZARDS. BECAUSE THE REGULATOR IS DESIGNED TO SLIGHTLY LOWER THE WINDOW WHEN CLOSING THE DOOR, IF IT STOPS FUNCTIONING, THE CLOSING OF THE VEHICLE DOORS CREATES STRESS ON THE GLASS. THERE ARE NUMEROUS ACCOUNTS OF WINDOWS BREAKING WHILE A VEHICLE IS SIMPLY PARKED AND STILL OTHERS WHERE THE WINDOW FINALLY GIVE WAY TO THE STRESSES OF THE EXTRA PRESSURE AND EXPLODE WHILE DRIVING. THIS CAUSES FLYING GLASS TO HIT THE OCCUPANTS CAUSING CUTS AND POSSIBLE BLINDNESS, AND COULD ALSO LEAD THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. REPLACEMENT REGULATORS ARE NOT ONLY HARD TO FIND, BUT ARE $1,000 EACH. DODGE HAS KNOWS ABOUT THIS ISSUE (AND KNOWN SINCE 2003 WHEN PROBLEMS BEGAN), BUT REFUSES TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. PLEASE SEE THE NUMEROUS ACCOUNTS ON VIPER CLUB OF AMERICA'S WEBSITE OR VIPER ALLEY. APPARENTLY THE DESIGN HAS FINALLY BEEN FIXED FOR THE 2013 VIPER, BUT IS UNCLEAR WHETHER THIS REGULATOR CAN RETROFITTED TO 2003-10 CARS. WITH THIS BEING A KNOWN (AND ADMITTED TO ISSUE) BY DODGE, AN IMMEDIATE SAFETY RECALL SHOULD BE ISSUED BY DODGE TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEMS AT NO CHARGE TO CURRENT OWNERS. IF DODGE CONTINUES TO BURY IT'S HEAD IN THE SAND ABOUT THIS, THEY ARE JUST AWAITING A LAWSUIT FOR WRONGFUL DEATH CAUSED BY THEIR NEGLIGENCE, WHICH WILL CARRY A HUGE PRICE TAG. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-10
- VIN: 5Y2SL64843Z
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY, WHILE DRIVING AT VERY LOW SPEED AND APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE PEDAL WENT DOWN TO THE FLOOR. ALSO WITHOUT PRESSING THE ACCELERATOR, THE VEHICLE SURGE. THE DEALERSHIP INSPECTED THE SEVERAL TIMES AND HAS NOT BEEN UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *JB
2003 Dodge Viper recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2003 Dodge Viper.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, to March 28, 2003, 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, to May 23 2003, and 2003-2004 Dodge Viper vehicles manufactured November 1, 2001, to June 30, 2004. Due to electrical noise beyond the tolerance of the air bag electronic control module (ECM), a component in the ECM may fail, causing the front air bags, side air bags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.
- Consequence: Inadvertent deployment of the air bags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler dealers will replace the air bag control module and side impact sensors as required, free of charge. This recall remedy was applied during earlier recall campaigns of these vehicles under safety recalls 12V527 and 13V040. All owners that have not had the recall repair performed under safety recalls 12V527 or 13V040 are strongly encouraged to have it performed and not wait for the final remedy to be deployed to the field. The recall began on December 29, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R06.
- Manufacturer: Chrysler Group LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2003 and 2004 Dodge Viper vehicles manufactured from November 1, 2001, through June 30, 2004. A component in the air bag control module may fail causing the front airbags and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.
- Consequence: Inadvertent deployment of the airbags and/or seat belt pretensioners could increase the risk of personal injury and the possibility of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. An interim notification iwas sent to owners on March 18, 2013. The recall began on March 26, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH PARK LAMP CONTACTS MAY CORRODE.
- Consequence: THIS CORROSION COULD CAUSE THE PARK LAMPS, HEAD LAMPS AND/OR INSTRUMENT PANEL LAMPS TO FLICKER OR BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS COULD AFFECT DRIVER VISIBILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REFLASH THE SOFTWARE IN THE BODY CONTROL MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 1, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PUMP WIRING MAY BECOME CHAFED BY AN UNDERBODY HEAT SHIELD.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP FUSE TO OPEN, RESULTING IN AN ENGINE STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A PROTECTIVE WRAP ON THE FUEL PUMP WIRING HARNESS AND COVER THE EDGE OF THE HEAT SHIELD. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 9, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Negative 2003 Dodge Viper car reviews
Positive 2003 Dodge Viper car reviews
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If you have the means, I highly recommend purchasing this car. It's an absolute blast to drive and incredibly fast. Personally, it's the best car I've ever owned!
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It's hot! Hi!
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I really love this model of the Viper. It's the best car I've ever driven, and it's definitely top of the line.
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This is the 5th Viper in my collection, and it's the cherry on top of the sundae. It's absolutely a fantastic vehicle. Dodge gets a thumbs up for this concept - an American supercar to go head to head with the best Europe has to offer, and the price cannot be beaten!
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The best car I have ever driven!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Dodge Viper problems:
'03 dodge viper reliability.... | FerrariChat
I have a "Generation 2" Viper GTS. The 2003 was the first year of the "Generation 3" model, and the Gen 3s have depreciated pretty quickly.
2005 Vipers Reliable? Common Problems? | Dodge SRT Viper ...
Dec 2, 2018 ... The prices of 2005 vipers are getting quite low and I would love to pic one up. I was wondering if they had major issues or if they can be ...
Thinking of buying a Viper SRT-10. Questions inside. | Viper Club of ...
Mar 16, 2005 ... What are the common problems / reliability issues with stock 05 Viper SRT-10's? 2. Does the convertible top leak water or make sound at high ...
Common Viper Problems? | Dodge SRT Viper Forums : ViperAlley
Aug 19, 2005 ... Well I've been searching the site trying to find if there are any common problems with Vipers, and have not come up with much.
2003 Dodge Viper Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Dodge Viper? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Dodge Viper.
Other years of Dodge Viper
Are you having problems with your 2003 Dodge Viper?
Raven Cassin 2024-01-29
At first, I was really excited about owning a Viper. It made me feel special when I drove it. However, during a date with my girlfriend, it stalled and we were stranded in the middle of nowhere for hours. Unfortunately, the 24-hour roadside assistance they promised us was not helpful and the mechanic they sent us didn't seem to know what he was doing.