1997 DODGE Avenger Problems

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Complaints Reported

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Complaints by Component

SUSPENSION

20 complaints

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

May 06, 2005

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

Apr 12, 2005

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

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

Jan 25, 2005

(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.

Jun 01, 2004

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

May 07, 2004

Crash: 1

+ 15 more complaints for this component

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

12 complaints

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

Dec 02, 2003

BRAKES VIBRATE, SQUEAL, AND GRIND W/METAL TO METAL SOUND. NO APPARENT CAUSE.

Dec 21, 2000

FRONT BRAKE ROTORS KEPT WARPING. HAVE TAKEN TO DEALER 6 TIMES FOR REPAIRS & EACH TIME PROBLEM OF WARPING REAPPEARED. WHENEVER BRAKES PULSATE IT CAUSED VEHICLE TO SHAKE. MANUFACTURER REFUSING TO LET DEALER WORK ON THE BRAKE ROTOR PROBLEM. *AK BRAKE PADS ARE LOW. THE VEHICLE HISITATES WHEN BRAKING DUE TO FRONT BRAKE ROTOR FAILURE. FRONT ROTORS PULSATE STILL AFTER BEING REPLACED. FRONT HUBS WERE BAD AND CAUSED DAMAGE TO ROTORS AND PADS. BRAKES PULSATE WHEN USED. FRONT ROTORS NEED RESURFACING. *YH

Sep 26, 2000

BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS ARE PREMATURELY WEARING OUT, AND HAVE BEEN REPLACED FOUR TIMES WITHIN 50,000 MILES. CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK

Aug 23, 2000

WHEN BRAKES MAKE LOUD THUMPING NOISE ,BRAKE PEDAL WILL GO TO FLOOR, TAKING A APPROXIMATELY 1 MINUTE BEFORE BRAKES ENGAGE, CAUSING EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. *AK

Oct 19, 1999

+ 7 more complaints for this component

AIR BAGS

10 complaints

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

Aug 31, 2004

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

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

Sep 09, 2002

Crash: 1

NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK

Sep 08, 2002

Crash: 1

Injuries: 3

FRONTAL COLLISION ON A WET ROAD CONDITION AT 40 MPH, IN WHICH BOTH AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK

Jun 26, 2001

Crash: 1

DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY AT IMPACT TO SEVERE FRONT END DAMAGE. *AK

Jan 27, 2001

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

+ 5 more complaints for this component

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

8 complaints

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

Sep 26, 2007

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

Feb 09, 2005

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

Nov 10, 2004

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

Oct 08, 2002

THE HOUSINGS FOR THE HEADLIGHTS ARE SUPPOSED TO BE SEALED. MOISTURE HAS FORMED INSIDE OF THE UNITS AND LIMITS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE LIGHTS, CREATING AN UNSAFE DRIVING SITUATION AT NIGHT. THE ONLY WAY TO FIX THE PROBLEM,THE UNITS CANNOT BE OPPENED FOR CLEANING, IS TO BUY NEW UNITS FOR $300 EACH. THIS IS UNREASONABLE AND IRRESPONSIBLE DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING. *AK

Feb 23, 2002

+ 3 more complaints for this component

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

7 complaints

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

Dec 26, 2006

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

May 02, 2002

CONSUMER STATED THE SERPENTINE BELT HAD CRACKED AND GLAZED, THE DEALER REPLACED THE BELT, HOWEVER CONSUMER STATED THE BELTS ARE STILL NOISY.*JB

Mar 04, 2002

THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL. I HAVE LOW MILES ON MY CAR & THEIR SHOULD BE NO REASON WHY MY HEAD GASKET NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. I HAVE MY CAR SERVICED FOR OIL CHANGES ON A REGULAR BASIS. I READ PEOPLE'S COMPLAINTS & THE AMOUNT OF PEOPLE THAT HAD TO REPLACE THEIR HEAD GASKET IS RIDUCULOUS. THIS SHOULD DEFINANTELY BE A RE CALL. I CONTACTED CYRSLER BUT IT SEEMS THEY CANNOT BE BOTHERED. I ALSO FOUND THAT THE DODGE NEONS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY CRYSLER DOES NOT LOOK INTO THIS FURTHER. THEIR ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS.*AK

Jan 09, 2002

NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOV EVEHICLE. *AK

Jan 02, 2002

+ 2 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

5 complaints

WHILE DRIVING, ALL ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS IN DASHBOARD SHORTED OUT. A FEW SECONDS LATER, ENGINE WENT DEAD. DEALER SAID A WIRE MELTED AND REPLACED IT.*AK WIRES TO DOME LIGHT ALSO FAILED. *TT

Apr 12, 2001

INITIAL PROBLEM CAR HESITATED , LIGHTS , A/C , RADIO AND OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS BEGAN TO BLINK AND GO ON AND OFF. CAR BEGAN TO HESITATE ,SHUT OFF ALL ELECTRICAL ITEMS AND TRIED TO MAKE IT HOME. CAR STALLED AS I ENTERED MY DRIVEWAY. HAD CAR TOWED TO DEALER. THEY SAID BATTERY WAS BAD.INSTALLED NEW BATTERY. DROVE CAR APPROX. 1/4 MILE FROM SERVICE DEPT. , BATTERY LIGHT CAME ON. RETURNED TO DEALER. CHECKED CAR AGAIN AND SAID FUSE BOX WAS BAD. INSTALLED NEW FUSE BOX, CAR WAS FINE FOR ABOUT THREE MONTHS. NEWLY INSTALLED FUSE BOX SHORTS OUT AND CATCHES FIRE AND ALSO BURNS WIRING HARNESS. THIS TIME THIRD FUSE BOX INSTALLED, WIRING HARNESS AND MANY RELAYS REPLACED.

Oct 26, 1999

IGNITION KEY WILL NOT RELEASE FROM KEYWAY WHEN PLACED IN "PARK.".....ALL SETS OF KEYS!

Jan 09, 1999

IGNITION SWITCH FAILED RESULTING IN FAILURE OF WINDOWS, A/C AND ABS BRAKES ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS.

Oct 08, 1998

WIRING HARNESS WAS RUBBING ON HOOD INSULATION. THE INSULATION WAS RUBBED THROUGH AND THE WIRES WERE BARE.

Aug 12, 1998

WHEELS

3 complaints

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

Apr 24, 2012

17 " ALUM. WHEELS BEND VERY EASILY OVER NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS. *AK

May 25, 2000

17" WHEEL RIMS BEND VERY EASILY,ONCE BENDING NEED TO REPLACE ENTIRE WHEEL. ALSO, CAUSED HE LUG:NUTS TO BREAK OFF.

Oct 26, 1998

STRUCTURE

3 complaints

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

Apr 20, 2005

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).

Jul 07, 2002

DOOR POWER LOCK MOTOR FAILED. YH

Feb 01, 1999

POWER TRAIN

3 complaints

CONSUMER WAS INFORMED BY DEALERSHIP THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID WAS LEAKING.*JB

Mar 04, 2002

WHILE DRIVING TRANSMISSION STARTED TO SLIP AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS DUE TO A FAILED OVERDRIVE HUB. DEALER HAS INSPECTED VEHICLE. *AK

Jun 20, 2000

TRANSMISSION CLUTCH FAILED CAUSING VEHICLE TO JUMP OUT OF GEAR.

Jun 03, 1997

STEERING

3 complaints

CONSUMER STATES AFTER RECALL WAS PERFORMED ON THE SUSPENSION, CONSUMER WENT TO PICK THE VEHICLE UP AND PROCEEDED TO DRIVE, CONSUMER HAD A HARD TIME CONTROLLING THE STEERING WHEEL, CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THE POWER STEERING RACK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED WHICH CONTAINED A LOT PLAY, CONSUMER PICKED THE VEHICLE UP 2 DAYS LATER AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS SHIMMYING, CONSUMER WAS THEN INFORMED THAT THE TIRES SHOULD BE CHECKED, IT WAS THEN DISCOVERED THAT THE INSIDE OF THE TIRES DID NOT HAVE ANY THREAD, BOTH FRONT TIRES WERE BALD ON THE INSIDE, AND THE TIRES WERE ONLY 1 YEAR OLD, LATER CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THIS COULD HAVE HAPPENED DUE TO THE POWER STEERING PROBLEMS.*JB

Mar 04, 2002

WANT TO KNOW IF THERE HAS BEEN OTHER COMPLAINTS OR A RECALL. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK

Feb 06, 2001

I FEEL IT WAS DUE TO MY STEERING LOCKING COLUMN FAILURE THAT I GOT CAUGHT IN A SNOW DRIFT, RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT. *AK

Jun 15, 1999

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

VISIBILITY

2 complaints

WINDSHIELD CRACKED WHEN VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVEN AND PARKED FOR A WEEKEND. CAUSE UNKNOWN. DLR CANNOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK

Aug 11, 1999

WINDSHIELD WAS TOO SMALL WHEN INSTALLED CAUSING THE RUBBER MOLDING AND THE SEALANT TO COME OUT.

Jul 24, 1998

SEAT BELTS

2 complaints

PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT STAYS LOCKED WHILE JUST SITTING STILL. CONSUMER HAS TO PRESS THE RELEASE BUTTON ABOUT 3 OR 4 TIMES BEFORE THE BELT RELEASES. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALER, BUT THE DEALER HASN'T BEEN ABLE TO FIX THE PROBLEM. *AK

Jul 30, 1997

SEAT BELTS ARE TOO TIGHT. DEALER SAYS THAT THIS IS NORMAL. *AK

Apr 07, 1997

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

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

Jan 09, 2006

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT

1 complaint

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

Jan 07, 2005

AIR BAGS,SEATS

1 complaint

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)

Nov 19, 2004

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS,TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

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....

Jan 15, 2004

SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,WHEELS

1 complaint

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.

Jan 15, 2004

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EQUIPMENT

1 complaint

I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKES SINCE I PURCHASED THE CAR TWO YEARS AGO. I HAVE HAD THEM REPAIRED SEVERAL TIMES WITH NO LUCK IN IMPROVEMENT. THEY FUNCTION FINE, BUT FEEL 'SOFT' AND THEY PULSATE. THE LAST TIME I HAD THEM FIXED, THE DEALER REPLACED THE PADS WITH CHRYSLER PADS AND TURNED THE ROTORS. THEY STILL DID NOT FEEL THEY WAY THEY WERE SUPPOSED TO FEEL. ** AS FAR AS THE AC, WHEN I PUSH THE BUTTON TO USE THE AC AND TURN THE DIAL TO 'COLD', HOT AIR STILL COMES OUT OF THE VENTS AS IF THE HEAT IS STILL ON.*AK

Jul 07, 2001

AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION . UPON IMPACT, AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, RESULTING IN MINOR INJURIES. ALSO, RESTRAINTS DID NOT RETRACT.*AK

Mar 27, 2001

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

RICON FLEET DEFECT. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. AK SCC ***DIMSII IVOQ ENTRY POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT-OVER TO ARTEMIS******741473

Feb 24, 2001

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

TRANSMISSION WENT ON MAIN HIGHWAY, RIMS FELL PULLED AWAY FROM TIRESON BOTH FRONT ENDS CAUSING FLAT TIRES ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS NAD REPLACEMENT OF THEM. ALMOST CRASHED SEVERAL TIMES DUE TO THIS. DRIVE DOOR DOES NOT CLOSE PROPERLY ALL THE TIME, IT IS NOT ALIGNED CORRECTLY. BRAKES HAD TO BE FIXED SEVERAL TIMES AND NOW BALL BEARINGS ARE WARN AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. BATTERY FREQUENTLY GETS CORRODED. ALL THESE PROBLEMS WITHIN THE PAST 3 YEARS.*AK

Feb 02, 2001

TIRES,WHEELS

1 complaint

WHEELS ARE CAUSING PROBLEM WITH TIRES NOT MAINTAINING AIR PRESSURE, AND CAUSING EXCESSIVE WEAR OF TIRES. DEALER NOTIFIED, AND REPAIRED WHEELS AND TIRES. BUT, PROBLEM HAS REOCCURRED SIX MONTHS LATER. *AK THERE HAS BEEN EXCESSIVE WEAR OF THE TIRES AND PROBLEM OF MAINTAINING AIR PRESSURE, THE CUSTOMER WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE. *YH

Jan 10, 2001

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

THERE IS A GRINDING NOISE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE VEHICLES WHEN YOU ARE DRIVING IN TOWN AND ON THE HIGHWAY. DODGE FIXED THE VEHICLE ONCE AND HAD TO REPLACE THE DIFFERENTIAL ASSY. THEY SAID IT WAS AN INTERNAL PROBLEM AND DID REPAIRS ON THE REAR AXLE, ASSY. AND BEARING, TRANSMISSION AND OTHER MAJOR PARTS. *AK

Jul 17, 2000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY,WHEELS,EQUIPMENT

1 complaint

THE FRONT BRAKE ROTORS WARP AND THEN A PULSATION IS CONSTANTLY FELT FROM THAT POINT ON UNTIL RESUFACING OF THE ROTORS IS PERFORMED. ORIGINAL DEALER WAS ASKED AND SERVICE ADVISOR STATED IT WAS THE NATURE OF THE BEAST, THEY ALL DO THAT. THE LAST TIME THE CAR WAS IN FOR BRAKE SERVICE, AT SANDY MCKIE CHRYSLER PLYMOUTH DODGE IN FOX LAKE ILLINOIS, THE WARPING RETURNED WITHIN 1500 MILES AND THE TECHNICIAN FAILED TO TIGHTEN ALL 10 LUGNUTS HOLDING THE FRONT WHEELS ON. THE RADIO DECIDES NOT TO ACCEPT C.D.S AND WAS REPLACED TWICE. THE SUNROOF HAD BAD RATTLING AND IT TOOK NUMEROUS TRIPS TO THE DEALER BEFORE THEY COULD CURE THE PROBLEM. DEALER CLAIMS SUNROOF SHADE WAS THE CAUSE OF THE NOISE. THE FOG LAMPS LOOSE THEIR SEAL AND FILL WITH MOISTURE. TWO OCCASIONS SO FAR. *AK

Mar 30, 2000

TIRES

1 complaint

FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE HAS A REOCCURRING LEAKING PROBLEM. DEALER HAS SEEN VEHICLE, AND SAID THERE IS NO LEAK IN THE VEHICLE. *AK

Sep 29, 1999

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE

1 complaint

BRAKES FAILED @ 35 MPH; REGAINED BRAKES THEREAFTER; EMERGENCY BRAKE STUCK (DEALER CLAIMS NOTHING WRONG).

Jan 01, 1999

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

PROBLEM 1: SINCE JULY '98, I HAVE OBSERVED (SMELLED) NOXIOUS FUMES -NOT YOUR TYPICAL SULPHURIC ROTTEN EGG SMELL-WHEN I ACCELERATE,USUALLY ABOVE 40MPH. THE SMELL IS OUTSIDE THE CAR,BUT IN SUMMER AND WARM MONTHS IT'S QUITE OVERPOWERING WITH THE WINDOWS DOWN. I HAVE TAKEN IT IN AT LEAST 3 TIMES FOR THIS PROBLEM, THE SERVICE DEPT. SAYS THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT-IT'S "NORMAL"-I UNDERSTAND SOME SULPHURIC SMELL, BUT THIS IS NOT "ACCEPTABLE" OR "NORMAL"! THEY ARE BASICALLY TELLING ME TO DEAL WITH IT, BUT THEY AREN'T THE ONES WHO HAVE TO DRIVE THE CAR EVERY DAY AND HAVE THE FUMES OVERPOWER THEM WHENEVER THEY PUT DOWN THE WINDOWS. PROBLEM 2: MY PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT RESTRAINT LOCKS AND WON'T UNLOCK UNTIL YOU DISENGAGE IT FROM THE LATCH. IT WAS FOUND TO BE A PROBLEM WHEN I FIRST BOUGHT THE CAR, AND WAS SUPPOSEDLY REPLACED WITH A WHOLE NEW ASSEMBLY. HOWEVER, THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. ONCE AGAIN, I FEEL UNABLE TO GET THE DEALERSHIPS TO RESPOND TO MY INQUIRIES. HELPLESS, IF YOU MAY....THE BELT CONTINUES TO LOCK, AND I'M AFRAID IN THE FUTURE IT COULD LEAD TO A SERIOUS INJURY TO ANYONE IN THE PASSENGER SEAT IF I HAVE TO COME TO AN ABRUPT STOP. PLEASE TELL ME IF YOU CAN HELP ME. I AM CURRENTLY WRITING TO CHRYSLER'S CUSTOMER CENTER WITH MY COMPLAINT.

Dec 28, 1998

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS

1 complaint

LEFT INTERSTATE AND ENTERING ROADWAY WHEN CONSUMER BEGAN TO BRAKE AND THERE WERE NO BRAKES. REAR ENDED A 18-WHEELER. VEHICLE COULD NOT BE STOPPED, THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. DRIVER AND SON WERE INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. CONSUMER CALLED CHRYSLER AND THEY SAID THAT BECAUSE THE MANIFOLD HAS SO MUCH DAMAGE DUE TO THE CRASH, THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE WHETHER CONSUMER HAD NO BRAKES PRIOR TO CRASH. *AK

May 05, 1998

Crash: 1

Injuries: 2

4.5/5.0

80 reviews

Where to Find VIN for Problems Check

To check for problems and complaints on your 1997 DODGE Avenger, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.

Where to Find VIN Number on 1997 DODGE Avenger for Problems Lookup - Dashboard, Door Jamb, Engine Bay, Documents

Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports

Each character in your 1997 DODGE Avenger 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.

1997 DODGE Avenger VIN Structure for Complaint Verification - WMI, VDS, Check Digit, Model Year, Plant Code

How to Check 1997 DODGE Avenger Problems in 3 Steps

Locate Your VIN

Find the 17-character VIN on your 1997 DODGE Avenger dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.

Review by Component

Browse owner-reported complaints organized by vehicle component (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical) to identify common issues and problem patterns for this model year.

Check Safety Issues

Review crash and fire incidents for each component to assess safety concerns. Contact your DODGE dealer or report problems to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 1997 DODGE Avenger have?

The 1997 DODGE Avenger currently has 94 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 1997 DODGE Avenger?

The most common problems reported for the 1997 DODGE Avenger are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 1997 DODGE Avenger problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 1997 DODGE Avenger comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

How do I report problems with my 1997 DODGE Avenger?

You can report safety problems with your 1997 DODGE Avenger directly to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov or call 1-888-327-4236. Your complaint helps identify patterns and may lead to recalls or investigations.

Where can I find my VIN to check problems?

Your 1997 DODGE Avenger VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.

Is the 1997 DODGE Avenger reliable?

Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 1997 DODGE Avenger. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.