1997 Dodge Avenger Suspension Problems
- Complaints
- 19about this part
- Share
- 23%of 83 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 120,000miles
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 19 complaints about the suspension of the 1997 Dodge Avenger, 23% of the 83 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 120,000 miles. 2 of these say a crash was involved, according to the filers. 1 recall campaign on record is filed under a similar system.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“(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. (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. …”
NHTSA complaint #10074613, filed 2004-06, 85,000 miles“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.”
NHTSA complaint #10072284, filed 2004-05, 100,000 miles“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.”
NHTSA complaint #10070983, filed 2004-01, 140,000 miles“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. Replaced lower control arm.”
NHTSA complaint #10117608, filed 2005-05, 145,050 miles“Creaking noise from front suspension. Received recall 967 and dealer did not use any parts to correct problem. 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.”
NHTSA complaint #10109753, filed 2005-01Related recalls
- 00V421002Dec 18, 2000Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. If the rubber boots on the lower lateral arm ball joints of the front suspension were damaged during assembly, dirt…Covers: Dodge Avenger 1995–2000, Chrysler Sebring 1995–2000, Eagle Talon 1995–1998
Suspension: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 7 | 3% |
| 2013 | 5 | 1% |
| 2012 | 10 | 2% |
| 2011 | 16 | 8% |
| 2010 | 1 | 1% |
| 2009 | 1 | 1% |
| 2008 | 18 | 2% |
| 2000 | 4 | 18% |
| 1999 | 13 | 21% |
| 1998 | 17 | 29% |
| 1997 | 19 | 23% |
| 1996 | 59 | 38% |
| 1995 | 59 | 30% |
Other parts of the 1997 Dodge Avenger
18 complaintsAir bags
13 complaintsEngine cooling
10 complaintsExterior lighting
6 complaintsWheels
6 complaintsElectrical system
5 complaintsSeat belts
4 complaintsSteering
4 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
4 complaintsBody and structure
3 complaintsTires
3 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
3 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1997 Dodge Avenger
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology