Positioning:
The 2004 Dodge Viper was a high-performance, exotic sports car positioned as a formidable competitor in the premium performance segment, offering raw power and track-focused capabilities.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Porsche 911, Ferrari 360 Modena, and Aston Martin DB7 Vantage of its era.
Performance Focus:
Renowned for its monstrous V10 engine, aggressive styling, rear-wheel drive, and uncompromising performance focus.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized a driver-centric experience with a minimalist interior and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and chassis dynamics.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (manual), clutch operation, drive axles.
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS).
Electrical:
Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), battery, fuses, basic electrical component identification.
Body:
Doors, windows, locks, mirrors, exterior features, interior controls and trim.
Operation:
Starting and driving procedures, dashboard indicators, warning lights, climate control operation, audio system controls.
Maintenance:
Recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tire rotations, brake inspections.
Diy Activities:
Jump-starting the battery, checking and topping off fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), changing wiper blades, basic tire pressure adjustment.
Safety:
Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraint system installation, emergency procedures, roadside safety recommendations.
Towing:
Towing considerations, towing capacity (if applicable), trailer wiring information (if applicable).
Depth:
Covers essential information for the owner to operate, maintain, and understand the vehicle's basic functions and safety features. Does not include in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Manufacturer:
Tremec (TR-6060, heavily modified for Viper)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Manual only)
Clutch Type:
Heavy-duty twin-plate dry clutch system
Length:
180.7 inches (4590 mm)
Width:
74.9 inches (1903 mm)
Height:
47.1 inches (1196 mm)
Wheelbase:
96.2 inches (2444 mm)
Front Track:
60.1 inches (1526 mm)
Rear Track:
59.9 inches (1521 mm)
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 5.4 cubic feet (153 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,160 - 3,200 lbs (1433 - 1451 kg), depending on trim and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approximately 4,300 lbs (1950 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated (as is common for low-volume exotic sports cars of this era)
IIHS Side Impact:
Not rated
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-Point Seat Belts with Pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll bar behind seats (standard feature)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, typically featuring 6-8 speakers. Advanced infotainment features were not a primary focus of the Viper.
Driver Assistance:
ABS and Traction Control are the primary electronic driver aids. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist.
Connectivity:
Basic functionality, no Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone integration typically found in modern vehicles.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or as recommended based on wear patterns.
Brake Inspection Interval:
Recommended at every oil change or more frequently during spirited driving.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-30, meeting Chrysler MS-AEC1024 or API SJ/SL classification (refer to manual for exact spec).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MTL) or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9417 specification.
Differential Fluid:
Mopar Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5) with limited-slip additive.
Common Issues General:
While generally robust, common concerns for Viper owners can include clutch wear due to aggressive driving, potential for oil leaks (especially valve cover gaskets), and the need for specialized maintenance due to the unique V10 powertrain. Early third-gen models sometimes had minor electrical gremlins or HVAC system quirks. Regular attention to cooling system integrity is paramount.
Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Viper being its halo car, embodying raw power and American muscle.
Generation:
Third Generation (SR II) Viper, introduced for the 2003 model year.
Key Changes 2003:
Significant redesign including an all-new chassis, revised aerodynamics, increased engine displacement, and improved interior refinement compared to the previous generation.
Production Location:
Conner Avenue Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA
Production Years Gen 3:
2003-2006
