1997 Dodge Avenger Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.30/5 Average
39 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Front and rear styling is updated, while ES models lose the standard V6 engine. The V6 is available on base and ES models, and includes 17-inch wheels and tires on the ES. New colors inside and out and two additional speakers with cassette stereos further broaden the appeal of this roomy coupe.

Pros:
  • Good looks, big back seat, inexpensive, optional V-6 engine, standard ABS
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 39.00
  • What I think about this car. - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    An amazing vehicle indeed. I cant really find anything that is horribly wrong with it to where I would complain. I would recommend this car to anyone.

  • The Mitsubishi Camaro - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    In the three years I have driven it, the Avenger is an overall excellent car. Exterior styling is second only to the Viper. Handling exceeds the power for a stiff, yet solidly comfortable ride. Interior space is engineered to the max for functionality and comfort with basic, well-placed controls and ample trunk space. The 163HP V-6 is brisk, yet not overpowering and has had no real problems at all for 80,000+ miles. Performs at the fun-to-drive level and accessories are pleasing. Fuel mileage is decent, but could be better. Its a unique auto and turns heads wherever I go. Definitely a great car if taken care of properly. I will keep mine as long as I can.

  • Swishers review - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    This is a great car. Too bad the 6-cylinder didnt come in a stick, but the 2.0 liter DOHC 4 cylender is fun too. I heard some bad things about them, but I have loved mine and never had any major problems. You can mod the engine with Eclipse parts since Mitsubishi makes them both.

  • Looks good, but beware of repairs - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    I have had my avenger for 2 years now and I have put over $3,000 into it (not including routine maintance. Ive had 4 new struts, 2 control arms, 3 tires, 2 rims, front brakes, hole in exhaust, and new locks. Now the sunroof is broken, radio reception is terrible, leak near drivers door, and my interior lights and some warning lights (low gas) dont work. The tires and rims are very expensive to replace and a tune-up and timing belt will run $300 and $500. The turning radius is also terrible and the V6 engine sounds strained.

  • Been a real good car - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    This car has been a really good, reliable car. Its sporty, fun to drive. For the most part, its had normal maintenance. Only major exspense was a tie rod and strut, for about $650, at about 84,000 miles! The right door lock needs to be replaced, at about $150. Other than that, great car for a single person! Car seat friendly, big back seat. No room for a tall person! Especially in passenger side!! The front seats are very compact. Very exspensive tires!At about $150 a piece Goodyear only lasted about a year, finally went to Kumo at about $120 a piece. Still exspensive. A lot of engine noise, especially on highway when accelerating.

  • Avenger - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    I have had my Avenger for over 6 years now. It is an ES V6 and has been very reliable. I have only had 1 minor problem with it. The only thing that discourages me about this car is the tires. I have had the worst luck with tires splitting on this car. They are also VERY expensive. The turning ratio is horrible, but the car looks good and is fun to drive.

  • Nice looker - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    Overall it is a great car. It looks great and will still turn heads and get commented on. With the ES package, they come loaded. However, I have had alot of problems. Ive put over $2,000 worth of work into it in less than a year and it needs another $500 or so not including routine procedures. The rims and tires are very expensive to replace and a tune-up costs $300+ due to the placement of the sparkplugs. The turning radius is horrible and the rear view is alittle obstructed. I would not drive anything else though.

  • 1997 avenger - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    I used to own one of these, found it annoying to have to own a set of jackstands and floor jack just to change the oil. It was fairly reliable, with the exception of the alternator, but all around it good vehicle, a nice mix of performance and economy. And yes, get your auto transmission filter changed every 15,000 miles.The Automatic used in these are weak and if not maintained on this cycle, can cause some serious headaches. I changed the filter on mine at this interval and had no problems after over 60,000 miles.

  • Mostly Mitsubishi - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    The Mitsubishi V6 has been dissed in these reviews but it is really a great engine. This one wont burn a qt between oil changes and will jump to 6000 rpm quick. The transmission is the weak link since it is made by Dodge. Change the trans fluid VERY often.

  • great car - 1997 Dodge Avenger
    By -

    funnest and nicest lokking car i have ever driven

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