2002 Dodge Viper Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2002 model year · 120+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 120+ owner reports, the 2002 Dodge Viper has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is Clutch Slave Cylinder and Hydraulic System Failure with 120 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $800 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 1 Known Issues
On the 1992-2017 Dodge Viper, concentric slave cylinder (CSC) seals fail from heat exposure. Header proximity causes clutch fluid to boil in hydraulic lines, especially under track conditions. Affects all generations. Clutch pedal goes to floor with fluid leak at bellhousing.
Common Symptoms
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Clutch pedal goes to floor
- Fluid leak at bellhousing bottom
- Clutch fluid boiling under track conditions
- Spongy clutch pedal
How to Fix
Replace CSC, clutch master cylinder, and bleed system. Install heat shielding on hydraulic lines for track use. SPEC clutch kits available for upgrade at specclutch.com. Generation-specific parts from viperpartsusa.com.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 120+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipGeneration-specific parts from viperpartsusa.com and moparpartsgiant.com. SPEC clutch kits available at specclutch.com for upgrade
- TipInstall heat shielding on hydraulic lines if tracking the car - header heat is the primary cause of fluid boiling and slave failure
- UpgradeMobil 1 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for differential and transfer case (Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Oil 75W-90)
- UpgradeFel-Pro gasket kit for drivetrain service (Fel-Pro Gasket Kit)