Ashley A
Enthusiast
Hi All -
I am currently considering purchasing a Generation IV Viper convertible. A Gen III would be my second choice. Either way, if I buy one, I will go for a low-mileage stock example in the best condition I can find. However, I am a seasoned "toy" car owner who has owned more than my share of cars. Everything from Jeeps, to Z's, to corvettes, and an assortment of other stuff. I know you have to be careful with such purchases, or you can be in a world of financial hurt in short order.
My question is this: What is the honest low down on part availability for these cars in 2024? I contacted the local Dodge dealer (I am in South Carolina, BTW), and the service manager said to me, "most parts for those cars are now discontinued. We have one Viper mechanic left, but he will be retiring in the next year or two, and we will not be replacing him". I am not too worried about the mechanic checking out, but I am worried about bespoke parts. I know lots of switches and bits and pieces are parts bin stuff you can get forever because it was also on a Dodge Caravan or something.....but what about the unique stuff?? Are there some parts that are pretty much unobtainable at this point?
I am looking for an honest assessment with a passion for the cars at least somewhat out of the equation. Hit me with the good, bad and whatever else.
Thanks!
I am currently considering purchasing a Generation IV Viper convertible. A Gen III would be my second choice. Either way, if I buy one, I will go for a low-mileage stock example in the best condition I can find. However, I am a seasoned "toy" car owner who has owned more than my share of cars. Everything from Jeeps, to Z's, to corvettes, and an assortment of other stuff. I know you have to be careful with such purchases, or you can be in a world of financial hurt in short order.
My question is this: What is the honest low down on part availability for these cars in 2024? I contacted the local Dodge dealer (I am in South Carolina, BTW), and the service manager said to me, "most parts for those cars are now discontinued. We have one Viper mechanic left, but he will be retiring in the next year or two, and we will not be replacing him". I am not too worried about the mechanic checking out, but I am worried about bespoke parts. I know lots of switches and bits and pieces are parts bin stuff you can get forever because it was also on a Dodge Caravan or something.....but what about the unique stuff?? Are there some parts that are pretty much unobtainable at this point?
I am looking for an honest assessment with a passion for the cars at least somewhat out of the equation. Hit me with the good, bad and whatever else.
Thanks!
