1996 Dodge Avenger
4B3AU42Y5TE344255
Vehicle record for the 1996 Dodge Avenger (VIN 4B3AU42Y5TE344255). Red, coupe, gasoline. Registered in Mykolaiv. 3 NHTSA recall campaigns for this model year. Specifications, registration region and recall data.
Should you buy it? Worth a look — but negotiate
Weighed from safety recalls, known problems and market price.
- 3 recall campaigns exist for this model year. Check this VIN on NHTSA.gov to confirm the repairs were done.
- Owners most often report suspension trouble on this model — inspect it closely.
Full vehicle history report
Everything below is in the paid report for VIN 4B3AU42Y5TE344255, compiled live from NMVTIS and licensed providers the moment you unlock it. Not every vehicle has every record type — the report shows what is on file, and says so when nothing is. The 3 recall campaigns for this model year are shown further down.
📜 Title & ownership
- Title statusClean, salvage, rebuilt, junk, flood or lemon — from the national title database (NMVTIS)🔒
- Title brand historyEvery brand ever applied, by state, with what each one means🔒
- Title & registration recordsHow many times it has been titled, where, and the years-per-owner pace🔒
- Decode consistency checkThe provider's decode cross-checked against ours — a mismatch is a cloned-VIN warning sign🔒
🛞 Odometer
- Odometer timelineEvery reported reading with its date and state, drawn as a timeline🔒
- Rollback checkFlags any reading that goes backwards🔒
- Miles per yearThis car's pace against the US average🔒
💥 Damage, loss & theft
- Total-loss recordsInsurance total-loss declarations, with the reporting insurer type and date🔒
- Salvage & junk-yard recordsSalvage, junk and auction dispositions, including export flags🔒
- Theft screenActive and recovered theft records🔒
- Accident indicatorsDamage events reflected in title data (NMVTIS does not carry police crash reports)🔒
- Flood-exposure checkTitle activity in a disaster area soon after a major flood or hurricane🔒
💰 Liens & value
- Liens, impounds & exportOpen liens with the lender, tow/impound and export records🔒
- Market value for this exact carRetail adjusted for its mileage and state, trade-in, loan value, auction low/avg/high and retail by condition🔒
- DepreciationDrop from original MSRP, yearly rate and a one-year projection🔒
- Sticker vs dealer invoiceWhat it cost new, and what the dealer paid🔒
🧰 Factory warranty & equipment
- Remaining warrantyBasic, powertrain and rust coverage left, estimated from the first title date and odometer🔒
- Standard equipment & coloursWhat this trim came with from the factory, and the colours it was offered in🔒
🚨 Recalls on this VIN
- Per-VIN recall statusWhether each campaign has been repaired on THIS car, remedy availability, do-not-drive and stop-sale flags, dealer labour time🔒
History reports cover US-titled vehicles only. This car is registered in Ukraine, so title, salvage and odometer records from the US national title database (NMVTIS) don't apply to it. The registration record, specifications and recall data on this page cost nothing.
At a glance
Vehicle identity & specifications
🧾 Window sticker / build sheet → All 1996 Dodge Avenger data →
📋 All factory specifications on file8 more fields from the manufacturer's VIN record (NHTSA vPIC)
🏭 Manufacturing & other
Values are as reported by the manufacturer for this VIN pattern; blank or "not applicable" fields are omitted.
MPG & running costs
U.S. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 1996 Dodge Avenger.
Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov. The EPA lists 3 versions of this model year; combined is shown as a range and the other figures are averages. Actual mileage varies with trim and driving conditions.
Crash-test safety ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 1996 Dodge Avenger.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program, tested as the 1996 Dodge Avenger 2-DR.. Ratings can differ by body style and drivetrain.
Estimated 5-year cost to own
A rough guide to what running a 1996 Dodge Avenger costs over five years and 75,000 miles.
How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.
Dimensions & weight
Manufacturer-reported figures for the 1996 Dodge Avenger — ranges cover the 2 body / drivetrain versions on record. Source: Transport Canada vehicle specifications via NHTSA.
Investigations & service bulletins
NHTSA defect investigations 1
LOWER CONTRTOL ARM BALL JOINT Closed
NHTSA #RQ00015 · Suspension · opened Aug 2000 · closed Apr 2001An investigation means NHTSA is examining a possible defect — it is not a recall, and many close without one.
Manufacturer service bulletins 72
Technical notes the manufacturer sent to dealers about known issues and fixes. Useful to mention to a mechanic — they are not recalls and repairs may not be covered. Showing the 10 most recent of 72.
Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
Bulletin 08-049-20 · Electrical System, Equipment · Apr 2020Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
Bulletin 31-003-19 · Equipment · Nov 2019Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
Bulletin 3100519 · Structure · Nov 2019Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
Bulletin 3100619 · Structure, Equipment · Nov 2019Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
Bulletin 3100319 · Structure · Nov 2019Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
Bulletin 31-006-19 · Structure · Nov 2019Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
Bulletin R2118796A · Engine And Engine Cooling · Feb 2016FLASH PROGRAMMING FAILURE RECOVERY. *SLC
Bulletin 1802002 · Jun 2002SUBJECT REGARDING GENERIC SCAN TOOL (GST), PUBLICATION NO. 81-170-00008 PROVIDED WITH THIS TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TO PROVIDE REFERENCE INFORMATION WHEN USING GENERIC SCAN TOOL ON OBDII VEHICLES. *TT
Bulletin 1801201 · Equipment · May 2001SUBJECT REGARDING AIRBAG / CLOCK SPRING SERVICE FOR VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING 2002 MODEL YEAR JEEP LIBERTY. *TT
Bulletin 0801001 · Electrical System · May 2001Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, listed for the AVENGER. Model-year data, not specific to one car.
Canadian recalls 2
Transport Canada recall campaigns for the 1996 Dodge Avenger. Relevant if the car was first sold in, or imported from, Canada.
Steering
On certain vehicles, the lower lateral arm ball joint can separate due to loss of lubrication. There is a potential for moisture to leak past the protective boot which can cause the ball stud to corrode. This corrosion, acting much like contamination, can also lead to premature wear and separation of the ball joint. This could result in loss of vehicle control and a possible cr…
Transport Canada #2001062 · Mar 2001Steering
On certain vehicles, the rubber boot on the lower lateral ball joint could be damaged, allowing the intrusion of dirt and water, leading to extraordinary wear on the ball joint and possible separation. This could result in loss of vehicle control and a possible crash without prior warning. Correction: Lower lateral ball joints will be inspected and if cut or damaged boots are f…
Transport Canada #1999144 · Jul 1999Source: Transport Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database.
About the Dodge Avenger
The Dodge Avenger is a front-wheel drive, mid-sized sedan that was marketed by Dodge. The Avenger made its North American debut in 1994 for the 1995 model year as a coupe that was produced until 2000. The model name was reintroduced to the market as a four-door sedan in 2007 for the 2008 model year. The Dodge Avenger name was used on the South African market Hillman Avengers in 1975 and 1976.
From Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Describes the model line in general, not this model year specifically.
Safety recall campaigns 3
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
CERTAIN AIRTEX FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLIES, P/N E7081H, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE WALL OF THE FLARED FITTING OF THE FUEL PUMP IS NOT THICK ENOUGH TO PREVENT THE MATING THREADED FITTINGS FROM BOTTOMING OUT BEFORE AN ADEQUATE SEAL IS ACHIEVED. THIS CONDITION MAY RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF FUEL AT THE CONNECTION OF THE VEHICLE FUEL LINE AND THE FUEL PUMP MODUL…
Remedy: AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AIRTEX AUTOMOTIVE AT 800-880-3056.
NHTSA Campaign #07E055000 · manufacturer #FP072007-1 · 26/07/2007SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION WERE DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY, DIRT AND WATER CAN INTRUDE. ALSO, MMC HAS ADDED THE POTENTIAL OF LEAKING MOISTURE, WHICH CAN CAUSE THE BALL STUD TO CORRODE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT FOR WEAR. BALL JOINTS THAT EXHIBIT WEAR BEYOND THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEWLY DESIGNED LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS. BALL JOINTS THAT ARE WITHIN THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE CLEANED AND A SPECIAL SEALANT WILL BE APPLIED TO
NHTSA Campaign #00V421002 · manufacturer #967 · 18/12/2000SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION WERE DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY, DIRT AND WATER CAN INTRUDE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE RUBBER BOOTS, AND IF THE BOOT IS DAMAGED, THEY WILL REPLACE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM AND BALL JOINT ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES.
NHTSA Campaign #99V066003 · manufacturer #827 · 05/04/1999Note: recall data comes from the U.S. NHTSA and covers the US-market version of this model. A car registered in Ukraine may have different campaigns — check with the manufacturer's local importer.
These are NHTSA recall campaigns for this model year, last checked 15 Oct 2026. They don't show whether this particular car has had the repair done — check this VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are done at no charge.
We'll email you the moment a new safety recall is issued — no spam, unsubscribe any time.
Common problems & what to inspect
Based on all 197 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 1996 Dodge Avenger, here are the most-reported problem areas — and what to check before you buy.
💥 21 involved a crash 🔥 3 involved a fire 🚑 17 reported injuries
🔍 Listen for clunks over bumps, check the car sits level, and look for uneven tire wear and worn shocks or struts.
🔍 Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.
🔍 Check coolant level and color, look for leaks, and confirm the engine reaches normal temperature without overheating.
🔍 Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
🔍 Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.
🔍 Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
Pre-purchase checklist
- Match the VIN on the dash, door jamb and title — they must be identical.
- Cold-start the engine; listen for knocks and check for blue or white exhaust smoke.
- Test-drive through all gears at low and highway speed — no slipping, shudder or pulling.
- Confirm every warning light clears at startup (none should stay on).
- Check fluids — oil, coolant, transmission — for level, color and leaks.
- Look underneath for rust, fresh undercoating or signs of collision repair.
- Always get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.
Owner complaints 197
Complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of the 1996 Dodge Avenger.
SUSPENSION
I WAS DRIVING AND THE RIGHT FRONT CONTROL LOWERBALL JOINT BROKE. THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED. I CALLED DODGE DEALER.THEY SAID THEY FIX IT ONCE. THEY WON'T DO IT AGAIN. WELL IF THE PROBLEM STILL HAVING THEY NEED TO FIX IT RIGHT. I COULD OF BEEN KILLED. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE ABOUT THIS. NOW I WAS ON THE HWY
NHTSA ODI #10839333ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
MY SON DIED IN DEC 12,2002 IN A 1996 DODGE STEALTH TWO DAYS AFTER HE DIED I RECEIVED THE RECALL NOTICE. CAR LOST CONTROL ON FREEWAY AND WENT OFF ROAD AND ROLLED. HE JUST PUT A TRANSMISSION AND REPLACED CLUTCH, AND PUT IN NEW ENGINE THROUGH TRACY DODGE IN TRACY, CA. *TR
Crash · 1 injured · NHTSA ODI #10212385SUSPENSION
THE LOWER CONTROL ARM ON THE LEFT SIDE IS GOING AND I'VE GONE TO DELUCA CHRYSLER IN HAVERHILL MA TWICE AND BOTH TIMES TOLD ME THAT IT WAS ALREADY SERVICED AND WHEN I ASKED HIM WHAT SIDE WAS SERVICED HE COULDN'T ANSWER ME AND I ASKED HIM IF THEY COULD CHECK MY SINCE IT SHOULD STILL BE COVERED UNDER RECALL WARRANTY HE TOLD ME NO AND JUST TODAY I WAS TOLD THAT …
NHTSA ODI #10209672SUSPENSION
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE AVENGER. IN 2005, WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL AND THE VEHICLE PULLED TO THE RIGHT. SHE DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A DIRT HILL. SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE LOWER BALL JOINTS FAILED. A POLICE R…
Crash · NHTSA ODI #10205038SUSPENSION
I WAS DRIVING OUT OF A FAST FOOD RESTAURANT, AND WITHOUT ANY SIGN OR WARNING MY TIRE SNAPPED OFF MY AXLE! THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT THE LOCAL DODGE DEALERSHIP WAS CLOSED SO I HAD TO HAVE MY CAR TOWED TO ANOTHER PLACE THAT ALSO WORKS ON MY CAR WHENEVER I HAVE PROBLEMS. THE PART THAT NEEDED TO BE FIXED WAS THE "LOWER ARM CONTROL" ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF MY CAR…
NHTSA ODI #10176863SUSPENSION
PER TWO SEPARATE RECALL NOTICE I RECEIVED FROM DAIMLER CHRYSLER, I BROUGHT MY 1996 DODGE AVENGER INTO A DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS INSPECTED AND RESEALED. UPON TAKING IT TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY INSPECTED AND BOTH TIMES THEY TOLD ME NO FURTHER WORK WAS NEEDED. SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FROM DAIMLER CHRYSLER SAY,IF THE BALL JOINTS ARE NO…
NHTSA ODI #10143330ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
RIDING DOWN I 85 MY ENGINE JUST STOPPED DUE TO A TIMING BELT BREAKAGE. *AK
NHTSA ODI #10116760SUSPENSION
DODGE AVENGER 1996, BALL JOINT AND AXLE BROKE. *BF RECALL CAMPAIGN# 99V066003. THIS PROBLEM OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. THE CONSUMER EXPECTS REIMBURSEMENT. *SC THE CONSUMER RECEIVED THE RECALL LETTER IN THE MAIL 1 YEAR LATER. THE CONSUMER WAS DENIED REIMBURSEMENT BECAUSE THE RECEIPT WAS NOT TYPED IT WAS HAND WRITTEN. *JB
NHTSA ODI #10113801+ 189 more complaints on record.
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