Shopping for a 3rd generation

[AmosHarrison]

I've found a 2005 with 23,000 with 3 owners. Each has religiously changed oil and filter but done no other regularly scheduled maintenance. What risks and likely costs would I face if I buy the car? I've never run a car for 20 years without replacing coolant or brake fluid. They should have also recently changed rear end and transmission oils, but that doesn't bother me as much. What about failing to lube ball joints. The tires are 9 years old, so at least they're not original!

 

[Steve-Indy]

Whatever you decide to do, hold back $10,000.00 to get the car up to road-worthy, peace-of-mind-safe. This includes tires, sensors, fluids and general service, possible window regulator, etc.

Has the vehicle had the airbag module recall done ??

Finally, INSPECT it yourself...and at that age (especially if it ever lived in a snow zone climate) CAREFULLY check the A-arms for cracks do to corrosion at bushings !! Look at the rest of the suspension carefully, including the rubber boots. Check crank damper bolt...as it IS a Viper... let alone the very few early 05's that MAY have the small damper bolt used on the 04's. Be SURE that the positive battery terminal is well insulated to keep it from shorting on metal cover...especially is car ever "bumped" from rear causing a slight but wicked deformation if the cover itself.

Hopefully, others will jump in with their observations...and/or disagreements.

Good hunting !!

 

[99RT10GTS]

Check tire dates, brakes, brake fluid. Expect to change plugs and wires(not easy on a Gen 3). But also look at the Gen 4s too. Really a much better/faster car and more reliable. Gen 3s have had #3 and #8 bearing issues. Selling this 2010:

 

[MoparMap]

I'd keep an eye on the power steering and oil cooler lines as those are known issues for this generation as well. Both has easy enough fixes, but better to catch them early than late.