NHTSA investigates Dodge Viper suspension problem
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it is investigating a rear suspension problem with the Dodge Viper that could cause the car to lose control.
The NHTSA disclosed the investigation on Tuesday but has not issued a recall. The probe covers about 2,500 of the high-end sports cars from the 2005 and 2006 model years.
The agency said it has received has two complaints in connection with the problem, including one from a doctor from Arkansas who said the failure sent his car into a slide and then up an embankment, causing it to go airborne before landing in the woods.
The doctor, who was not identified in the complaint, suffered back injuries in the crash. A mechanic who inspected the car concluded that the right steering knuckle had separated from the wheel, causing the crash, according to the complaint.
A second complaint, also filed in December, identified the same suspension part as the cause of a collision with a concrete divider.
Chrysler said it is cooperating in the investigation and that the Viper meets all federal safety standards. Spokesman Eric Mayne said any Viper owners with concerns should contact a dealer.
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