Market Segment:
Compact car, economy segment
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, small families
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra
Vehicle Philosophy:
Affordable transportation with a focus on practicality and fuel efficiency, offering a surprising amount of interior space for its class.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with detailed, manufacturer-authorized information to maintain and repair their Chrysler Neon effectively and affordably.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (including disassembly, inspection, assembly), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine electrical (starters, alternators), engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission Systems:
Manual and Automatic Transmission (ATX) diagnostics, repair, overhaul, clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, transmission control modules (TCM).
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (power steering, steering column), brakes (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), wheels, tires.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power distribution, body control modules (BCM), interior/exterior lighting, power accessories (windows, locks), audio system, HVAC controls, charging system, starting system.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, doors, windows, seats, roof, structural components, body repair, corrosion protection.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor inspection and replacement, battery maintenance, belt inspections.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for various symptoms (e.g., no-start, poor performance, unusual noises), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, testing of electrical components and sensors.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems. Includes detailed torque specifications and clearances.
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions, including part specifications and clearances.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repairs.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on required specialized tools and diagnostic equipment (e.g., scan tools, multimeters) and their usage.
Engine Code:
420A (2.0L SOHC I4), FOMOCO 2.0L SPI (less common)
Displacement:
1996 cc (2.0 Liters)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 83.0 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1 (typical for 420A)
Horsepower:
132 hp @ 5600 rpm (typical for 420A)
Torque:
130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (typical for 420A)
Redline:
6000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
13.2 gallons (49.9 L)
Engine Management:
Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack configuration.
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (ATX)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (check manual for specific part number like Mopar MS-9224).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (Mopar part number 05013457AA or equivalent)
Gear Ratios:
Varies by transmission type and model year; manual and automatic gear ratios detailed within the manual.
Wheelbase:
104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Overall Length:
174.4 inches (4430 mm)
Overall Width:
67.4 inches (1712 mm)
Overall Height:
55.0 inches (1397 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 90-95 cubic feet
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 15-16 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
2600-2800 lbs (approximate, depending on trim and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's VIN plate for specific GVWR
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4 x 100mm
Standard Tire Size:
185/65R14 (common), 195/55R15 (optional/sport trims)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (for 2000-2001 models, check specific year reports)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (for 2000-2001 models, check specific year reports)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, check specific reports)
ABS:
Available (Anti-lock Braking System) on higher trims or as an option.
Traction Control:
Rarely available, typically not standard.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard; optional side airbags available on some trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point seatbelts for rear occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - copper vs. platinum/iridium, check manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API certified, SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended. Mopar part number 05080850AA (5W-30).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change (for 2.0L engine).
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically green color. Mopar part number 04549618AA (50/50 mix).
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket, intake manifold gasket leaks, radiator hose failures, potential for head gasket issues if overheated.
Common Problems Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoid failures, clutch wear (manual), occasional issues with gear synchros (manual).
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, power steering pump leaks, occasional noisy wheel bearings.
Common Problems Electrical:
Faulty window regulators, power lock actuators, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, instrument cluster illumination issues.
Common Problems Body:
Rust in wheel wells and rocker panels (depending on climate), interior trim rattles, door latch mechanism issues.
Manufacturer:
Chrysler (part of DaimlerChrysler AG during this period)
Generation Introduction:
Second generation Neon introduced for the 1995 model year, with significant styling and engineering updates for 1999.
Updates For 2000-2001:
The 2000-2001 models represent the latter part of the second generation, incorporating minor refinements and potentially new trim packages.
Production Plants:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production Years For Generation:
1995-2005 (though the 2000-2001 model year is the focus of this manual).
Automotive Journal Awards:
While not a recipient of major recurring awards, the Neon was noted for its value and surprisingly good handling for its price point during its production run.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied by model year, often reflecting average to below-average reliability in specific areas, particularly in earlier generations. This manual helps address these.
Manual Certification:
Factory authorized service information, representing the official procedures and specifications from the manufacturer.