Market Position:
Compact car offering affordability and practicality, targeting a wide range of consumers seeking an economical daily driver.
Pricing Strategy:
Positioned as an affordable entry-level vehicle with a competitive price point for its segment.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, and Chevrolet Cavalier. The Neon offered a distinctive American take on the compact segment with unique styling and a focus on a spirited driving experience, especially with its multi-link front suspension.
Key Features:
Distinctive 'cab-forward' design, available in coupe and sedan body styles, emphasis on interior space and cargo flexibility for its class, a reputation for sporty handling and a relatively powerful engine for its segment.
Styling:
The 'cab-forward' design emphasized maximizing interior space by pushing the wheels to the corners and the passenger compartment forward.
Coverage Areas:
All Styles Covered, General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioner, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle.
Page Count:
Hundreds of Pages (Specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive).
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine (including fuel injection, cooling, emissions, engine control), Transmission, Brakes, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), Suspension, Steering, Chassis, Body, Interior, HVAC, Restraint System, Drivetrain (Differential/Drive, Axle).
Body And Chassis:
Includes details on structural components, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, and chassis systems for repair and maintenance.
Instrumentation And Controls:
Covers dashboard layout, gauges, switches, and interior controls.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
Detailed procedures for HVAC system diagnostics, repair, and refrigerant handling.
Procedures Included:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Step-by-step Repair Procedures, Disassembly and Reassembly, Diagnostics, Lubrication, Electrical System Repair, Fuel System Service, Emission Control System Service.
Lubrication Schedule:
Details periodic lubrication points and recommended lubricants for various vehicle components.
Engine Rebuild:
Comprehensive engine overhaul procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics. Covers complete disassembly and detailed repair procedures.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes troubleshooting charts and diagnostic procedures for common problems, especially within the electrical and engine management systems.
Compatibility:
Compatible with all PC based Windows operating systems and Mac.
Print Quality:
Printable without restriction, allowing for full or partial printing.
Printability:
Printable pages allow users to create physical copies of sections or the entire manual.
Binding Type:
Digital Download (Printable PDF)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Delivery Method:
Instant download link on checkout page after payment.
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
Primary Engine:
2.0L SOHC 16-valve I4 (Chrysler ECE Engine)
Horsepower:
Approx. 132 hp @ 6000 rpm (for SOHC)
Torque:
Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (for SOHC)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 83.0 mm (for 2.0L)
Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Codes:
420A (SOHC), DOHC variant also available but less common in standard models.
Engine Orientation:
Inline 4-cylinder
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (for automatic) / Gear oil (for manual, specification varies by manufacturer of the gearbox)
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for both manual and automatic transmissions.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Length:
Approx. 174.6 inches (4435 mm) (Sedan), Approx. 166.4 inches (4227 mm) (Coupe)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.5 inches (1359 mm) (Coupe), Approx. 54.8 inches (1392 mm) (Sedan)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 98.1 cubic feet (2778 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2650 - 2800 lbs (1202 - 1270 kg), depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Information available in manual for specific models.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 1997 model)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 1997 model)
Ii Hs Front Driver:
Good (for 1997 model)
Ii Hs Front Passenger:
Good (for 1997 model)
Active Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear crumple zones.
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, manual climate controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on active safety features like ABS (optional) and passive safety like airbags.
Connectivity Features:
None (pre-dating widespread mobile integration).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 is commonly recommended for most conditions. Consult manual for exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+3 or equivalent
Known Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially with early models or if overheated), cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), premature wear of suspension components (bushings, ball joints), occasional starter issues, potential for intake manifold gasket leaks.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Required for 2.0L DOHC engine (if equipped), typically at 90,000-100,000 mile intervals. The SOHC engine uses a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free.
Idle Air Control Valve:
Common issue causing rough idle or stalling.
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles from mainstream sedans to luxury cars and minivans.
Model Evolution:
The Neon was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Shadow and Plymouth Sundance. It was part of Chrysler's new 'PL' platform and represented a significant styling and engineering departure for the company's compact offerings.
Platform:
PL platform, shared with other Chrysler Corporation vehicles of the era.
Production Years:
1995-2005 (First Generation: 1995-1999, Second Generation: 2000-2005)
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
