🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Model Years Covered:

1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

Chassis Code:

PL (First Generation)

👋 Introduction

Original Market Niche:

Affordable, compact economy car with a focus on sporty handling and value.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Hyundai Elantra.

Unique Selling Points:

Distinctive aerodynamic styling, multiple engine options (including performance variants), relatively good handling for its class, competitive pricing.

Manual Users:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, technicians seeking detailed repair information.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially Print on Demand

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.0L SOHC/DOHC), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain Components

Chassis:

Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front/Rear Disc/Drum), Wheel Alignment

Electrical:

Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Wiring Diagrams

Body:

Exterior (Body Panels, Doors, Bumpers), Interior (Seats, Trim, HVAC), Doors, Glass, Wipers, Seats

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks/Changes, Belt Inspections/Replacements

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical System Diagnostics

Repair:

Component Removal & Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Reassembly Instructions, Torque Specifications

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I / OBD-II), Scan Tool Procedures, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing

Depth:

Comprehensive: from basic fluid services to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable PDF, Bookmarked Chapters, High-Resolution Scans/Vector Graphics

Print Quality For Digital:

Printable at high resolution for clear diagrams and text.

Binding For Print:

Comb Binding or Spiral Binding (common for workshop manuals for lay-flat use)

Paper Type For Print:

Heavyweight, matte finish paper to resist grease and oil smudges.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

2.0L (1995cc) I4 SOHC (16-valve) - 'SOHC' Engine

Engine Code And Type Performance:

2.0L (1995cc) I4 DOHC (16-valve) - 'DOHC' Engine (Higher Output)

Horsepower Sohc:

Approx. 118 hp @ 5600 RPM

Torque Sohc:

Approx. 134 lb-ft @ 4400 RPM

Horsepower DOHc:

Approx. 150 hp @ 6000 RPM (for ACR/High Output models)

Torque DOHc:

Approx. 140 lb-ft @ 4800 RPM (for ACR/High Output models)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended, higher for DOHC)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Pack

ECU:

Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 283/286 variant)

Automatic Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (Chrysler A500/41TE variant)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic Actuation

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controlled

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-Door Coupe, 4-Door Sedan

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm) for Sedan, 171.2 inches (4348 mm) for Coupe

Overall Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm) for Coupe, 54.7 inches (1390 mm) for Sedan

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg), depending on body style and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by model, typically around 3450-3550 lbs

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100 mm

Standard Tire Size:

185/65R14 (common)

Optional Tire Size:

195/55R15 (sport models)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Varies by year and test, generally considered average for its class and era. Frontal impact ratings available.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard from introduction. Passenger airbag became optional/standard on later models.

Seatbelts:

Front: Three-point height-adjustable. Rear: Lap and shoulder belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player, optional CD Player. Aftermarket upgrades common.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional Air Conditioning (A/C) and Heater controls.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specifics).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type - platinum/iridium recommended).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 90,000 miles or 7 years (critical for interference engines).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API Certified (check manual for specific viscosity under different temperature ranges).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter for 2.0L engine.

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent, consult manual for early spec)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (Chrysler HOAT or equivalent green coolant)

Engine Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (especially earlier models), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil leaks, PCV valve issues, timing belt tensioner wear.

Transmission Common Problems:

Automatic transmission harsh shifts or failure to engage, manual clutch wear, synchro issues in manual transmissions.

Electrical Common Problems:

Window regulator failures, power lock actuators, instrument cluster problems, headlight switch issues, PCM failure, oxygen sensor failure.

Chassis Common Problems:

Suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), brake wear, exhaust system rust/leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, known for its performance-oriented vehicles and mainstream market presence.

Generation:

First Generation (PL Body) - Introduced in 1994 as a radical redesign for Dodge's compact offering.

Key Variants:

Base, ES (European Sport), ACR (American Club Racer), R/T (Road/Track).

Production Period For This Manual:

1994-1999

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The first-generation Neon was generally praised for its styling, European-influenced ride and handling, and affordable price point, although reliability was sometimes questioned compared to Japanese competitors.

Industry Awards:

Named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list in 1996.