🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

PG

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, franchise dealerships.

Competitors 1997:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.

Design Philosophy:

Affordable, fuel-efficient, sporty styling (especially the coupe), European-inspired chassis (Chrysler's second-generation LH platform basis).

Manual Advantage:

Authentic factory data, often more comprehensive than aftermarket manuals, essential for accurate diagnosis and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

North America

Trim Levels Covered:

All (e.g., Base, SE, ES, ACR)

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (ZIP archive, likely containing PDF or scanned images)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging system.

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (Getrag), automatic transmission (41TE/42LE), drive axles, clutch, differentials.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (disc and drum, ABS components).

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control modules, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, engine control module (ECM/PCM) diagnostics and pinpoint tests.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, bumpers, sheet metal repair, glass replacement, weatherstripping.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and flushes, belt and hose inspection/replacement, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), specific component testing procedures, electrical system troubleshooting with pinpoint tests.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair/replacement.

Installation:

Component replacement procedures, calibration procedures, alignment specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, detailed diagnostics, component-level repair, and complete assembly/disassembly of all major systems.

Detail Level:

Step-by-step instructions with detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and special tool requirements.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

ZIP (contains scanned or digital pages, often PDF or image files)

Readability:

High (assumed for factory manuals, crucial for diagrams and text clarity)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

SOHC (1.8L), DOHC (2.0L)

Displacement:

1.8L (1806 cc) and 2.0L (1996 cc)

Cylinder Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder

Valvetrain:

SOHC (16-valve) and DOHC (16-valve)

Horsepower 1.8L:

116 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 1.8L:

133 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Horsepower 2.0L Sohc:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2.0L Sohc:

130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Horsepower 2.0L DOHc (Acr):

145 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque 2.0L DOHc (Acr):

135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Engine Control Module:

Chrysler PTEC (Powertrain Electronic Control) system

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (Getrag F23 or similar)

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (Chrysler 41TE/42LE)

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door coupe, 4-door sedan

Curb Weight Approx:

2600-2800 lbs (depending on body style and equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:

3700-3900 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3-star (typical for this era)

ABS:

Optional on most models, standard on some higher trims or with specific engine/transmission combinations.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts, driver-side pretensioner.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player standard, optional CD player.

Speakers:

4 or 6 speaker systems depending on trim.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

None:

Limited to basic analog systems of the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type: standard copper, platinum, or iridium).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8L) with filter

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Engine Performance:

Head gasket failures (particularly on early 2.0L DOHC engines), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil leaks, ignition coil failures.

Electrical:

Window motor failures, power lock actuator issues, instrument cluster problems (gauges flickering/dying), PCM/ECM connector corrosion.

Suspension Steering:

Premature wear of ball joints and tie rod ends, strut mount issues, power steering pump leaks.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission solenoid failures, manual transmission clutch wear.

HVAC:

Blend door actuator failures, AC compressor clutch issues, evaporator core leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Chrysler Corporation's attempt to compete in the global compact car market with a more stylish and engaging product.

Generation Start Year:

1995

Generation End Year:

1999

Manufacturing Plant:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA

Production Years:

1995-2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list in 1995 and 1996.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Mixed to below average for this generation, highlighting specific known issues.