Segment:
Compact performance sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, DIY mechanics, professional technicians
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (though often a segment above), Honda Civic Si
Unique Selling Proposition:
High-performance turbocharged engine in a compact, affordable package; aggressive styling; strong aftermarket support
Manual Value:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information for owners and technicians, enabling cost-effective upkeep and customization.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system, emission control, turbocharger system, engine diagnostics
Powertrain Systems:
Transmission (manual), clutch, drivetrain components (axles, differentials)
Chassis Systems:
Brakes (ABS), steering, suspension (front and rear), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electronics, audio system, power accessories, infotainment (basic), diagnostic connectors (OBD-II)
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, structural components, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, doors, latches, hinges, safety restraints (airbags)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspection/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component installation, electrical component diagnosis and repair, turbocharger service
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including factory specifications and procedures
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled
Displacement:
2.4 L (2429 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 100.0 mm
Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5800 rpm (2003-2004), 215 hp @ 5800 rpm (2005)
Torque:
240 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (2003-2004), 245 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (2005)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, premium recommended (91 octane or higher)
Turbo Model:
Garrett GT2854R (ball-bearing)
Boost Pressure:
13.0 psi (factory)
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.30, 2nd: 1.95, 3rd: 1.30, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.76)
Final Drive Ratio:
4.22:1
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for SRT-4, base Neon rated 4/5 stars
IIHS Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated for SRT-4, base Neon rated Acceptable
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium audio and subwoofer
Display:
Basic digital display for radio and climate controls
Gauges:
Includes boost gauge, oil pressure gauge (on some trims/models)
OBD Ii Port:
Standard OBD-II diagnostic connector, located under the dashboard on the driver's side
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed, check regularly
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (performance plugs may vary)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (uses timing chain)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, Synthetic recommended (API SN or newer, ILSAC GF-5 or newer)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue or equivalent HOAT
Transmission Fluid Type:
MS-9224 Manual Transmission Fluid (or equivalent GL-4 75W-85)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Clutch wear (especially with hard driving), catalytic converter failure, vacuum leaks, turbocharger issues (oil starvation if maintenance neglected), cracked exhaust manifold, oil pump issues
Maintenance Impact:
Regular oil changes with the correct oil, checking turbocharger oil feed line for obstructions, and proper clutch operation are critical for longevity.
Dodge Performance Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles, including the Charger, Challenger, and Viper, with the SRT (Street and Racing Technology) division focusing on creating high-performance variants of production models.
Neon Generation:
The SRT-4 is based on the second generation (PG) Dodge Neon, which was produced from 2000 to 2005.
Srt Introduction:
The SRT-4 variant was introduced for the 2003 model year, transforming the economy-focused Neon into a serious performance contender.
Production Years:
2003-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
