Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting
Transmission:
Manual transmission (all gears, synchronizers, bearings), Automatic transmission (torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, clutches, bands, internal seals)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, drive axles, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), Rear suspension (towing arms, shocks, springs, bushings), wheel alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack/gearbox
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc, depending on trim), ABS system, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition switch, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), horn
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, dashboard, climate control system
Heating Ventilation Ac:
HVAC components, refrigerant system, heater core, blower motor, AC compressor, controls
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting charts and procedures
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections and replacements, tune-ups
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, exhaust system repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and torque specifications
Length:
Approx. 160.5 inches (4077 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.2 inches (1351 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 97.2 inches (2469 mm)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 2450 lbs (1111 kg) (coupe, manual)
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 2750 lbs (1247 kg) (sedan, automatic)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult owner's manual
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 13.0 cu ft (sedan), 11.0 cu ft (coupe)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic oil, or 3,000 miles (4,800 km) with conventional oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs, consult manual for specific type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years (critical component, failure can cause severe engine damage)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified, ILSAC GF-2 or later)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent)
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule)
Common Problem 2:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially on early 2.0L engines due to cooling system design)
Common Problem 3:
Rear main seal leaks
Common Problem 4:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure
Common Problem 5:
Strut mount and bearing wear
Dodge History Context:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), aimed to offer a more value-oriented and performance-oriented option in the subcompact segment with the Neon.
First Generation:
The Dodge Neon was introduced for the 1995 model year, as part of Chrysler's Patform PL. The 1998 model year represents the first generation, with some updates over earlier models.
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Toluca, Mexico
Production Span First Gen:
1995-1999
