Target Demographic:
Economy-minded buyers, young drivers, small families.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Volkswagen Golf.
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design, sporty styling, driver-focused interior.
Notable Variants:
Base, Highline, Sport, ACR (American Club Racer).
Manual Value:
Essential for DIY mechanics and enthusiasts looking to maintain, repair, and understand their Dodge Neon.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing belt replacement, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, lubrication system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission controls, engine diagnostics, sensor testing, ECU operation.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, clutch system, shifter linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, hydraulic system, torque converter, shift control.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, tie rods), alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, steering linkage.
Electrical System:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power distribution.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, controls.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, structural repair basics.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt mechanisms, pre-tensioners.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-up procedures, brake inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause identification, common fault finding.
Component Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for removing, repairing, and reinstalling major and minor automotive components.
Diagnostic Procedures:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) code retrieval and interpretation, sensor data analysis, component testing.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Code:
SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) and DOHC (Double Overhead Cam) variants
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1996 cc)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
87.6 mm x 83.0 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
9.6:1 (SOHC), 10.0:1 (DOHC)
Horsepower Sohc:
118 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Sohc:
124 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower DOHc:
145 hp @ 6400 rpm (standard), 150 hp @ 6400 rpm (ACR)
Torque DOHc:
135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (standard), 135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (ACR)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles or 7 years (check manual for specifics)
Body Styles:
2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback
Length:
Approx. 160-162 inches (depending on body style)
Height:
Approx. 53-54 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104 inches
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,600 - 2,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult manual
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil recommended).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles (if equipped).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years (depending on coolant type and vehicle condition).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (with filter) for 2.0L engine
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Gold) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Problems:
Timing belt failures (critical to replace on schedule), intake manifold gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, power steering pump noise, AC compressor failures, window regulator issues, door lock actuator problems, rust on subframes.
