Segment:
Compact Performance Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking to maintain and repair their Dodge Neon SRT-4, DIY mechanics, performance tuners.
Key Competitors:
Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen GTI, Ford Focus SVT
Performance Focus:
This manual is specifically tailored for the high-performance SRT-4 variant, addressing its unique turbocharged engine and sport-tuned components.
Completeness:
Offers a holistic approach to vehicle care, encompassing mechanical, electrical, and diagnostic aspects.
Ease Of Use:
Designed with easy-to-follow instructions and clear diagrams for accessibility by a wide range of skill levels.
Engine Mechanical:
Full rebuild and repair procedures for the 2.4L Turbocharged I4 (World Engine)
Engine Management:
Fuel system, ignition system, emission controls, engine diagnostics, and tuning
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (A850), clutch, gearshift linkage, and sub-transmission (if applicable)
Drivetrain:
Front wheel drive components, half-shafts, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, steering components
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, including ABS, parking brake, and component replacement
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, electric starter, switches, lighting, and body electronics
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, interior trim, and structural components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and diagnostic procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head repair, piston and cylinder work, crankshaft and primary shaft servicing
Transmission Repair:
Manual transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, linkage adjustments
Suspension And Steering:
Component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods), alignment procedures
Brake Service:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake bleeding, ABS component testing
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness repair, switch testing, component diagnostics, battery/charging system troubleshooting
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant flush and refill
Fuel System Service:
Fuel pump replacement, injector cleaning/replacement, fuel filter servicing
Exhaust System:
Component replacement and repair
Coverage Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and procedures, including information relevant to the SRT-4's performance tuning.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Step-by-step diagrams for a wide range of repair and maintenance procedures.
Electrical Diagrams:
Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Engine Code:
PT Cruiser Turbo (GEMA based)
Engine Type:
DOHC Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2378 cc)
Aspiration:
Turbocharged and Intercooled
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 99.3 mm
Horsepower:
215-230 hp (depending on year)
Torque:
245-250 lb-ft (depending on year)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent HOAT coolant
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Typically 4-star (driver) and 5-star (passenger) for frontal impacts in similar Chrysler/Dodge models of the era.
IIHS Crash Test Results:
Refer to IIHS archives for specific model year testing results; likely received 'Good' or 'Acceptable' ratings in key areas.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Often included, particularly on performance models.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags (optional or standard depending on trim/year).
Seat Belts:
3-point active seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic recommended for turbo).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000-60,000 miles (consult manual for specific type and interval).
Timing Belt Replacement:
This engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring less frequent but still necessary inspection/maintenance.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per manual, especially under heavy use.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 or equivalent power steering fluid.
Common Problems:
Turbocharger issues (oil leaks, wastegate rattle), clutch wear, intake manifold gasket leaks, O2 sensor failures, and occasional electrical gremlins are reported.
Turbocharger Care:
Importance of allowing turbo to spool down before shutting off the engine, using high-quality synthetic oil is crucial for longevity.
Dodge Performance:
Dodge has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles, and the SRT-4 was a significant entrant in the tuner car segment.
Neon Generations:
The SRT-4 is part of the second generation (PG) Neon, which saw significant performance upgrades and styling changes compared to the first generation.
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
2003-2005 (for the second-gen Neon, with SRT-4 specifically from 2004-2005 for Neon nameplate; subsequent 'SRT-4' designation continued on Caliber platform)
