Positioning:
High-performance compact sedan positioned as an affordable tuner car with significant aftermarket support.
Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart/Evolution, Subaru WRX, Ford Focus SVT, Mazdaspeed Protege.
Performance Focus:
Turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, aggressive styling, driver-oriented interior.
Value Proposition:
Offers significant horsepower and torque for its price point, making it attractive to enthusiasts.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnosis, sensor data, fuel injection control, ignition timing
Forced Induction:
Turbocharger operation, wastegate control, boost pressure regulation, intercooler system
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank and lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan clutch, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, O2 sensors
Manual Transmission:
Getrag MT-285 clutch, gearbox components, shift linkage, fluid specifications
Suspension Components:
Struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, sway bars
Power Steering:
Pump, rack and pinion, fluid types and bleeding procedures
Brake System Hydraulic:
Master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, ABS components
Parking Brake:
Mechanism and adjustment
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb types
Instrument Panel:
Gauges, warning lights, driver information center
Body Control Module:
Central locking, power windows, wipers, horn
Airbag System:
SRS components, diagnostic procedures, safety precautions
Climate Control:
A/C system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant types
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid flushes
Engine Repair:
Head gasket replacement, piston and ring service, timing belt/chain (if applicable), component rebuilds
Transmission Overhaul:
Disassembly, inspection, reassembly of gearbox
Brake System Service:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, component diagnostics
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting circuits, testing sensors, diagnosing modules
Body Panel Replacement:
Door, fender, hood, bumper removal and installation
Suspension Alignment:
Adjustment procedures for caster, camber, and toe
Turbocharger Diagnostics And Repair:
Turbocharger system checks, common failure points, seal replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Symptom-based diagnostic trees for various vehicle issues
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system repairs.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 out of 5 stars (driver and passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (2003-2004 models, rating improved in later years).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional (limited availability)
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners
Body Structure:
High-strength steel safety cage construction
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SM or SN rated)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) - Pink color, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) is also sometimes specified as a compatible alternative.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration and noise.
Clutch Wear:
Clutches can wear prematurely, especially with aggressive driving.
Fuel Injectors:
Clogged or failing fuel injectors can cause misfires and performance issues.
Turbocharger Seals:
Turbocharger seals can leak oil over time, leading to blue smoke.
Rear Axle Bearings:
Rear axle bearings can develop noise and wear.
Oxygen Sensors:
Oxygen sensors can fail, leading to poor fuel economy and CEL (Check Engine Light).
Dodge Performance Division:
SRT (Street and Racing Technology) division created to develop specialized performance vehicles.
Neon Development:
Second generation (PL2) Neon was a significant redesign from the original.
Srt-4 Introduction:
Introduced for the 2003 model year as the high-performance variant of the Neon, targeting the tuner market.
Updates 2004:
Minor revisions, including a revised hood and grille, and potentially updated ECU calibration.
Updates 2005:
Further refinements, often including updated turbocharger, intercooler, and ECU tuning for increased power and drivability. Introduction of optional Recaro seats.
Production Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
2003-2005