🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

1997

Platform:

PL (Chrysler/Mitsubishi)

Chassis Code:

P2

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Car

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on affordability, sporty styling, and agile handling, often with a European-influenced design aesthetic.

Target Demographic:

Younger buyers, first-time car owners, budget-conscious consumers.

Intended User:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners seeking to understand and maintain their vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair for all systems of the 1997 Dodge Neon.

Part Identification:

Features a complete list of parts and pictures for identification and replacement.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely over 1000 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era), though not explicitly stated.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, starting, charging, ignition, engine control systems.

Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch, transaxle (manual and automatic), differential, driveshafts, CV joints.

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear, ABS if equipped), wheels, tires.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, starting, charging, ignition, instrument panel, audio system, horn, vehicle speed control, turn signals, flashers, windshield wipers/washers, lamps, restraint system (airbags), power door locks, power windows, power mirrors, chime warning systems.

Body Systems:

Frame, bumpers, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), emission control systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Lubrication schedules, fluid level checks, filter replacements, belt inspections/replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly/reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, HVAC system service.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine control and other systems, symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagram interpretation.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing major components such as engine, transmission, alternator, starter, water pump, radiator, clutch, brake calipers, master cylinder, shocks, struts, power steering pump, AC compressor, etc.

Diagnostic Tools Mention:

References to diagnostic scan tools and procedures for accessing engine control module (ECM) data and trouble codes.

Depth Of Coverage:

Extensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and component replacements to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds, and electrical system diagnostics.

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Includes detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, essential for diagnosing electrical faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Printable Pages:

All pages are printable, allowing users to create physical copies for workshop use.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for potential archive extraction).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

GFA (for the 2.0L SOHC engine)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1996 cc)

Horsepower:

Approx. 118-132 hp (depending on specific engine variant and state of tune).

Torque:

Approx. 124-130 lb-ft.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-port injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil packs for each spark plug (or a single coil with distributor on some early models/variants).

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), O2 sensors, PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Opt:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry-plate clutch (for manual transmission).

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronically controlled automatic transmission (ECAT) on some models.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2600 - 2800 lbs (depending on body style and options).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1997:

Frontal crash test ratings typically ranged from 'Acceptable' to 'Good' in NHTSA tests of the era, though specific model year data varies. Side impact ratings were generally lower.

Brake Assist ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited connectivity by modern standards. No Bluetooth or integrated smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Check level periodically. Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving conditions.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH certified, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended. Check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Dodge Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT - Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent Mopar coolant. Typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mopar ATF+3 (or equivalent specification). Do not use ATF+4 unless specifically stated in later manuals.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Head gasket failures (particularly on early 2.0L engines), valve seat recession, oil leaks (crankshaft seals, valve cover gasket), HVAC blower motor issues, front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), AC system leaks, occasional transmission issues (especially automatic).

Engine Management Issues:

Oxygen sensor failures, EGR valve issues, idle air control (IAC) valve problems leading to rough idle or stalling.

Electrical Quirks:

Intermittent electrical issues, power window/lock failures, dashboard warning light illumination can be common as the vehicle ages.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Positioning:

Dodge positioned the Neon as an affordable, sporty, and stylish compact car with a focus on value for money.

Neon First Generation:

The first generation Dodge Neon (PY) was introduced for the 1995 model year. The 1997 model represents a mid-cycle refresh or continuation of the initial design with minor updates.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere Assembly Plant, Belvidere, Illinois, USA.

Production Years:

First Generation: 1995-1999.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Dodge Neon was notably included on Car and Driver's '10Best' list for 1997, recognizing its value, handling, and sporty character.