Segment:
Compact Car / Economy Car
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier
Design Philosophy:
Affordable, fuel-efficient, sporty handling (especially ACR models)
Platform Sharing:
Chrysler JA platform (shared with Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Stratus, Plymouth Breeze)
Covered Models:
All 1998 Dodge Neon models (including Highline, SE, ES, ACR)
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, based on description)
Engine:
Engine overhaul, diagnosis, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, performance tuning
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, CV joints, drive axles, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering gear
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, body repair, corrosion prevention
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system service and repair
Restraint Systems:
Airbags, seat belts (service and safety precautions)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Rebuild:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Restoration:
Guidance for refurbishing and restoring components and appearance
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics
Engine Code:
2.0L SOHC I4 (420A)
Engine Displacement:
1996 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
87.6 mm x 83.0 mm
Horsepower Hp:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Lb Ft:
130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Engine Code:
2.0L DOHC I4 (AGS - ACR Model)
Engine Displacement:
1996 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Hp:
143 hp @ 6200 rpm (ACR)
Torque Lb Ft:
139 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (ACR)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 octane recommended)
ECU Type:
Proprietary Chrysler Electronic Control Module (ECM)
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag/Chrysler NV)
Type:
3-Speed Automatic (Chrysler 30/31TH)
Automatic Modes:
Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Second Gear Lock
Manual Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 (Mopar Part # 05010825AA) or equivalent Dexron III
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
N/A (1998 standards)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
N/A (1998 standards)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
Front: Three-point with pretensioners. Rear: Lap and shoulder belts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (severe use: 3,000-5,000 miles)
Engine Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter:
Not typically equipped on 1998 models
Spark Plugs:
Every 100,000 miles (platinum plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 60,000 miles. Manual: Inspect at 60,000 miles, change as needed.
Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000 miles or 5 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API Service SG or higher (Mopar Part # 05010028AA)
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5/100 (Chrysler-specific orange coolant) or equivalent HOAT
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent ATF+3/Dexron III)
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to vibration.
Suspension Components:
Front control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear prematurely.
Power Window Motors:
Known for failing, especially in warmer climates.
Ac Compressor Clutch:
Can fail, requiring replacement of the clutch or the entire compressor.
Radiator And Hoses:
Plastic end tanks on radiators can crack; hoses can become brittle.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket can leak over time.
Timing Belt:
SOHC 420A uses a timing belt; replacement is crucial at recommended intervals (typically 60,000-90,000 miles) to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, known for performance and value in American automotive market.
First Generation Start:
1995
Second Generation Start:
2000
1998 Updates:
Minor cosmetic and feature updates, potential minor drivetrain revisions.
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Span:
1995-2005
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list in 1997 and 1998.
Automotive Journalist Reviews:
Praised for its agile handling, sporty chassis, and affordable price point, particularly the ACR model.
