🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

2000

Generation:

Second Generation (PL)

Chassis Code:

PL

👋 Introduction

Position:

The Dodge Neon (second generation) was positioned as a compact, affordable, and sporty car in the North American market. It competed against established players like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Chevrolet Cavalier. The Neon aimed to offer a blend of performance, style, and value.

Analysis:

The 2000 Neon, particularly with its revised styling and improved platform, sought to differentiate itself through a more engaging driving experience compared to some competitors. Its availability in coupe and sedan body styles, along with sportier trims like the R/T, appealed to younger buyers and those seeking spirited performance in the compact segment.

Features:

The second-generation Neon featured a more European-influenced design, an independent rear suspension (a significant improvement over the previous generation's torsion beam), and an updated powertrain. Available engines offered competitive horsepower for the class, and the interior was generally considered more refined than its predecessor.

📋 Manual Details

Areas:

Introduction, Lubrication and Maintenance, Suspension, Differential and Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling, Battery, Starting, Charging System, Ignition System, Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Steering, Air Conditioning, Body Electrical, Body and Frame, Heating and Ventilation, Emissions Control, Cruise Control, Instrument Panel, Restraints System, Door Locks, Windows, Seats, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting

Count:

Detailed page count not provided in product information. Factory service manuals for this era typically range from 1000-2500 pages, covering all systems in depth.

Type:

Factory Electronic Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Electronic (likely PDF or similar digital format, potentially viewable via specific software).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine Mechanical (including disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, pistons, rings, bearings, cylinder heads, blocks, crankshafts, camshafts), Engine Performance (fuel injection, ignition timing, sensor diagnostics, idle control, emissions), Cooling System (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan), Lubrication System (oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil pressure), Starting System (starter motor, starter solenoid), Charging System (alternator, voltage regulator, battery), Fuel System (fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control), Exhaust System (manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes), Driveline (transaxle, CV joints, drive axles, differential), Suspension (front and rear suspension components, control arms, ball joints, struts, shocks, springs, sway bars), Steering System (power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column), Brakes (front and rear brakes, calipers, rotors, pads, drums, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, ABS system), Clutch (clutch assembly, pressure plate, release bearing, clutch hydraulic system for manual transmission), Battery (testing, charging, replacement), Air Conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant, diagnostics), Heating and Ventilation (blower motor, heater core, HVAC controls), Body Electrical (lighting, wipers, power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn, dashboard instrumentation, interior lights), Body and Frame (body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, chassis components, mounting points), Restraints System (airbag system components, seat belts, SRS module), Cruise Control, Instrument Panel, Emissions Control

Procedures:

Routine maintenance, fluid level checks, lubrication, filter replacements, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, adjustment procedures, torque specifications, wiring diagram interpretation, electrical system testing, emissions system diagnosis, brake bleeding, clutch bleeding, suspension alignment checks, HVAC system servicing, body panel repair guidelines, safety system checks, specific component testing (e.g., spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, sensors).

Depth:

Comprehensive. This manual covers everything from basic maintenance tasks such as oil changes and tire rotations to complex engine overhauls, transmission repairs, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork. It provides detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded views, diagrams, and specifications necessary for professional-level repair and maintenance.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Electronic. Typically delivered as a PDF or a collection of PDF files, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Searchable text functionality is highly probable for efficient information retrieval.

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation. Designed to be clear and legible when printed, with detailed diagrams and sharp text.

Binding Type:

Not applicable for electronic format. If a physical reproduction were created, it would typically be a professionally bound book (e.g., perfect bound, spiral bound for ease of use).

Paper Type:

Not applicable for electronic format. Original factory manuals often used high-quality, durable paper suitable for a workshop environment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

420A (2.0L SOHC) and later A57 (2.0L DOHC). For the 2000 model year, the primary engine was the 2.0L SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) engine, designated as the Chrysler/Dodge 420A. Some performance variants (like the R/T) could also feature the 2.0L DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) engine.

Horsepower And Torque 2 0L Sohc:

Approximately 132 horsepower @ 6000 RPM and 130 lb-ft of torque @ 4800 RPM.

Horsepower And Torque 2 0L DOHc R T:

Approximately 150 horsepower @ 6000 RPM and 135 lb-ft of torque @ 5000 RPM (for the A57 DOHC engine).

System Type:

Multi-port fuel injection (MPI) with electronic throttle control.

Materials:

Aluminum alloy block and cylinder head.

Drive Mechanism:

Belt-driven overhead camshafts (SOHC and DOHC).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual transmission.

Type:

4-speed automatic transmission.

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check specific manual for precise specs and quantity).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.4 inches (2652 mm) for both coupe and sedan.

Length:

Coupe: ~174.4 inches (4430 mm); Sedan: ~174.9 inches (4443 mm).

Width:

Approximately 67.7 inches (1720 mm) for both body styles.

Height:

Coupe: ~53.4 inches (1356 mm); Sedan: ~55.2 inches (1402 mm).

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 2,600 to 2,800 lbs (1179 to 1270 kg), depending on body style and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 3,600 lbs (1633 kg).

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 90-95 cubic feet.

Trunk Volume Sedan:

Around 13.6 cubic feet.

Trunk Volume Coupe:

Around 10.4 cubic feet.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (for 2000 model year, based on general performance of the generation).

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (for 2000 model year).

IIHS Offset Frontal Crash Test:

Acceptable/Good (depending on specific test year and submodel, the second-gen Neon generally performed reasonably well for its class).

Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - often optional on lower trims, standard on sportier models; Traction Control (optional on some models).

Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags (optional on some trims), three-point seat belts with pretensioners, height-adjustable shoulder belts, rear child seat anchors (LATCH system), crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations (e.g., 4 speakers). Optional premium sound systems may have been available on higher trims.

Features:

Cruise control, tilt steering column. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were not common or available on this model year.

Features:

Limited connectivity features for the era. Primarily focused on audio system integration. Power windows, power locks, and remote keyless entry were available as options.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions (check manual for specific recommendation).

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, using Chrysler OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant (e.g., Mopar HOAT or Zerex G-05).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped spark plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For 2.0L SOHC engines (420A), replacement is recommended every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 7 years. For 2.0L DOHC engines (A57), it's also typically around 100,000 miles. Failure to replace can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil:

API SN or SP, SAE 5W-30 viscosity. Meets Chrysler MS-6395 specification. Capacity: approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler MS-10835 or equivalent power steering fluid.

Common Problems:

Radiator leaks (plastic tanks cracking), AC evaporator leaks (dashboard removal required), suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), occasional engine misfires due to ignition coil or spark plug issues, automatic transmission torque converter shudder, fuel pump failures, power window regulator failures, starter motor failures.

Timing Belt Concern:

The 2.0L SOHC engine is an 'interference' engine, meaning the valves will collide with the pistons if the timing belt breaks, causing severe engine damage. Timely replacement is critical.

Oil Filter:

Mopar MO-090 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH3600, Wix 51522).

Air Filter:

Mopar CA6500 or equivalent (e.g., Fram CA7274, Wix 42287).

📚 Vehicle History

Dgc Context:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later DaimlerChrysler), has a long history of producing vehicles known for their performance and value. The Neon was developed under DaimlerChrysler to be a global car, sharing platforms and engineering with Mitsubishi. It represented a significant shift for Dodge in the compact car segment.

Generation Overview:

The first generation Neon (1994-1999) was known for its aggressive styling and sporty handling but suffered from inconsistent quality. The second generation (PL, 1999-2005) introduced a more rounded, aerodynamic design, improved interior refinement, and a more sophisticated chassis, including independent rear suspension. The 2000 model year was part of this second generation's introduction.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA.

Production Years For Gen2:

1999-2005.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The first generation Neon was notably included in Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1996. While the second generation refined the package, it did not achieve the same specific award recognition in 2000.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Consumer Reports reliability ratings for the Neon, particularly during this period, were often average to below average compared to segment leaders. The manual is crucial for addressing potential issues proactively.

Epa Fuel Economy:

MPG estimates for the 2.0L SOHC with manual transmission were typically around 24 MPG city / 31 MPG highway. Automatic transmission estimates were slightly lower.