Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Mazda Protegé.
Styling:
Distinctive, often polarizing, 'cab-forward' design with rounded styling cues.
Performance Variants:
Available in base models and performance-oriented 'SRT-4' variants (though SRT-4 is typically focused on 2003-2005 for the later generation, this manual covers the entire generation range).
Value Proposition:
Offered competitive pricing and a range of features for its segment.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, specifications for 2.0L SOHC and DOHC engines (Chrysler Neon engine family).
Transmission:
Repair and overhaul for automatic (41TE/42LE) and manual (Getrag NV1500/NV3500) transmissions.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system diagnostics, component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), ABS system troubleshooting.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension component repair (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering system diagnostics and repair (rack and pinion, power steering).
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for lighting, ignition, charging, starting, body control modules, power windows/locks, HVAC controls.
Body:
Body panel alignment, door hardware, interior trim, glass replacement, collision repair guidelines.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, heater core replacement, blower motor diagnostics.
Fuel:
Fuel pump, injectors, filter replacement, fuel system pressure testing, evaporative emissions control (EVAP).
Exhaust:
Exhaust system component replacement, catalytic converter information, muffler service.
Cooling:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications and replacement procedures, cooling fan diagnostics.
Emissions:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) troubleshooting, emission control system components and function.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues, error code interpretation.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Full engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures, including torque specifications.
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete teardown, inspection, and rebuilding of automatic and manual transmissions.
Electrical Repairs:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, module programming/diagnostics (where applicable).
Body Work:
Panel repair, door and window adjustments, interior trim removal and installation.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Code:
ECC/EDZ (2.0L SOHC MPI)
Displacement:
1995 cc (2.0 Liters)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Engine Code DOHc:
ECL (2.0L DOHC MPI)
Horsepower Sohc:
132 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque Sohc:
130 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Horsepower DOHc:
145 hp @ 6000 rpm (standard DOHC)
Torque DOHc:
135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (standard DOHC)
Horsepower Srt4:
200 hp @ 5600 rpm (for SRT-4 variant)
Torque Srt4:
220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (for SRT-4 variant)
Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for performance models)
ECU:
Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM), specific programming for engine/transmission configuration.
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag NV1500/NV3500)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., Chrysler 41TE/42LE)
Automatic Mode:
Adaptive electronic control with torque converter lock-up.
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulic actuation for manual transmissions.
Automatic Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent
Manual Fluid Type:
MS-9070 (or specific manual transmission fluid)
Length:
Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.9 inches (1395 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.1 inches (2644 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700-2900 lbs (1225-1315 kg), varies by trim and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 3700 lbs.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 13.0 cubic feet (sedan)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good (for 2003 model year, specific ratings vary by year and testing methodology)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good (for 2003 model year)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for models tested in this range)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on some base models.
Traction Control:
Optional on select models.
Airbags Front:
Standard driver and front passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional side-impact airbags on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners on front seats.
Audio System:
Optional AM/FM stereo with CD player, premium Infinity sound system available on higher trims.
Display:
Basic analog gauges, central display for odometer and trip computer.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Aux Input:
Not standard, aftermarket solutions often available.
Power Options:
Power windows, power locks, power mirrors available on higher trims.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API SN or later).
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) antifreeze/coolant, color Orange. Or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid OAT).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine:
Head gasket leaks, oil leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, some oil consumption issues.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission solenoid failures, hard shifting, manual transmission clutch wear.
Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, power steering pump leaks.
Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, instrument cluster problems, O2 sensor failures.
HVAC:
Blend door actuator failures, AC compressor issues, heater core leaks.
Manufacturer:
Dodge (a division of Chrysler Corporation, later Chrysler Group LLC)
Generation:
Second Generation Neon (PL platform, though often referred to as JA for this specific generation's development timeline).
Design Changes:
Updated styling, improved interior quality, more refined suspension compared to the first generation.
Production Years:
2000-2005 (for the second generation, this manual specifically covers 2003-2005).
Assembly Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA.