Market Position:
Performance compact sedan targeted at enthusiasts, offering a high-performance experience at an accessible price point.
Value Proposition:
Offers significant cost savings on labor compared to professional repair shops, enabling owners to perform DIY maintenance and repairs.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other performance-oriented compacts like the Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, and Volkswagen GTI, offering comparable power and handling with a distinct American muscle car flavor.
Key Features:
Turbocharged engine, aggressive styling, sport-tuned suspension, strong aftermarket support.
Systems Covered:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle
Engine Control System Detail:
Includes detailed information on the powertrain control module (PCM), sensors (MAP, MAF, O2, knock, crank, cam), actuators (injectors, ignition coils), and turbocharger wastegate/boost control systems.
Chassis Body Detail:
Covers chassis components, structural integrity, body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, and seals.
Suspension Detail:
Detailed instructions for front and rear suspension components, including struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, sway bars, and wheel alignment specifications.
Wiring Diagram Detail:
Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including engine management, lighting, accessories, body electronics, and powertrain control.
Procedures Included:
Maintenance, Repair, Rebuild, Refurbish, Restore, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Tuning
Engine Repair Detail:
Step-by-step overhaul procedures for the 2.4L turbocharged engine, including piston and ring replacement, cylinder head removal/installation, valve train service, crankshaft and bearing service, and turbocharger assembly/disassembly.
Transmission Repair Detail:
Detailed procedures for manual transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including clutch inspection and replacement, gear set servicing, and shifter linkage adjustments.
Brake System Detail:
Procedures for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flushing and bleeding, parking brake adjustment, and ABS system troubleshooting.
Technical Depth:
Complete official factory information, step-by-step guidance for factory-trained technicians, detailed diagnostic and repair procedures, advanced troubleshooting guide
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, and procedures for using diagnostic scan tools.
Engine Type:
2.4L (2429cc) turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4 (4G64-based)
Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5800 rpm (2003), 215 hp @ 5800 rpm (2004-2005)
Torque:
240 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (2003), 245 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (2004-2005)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharger and Intercooler
Engine Management System:
ECU controlled ignition and fuel delivery, turbocharger boost control
Engine Code:
4G64-based (often referred to as the 'Neon SRT-4 engine')
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4-star driver, 5-star passenger (2003-2006 models generally)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable (earlier models)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags (optional or standard depending on year/trim), crumple zones, reinforced safety cage.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Consult manual for exact type and interval.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Timing belt driven engine. Replacement interval typically 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km). Critical to maintain to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 5W-30 is recommended for optimal performance and protection, especially under boost. Refer to manual for API certification and specific viscosity grades.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, 5-Year/100,000 Mile Formula or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual transmission fluid - consult manual for specific GL rating and viscosity (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type, likely ATF+4 or equivalent.
Differentials Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type and capacity for the limited-slip differential.
Known Issues:
Turbocharger seal leaks, clutch wear due to aggressive driving, potential for piston ring land failure under extreme boost if not properly managed, axle issues, occasional electronic gremlins, fuel injector clogging.
Common Upgrades:
Upgraded intercooler, higher-flow fuel injectors, performance exhaust systems, ECU tuning (reflash or piggyback) to manage increased boost and airflow.
