Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops specializing in performance vehicles
Competitors 2003:
Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Honda Civic Si
Vehicle Focus:
High-performance variant of the Dodge Neon, known for its turbocharged engine and sporty handling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical guidance essential for maintaining and repairing the specialized SRT-4 variant, covering performance-specific components.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Turbocharger System, Transmission, Clutch
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS Included), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, ECU/PCM Diagnostics, Body Control Modules
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Glass
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair:
Engine Rebuild Procedures, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Caliper Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues across all major systems
Specifications Data:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Jiggle Valve Specifications, Timing Specifications, Electrical Component Resistances
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission teardowns and rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork repairs.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled
Displacement:
2378 cc (2.4 Liters)
Horsepower Hp:
215 hp @ 5200 RPM
Torque Lb Ft:
245 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 98.0 mm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI), Bosch Fuel Injectors (e.g., 550cc for SRT-4)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Turbocharger Model:
Garrett T3/T4E (likely configuration)
Boost Pressure:
15 psi (approximate)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Gear Ratios Estimated:
1st: 3.00, 2nd: 1.87, 3rd: 1.33, 4th: 0.97, 5th: 0.75, Reverse: 3.33, Final Drive: 4.05 (Typical for SRT-4)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch
Type:
N/A (SRT-4 exclusively manual)
Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (Refer to manual for exact specification)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard (4-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Standard (Traction Control System - TCS)
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Front Supplemental Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional (Side Curtain Airbags not typically available on 2003 SRT-4)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity sound system with subwoofer.
Display:
Digital clock, basic display for audio and climate controls.
ABS And TCS:
Standard as mentioned in safety section.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically standard on 2003 models; aftermarket solutions available.
Air Conditioning:
Standard with manual climate controls.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (severe service); 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months (normal service), consult manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (refer to manual for exact spec and gap).
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (This engine uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Type:
API SN, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (Consult manual for exact Chrysler MS-6395 specification or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Clutch Wear:
Clutches can wear prematurely under aggressive driving or due to specific manufacturing batches.
Turbocharger Reliability:
Can be sensitive to oil contamination or overheating; proper maintenance is crucial.
Oxygen Sensors:
Oxygen sensors (especially pre-catalytic converter) can fail, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Vacuum Leaks:
Vacuum hoses and connections can degrade over time, leading to idle issues and performance problems.
Alternator Failure:
Alternators are known to fail at higher mileage.
Dodge Performance Division:
SRT (Street & Racing Technology) division established to create enthusiast-focused vehicles.
Neon Generation 2:
The SRT-4 was based on the second-generation Dodge Neon (PG/PL platform), introduced for the 2000 model year.
Srt 4 Introduction:
The SRT-4 variant was introduced for the 2003 model year, significantly upgrading the standard Neon with a powerful turbocharged engine and performance-tuned suspension and braking.
Production Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
2003-2005
Road And Track Car Of The Year Contender:
Often cited as a strong performer in its class, competing with more established imports.
Popular Hot Hatch Status:
Gained significant popularity among tuning enthusiasts and the import performance scene.
