Market Niche:
Performance compact sedan, targeting the tuner and enthusiast market.
Competitors:
Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (though often positioned below these), Honda Civic Si, Ford Focus SVT.
Performance Focus:
Significantly upgraded engine and suspension compared to standard Neon models, making it a purpose-built performance variant.
Value Proposition:
Offered a potent turbocharged engine and sporty handling at a more accessible price point than many import performance rivals.
Srt Division:
Represents Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division's foray into the compact performance segment.
Engine:
2.4L DOHC Turbocharged (ECC), including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and component testing
Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag/Chrysler T850/NVT-3500), including clutch, linkage, and internal components
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD) system, including axles, CV joints, and differential
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts), Rear independent suspension (multi-link), including components, alignment, and adjustments
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering system
Brakes:
Front and Rear disc brakes, ABS system, including hydraulic components, pads, rotors, and bleeding procedures
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, filter, injectors, fuel pressure regulation, and Turbocharger fuel delivery
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and turbo exhaust components
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, ignition system, lighting, and wiring diagrams
Engine Control Module ECM:
ECU/PCM diagnosis, sensors (MAP, O2, Crankshaft, Camshaft, Knock), actuators, and powertrain control strategies
Body And Trim:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, seats, and body sealing
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, including compressor, refrigerant, and climate controls
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, and ABS system
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components and systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Rebuild:
Component rebuild procedures for specific parts like turbochargers, alternators, starter motors
Diagnosis:
Detailed diagnostic routines for electrical and mechanical systems
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, measurement tolerances, and clearance specifications for all critical components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
4/5 Stars (for 2004 Neon)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
4/5 Stars (for 2004 Neon)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for 2004 Neon)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front seats
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cage
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic oil highly recommended for turbo applications.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (specific performance plugs recommended).
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect at 30,000 miles, change typically recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on usage and fluid type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 synthetic oil is often recommended by SRT specialists for its higher viscosity under heat and turbo protection.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (for automatic transmission, if applicable to other Neon models, but T850 is manual) - Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) specifications for the T850 are critical and require specific GL-4 rated fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Common failure point, leading to engine movement and vibration. Upgraded mounts are a popular aftermarket solution.
Clutch:
Can wear out prematurely with aggressive driving. Clutch pedal springs can also fail.
Turbocharger:
Oil starvation or contamination can lead to premature failure. Proper maintenance and warm-up/cool-down cycles are crucial.
Fuel Injectors:
Can become clogged over time, affecting performance. Regular use of quality fuel and occasional injector cleaner is beneficial.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts are common on higher mileage vehicles.