Positioning:
Entry-level compact car positioned as an affordable, fuel-efficient option with sporty handling characteristics.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.
Design:
Cab-forward design, unique styling, praised for handling and ride quality for its class.
Performance Variants:
Offered high-performance variants like the ACR (American Club Racer) and RT/SRT with enhanced engines and suspension.
Usefulness:
Essential for owners and independent repair shops to maintain and repair the 1997 Dodge Neon, covering all factory specifications and procedures.
Engine Coverage:
2.0L SOHC (132 hp), 2.0L DOHC 'RT/SRT' (150 hp)
Transmission Coverage:
3-speed Automatic (A413/30), 5-speed Manual (NVG500/T350)
Trim Level Coverage:
All US and Canadian market trims including base, Sport, ES, ACR, RT
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 2000+ pages (combined electronic content)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital format with searchable interface)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems.
Engine Performance:
Engine diagnostics, ignition system, emissions control, fuel injection (MPI) system, performance tuning.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, clutch system, drive axles.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic controls.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped) diagnostics and repair.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion assembly, tie rods, universal joints.
Electrical System:
12V battery, alternator, starter, ignition, lighting system, charging system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
Chassis And Frame:
Frame construction, subframes, body mounting, structural components.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, HVAC, and mechanical issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems.
Overhaul Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls, including component specifications and tolerances.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics (generic codes), specific Chrysler diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits, including lighting, ignition, power distribution, and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Specifies required diagnostic tools, specialized tools, and torque specifications.
Specifications:
Detailed torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and wear tolerances for all components.
Engine Displacement Sohc:
2.0 Liters (1996 cc)
Engine Configuration Sohc:
Inline 4-cylinder
Engine Valvetrain Sohc:
SOHC (Single Overhead Cam), 16 valves
Engine Horsepower Sohc:
132 hp @ 5600 rpm
Engine Torque Sohc:
124 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine Code DOHc:
DOHC (Optional, for RT/SRT trims)
Engine Displacement DOHc:
2.0 Liters (1996 cc)
Engine Valvetrain DOHc:
DOHC (Double Overhead Cam), 16 valves, Chrysler designed (also known as 'Motorsport' or later Neon SRT-4 base)
Engine Horsepower DOHc:
150 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine Torque DOHc:
130 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
31-38 PSI (unleaded fuel)
ECU Type:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
Standard Transmission:
Getrag NVG500 (also referred to as T350) 5-speed manual
Optional Transmission:
Chrysler A413 (also referred to as 30) 3-speed automatic
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF+3 (Chrysler specification)
Final Drive Ratio Manual:
3.77:1 (420A engine)
Final Drive Ratio Automatic:
3.94:1 (420A engine)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for extended intervals).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard copper plugs), 100,000 miles (platinum plugs if applicable).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with filter change (420A engine)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology, typically pink or orange for this era, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Engine Mounts:
Can wear out prematurely, leading to vibration and clunking noises.
Radiator And Hoses:
Plastic end tanks on radiators can become brittle and crack; coolant hoses can degrade over time.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion in connectors, particularly around grounds and headlights, can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can be prone to premature wear, causing humming or grinding noises.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Faulty purge valves or vent solenoids can cause check engine lights and fuel system issues.