Segment:
Compact car, affordable segment.
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, small families, performance enthusiasts (performance variants).
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordable pricing, stylish exterior design (for its time), surprisingly spacious interior, agile handling, sporty variants (GT, ACR).
Manual Advantage:
Officially licensed software offers accurate, manufacturer-backed repair information, crucial for proper maintenance and avoiding costly mistakes.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 1996 Dodge Neon.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1000+ pages (typical for full service manuals, software may vary).
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital format).
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Type 131), automatic transmission (Hydra-Matic 31-34, A500/A550).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear drum/disc options).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, body electrical, power accessories.
Body:
Body and frame construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seating.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I systems.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair.
Installation Procedures:
Component replacement, accessory installation (where applicable).
Depth:
Detailed, in-depth coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes specifications, procedures, diagrams, and troubleshooting.
Digital Format Details:
Likely PDF or proprietary software format with searchable text, high-resolution diagrams, and interactive elements (if applicable).
Diagram Resolution:
High-resolution, clear line drawings and photographic illustrations.
Binding:
Not applicable (Software format).
Paper Quality:
Not applicable (Software format).
Engine Code:
SOHC 1.5L (4G91 derivative) and DOHC 2.0L (4G63 derivative, in some markets/variants).
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC 16-valve (1.5L) and DOHC 16-valve (2.0L).
Displacement Liters 1.5:
1.5 L (1499 cc)
Displacement Liters 2.0:
2.0 L (1997 cc)
Horsepower 1.5L:
94 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1.5L:
94 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Horsepower 2.0L:
130 hp @ 6000 rpm (standard), 140 hp (ES/GT) (approx.)
Torque 2.0L:
130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (standard), 130 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (ES/GT) (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 1.5L, 89 octane recommended for 2.0L for optimal performance).
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed manual transmission (Getrag Type 131).
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic transmission (Hydra-Matic 31-34, also referred to as A500/A550).
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate (manual transmission).
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy.
Wheelbase Inches:
104.4 inches
Length Inches:
166.8 inches
Width Inches:
66.5 inches
Height Inches:
53.3 inches (Coupe), 54.1 inches (Sedan)
Passenger Volume Cu Ft:
Approx. 95 cu ft (compact class)
Trunk Volume Cu Ft:
Approx. 12-15 cu ft (sedan), less for coupe.
Curb Weight Lbs:
2400 - 2700 lbs (depending on trim and transmission).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★ (4-star)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★ (4-star)
ABS:
Optional on most trims, standard on some higher trims/later models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver and front passenger pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil), 3,750 miles or 3 months (conventional oil), whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (platinum recommended).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SH, SAE 5W-30 (preferred for 1.5L and 2.0L engines, consult manual for alternatives).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (for Type 131).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler 5 Year Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) or equivalent OAT/HOAT coolant.
Common Problems:
Head gasket failures (especially early models), cooling system leaks, AC compressor issues, door lock actuator failures, starter motor issues, oil pan gasket leaks.
Electrical Quirks:
Flickering dashboard lights, power window motor issues.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (at the time of production).
Generation Info:
First generation Neon (PL platform), introduced for the 1995 model year.
Design Philosophy:
Designed as a global car, intended to compete with Japanese compacts, featuring a focus on handling and aerodynamic styling.
Production Period:
1994-2005 (across generations).
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Toluca, Mexico.
