Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Hyundai Elantra.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides official, factory-level repair information, saving money on dealership services and enabling accurate DIY repairs.
Vehicle Highlight:
The Dodge Neon (second generation) offered a good balance of practicality, affordability, and surprisingly sprightly performance in certain trims, making it a popular choice for younger drivers and budget-conscious families.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, starting and charging systems, engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag MS-S40) and Automatic transmission (Chrysler NV1500/1515) overhaul, service, diagnosis, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle, CV joints, propeller shaft (if applicable), differential service.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum or disc/disc), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, hydraulic systems, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Full electrical system schematics, battery, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, HVAC controls, starter, alternator.
Body:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, glass replacement, seals, structural repair procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, component replacement.
Restraints:
Airbag system diagnosis, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) component replacement and precautions.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, brake pad replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common symptoms, fault codes, wiring diagrams for tracing electrical issues, guided troubleshooting trees.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, etc.
Installation:
Instructions for installing replacement parts, accessories, and sometimes aftermarket components.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to advanced diagnostics, component replacement, and full system overhauls.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation, and specific test procedures for diagnosing faults.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing damage.
Schematics:
Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, and hydraulic schematics.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (Getrag MS-S40)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic (Chrysler NV1500/1515)
Srt4 Transmission:
Performance-tuned 5-speed manual (Getrag 'Speed Six' derived, later Getrag versions used).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific type)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Acceptable (2002 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (2002 Model Year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (2002 Model Year)
ABS:
Available, standard on higher trims and SRT-4.
Airbags:
Standard dual front airbags. Side airbags available on some models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Unibody construction with crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend recommended).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (if using specified platinum or iridium plugs), otherwise 30,000 miles for standard copper plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter (for 2.0L engines)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (5/150,000 miles, or 5/5 years)
Engine Common Problems:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, occasional head gasket failures on early models, spark plug blow-out on some 2.0L SOHC engines (manual addresses prevention/repair).
Transmission Common Problems:
Clutch wear on manual transmissions, torque converter shudder on automatic transmissions.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn front strut mounts, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items.
Electrical Common Problems:
Window regulator failure, power lock actuator issues, and occasional dashboard warning light illumination.
Brand Focus:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, historically focused on performance and value in its product offerings.
Generation:
Second Generation (2000-2005). This manual covers the latter half of this generation, which received updates and styling revisions.
Key Updates 02-05:
Revised exterior styling (front and rear fascias, headlights, taillights), interior upgrades, and the introduction of the high-performance SRT-4 model in 2003.
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
2000-2005 (for the second generation)
