Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Dodge Neon owners seeking detailed repair information
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier
Differentiation:
The Dodge Neon was positioned as a sportier, more engaging alternative in the compact segment, often praised for its handling and surprisingly potent engine options.
Design Philosophy:
Cab-forward design, aerodynamic styling, and a focus on driver engagement
Platform:
Chrysler PL platform
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair for all gasoline engines
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, starting system, charging system, sensors, actuators, ECU troubleshooting
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions (e.g., A520, A535, NV1500)
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., 30LE)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, CV joints, differential service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, hydraulic pump and lines
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, power windows, door locks, horn, wipers, power mirrors, fuses, relays
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, seat mechanisms, interior trim, dashboard removal, HVAC system service
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostic procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), OBD-II system information (for later models)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting flowcharts for all major systems
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major components
Engine Type 1:
2.0L SOHC Inline-4
Bore X Stroke 1:
87.6 mm x 83.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
9.6:1
Horsepower 1:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1:
128 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Engine Type 2:
2.0L DOHC Inline-4 (ACR, Sport models)
Horsepower 2:
140-150 hp (depending on variant)
Engine Type 3:
2.0L SOHC Inline-4 (Canada, some export)
Engine Type 4:
2.0L DOHC Inline-4 (SRT-4 precursor)
0 60 Mph Approx:
7.5 - 9.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for performance variants)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
Approximately 45-55 psi
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (1995 model year testing)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (1995 model year testing)
ABS:
Optional on most models, standard on some higher trims
Traction Control:
Rarely available, optional on some later performance models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard from 1995 onwards
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not available in this generation
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-4 years
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic, inspect manual periodically
Engine Oil Type Capacity:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with filter (consult manual for specific engine)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some 420A engines may exhibit higher oil consumption as mileage increases; monitor oil levels regularly.
Headgasket Leaks:
Potential for head gasket failures, especially on earlier models or if cooling system is not maintained.
Suspension Wear:
Strut mounts, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear prematurely due to road conditions.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cast iron exhaust manifolds can develop cracks due to thermal cycling.
Interior Rattles:
Common for interior trim panels and dashboards to develop squeaks and rattles over time.
Rear Axle Beam Bushings:
The rubber bushings in the rear axle beam can degrade and cause clunking noises.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing American cars known for performance and value.
Platform Development:
The Neon was part of Chrysler's strategic shift towards globally competitive small cars, utilizing the PL platform co-developed with Mitsubishi.
Facelift Minor Updates:
Minor styling updates and feature enhancements occurred throughout its production run, including revised interior and exterior elements by 1998.
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Production End Year:
2005 (for the Neon nameplate, later generations)
Sales Performance Context:
The Neon was a significant volume seller for Dodge in the mid-to-late 1990s, competing effectively in the crowded compact car market.