Segment:
Compact car, economy segment.
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, individuals seeking reliable and affordable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Mazda Protege.
Design Philosophy:
Fun-to-drive characteristics, sporty styling for its class, and an emphasis on value.
Distinguishing Traits:
Distinctive exterior styling, surprisingly roomy interior for its size, agile handling, and a competitive price point.
Models Covered:
All models and trim levels of the 1996 Dodge Neon
Repair Scope:
A-Z (All repairs from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and overhauls)
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Printed (original dealership issue, often bound or in a binder)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine performance diagnostics, engine control systems (ECM/PCM).
Transmission:
Manual transmission (D50 series) and automatic transmission (A570/A580 series) diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures. Clutch system.
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS components), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system, starting system, instrument panel, power accessories, body control modules, diagnostic connectors (OBD-I).
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, climate control system (HVAC), seats, safety restraints (airbags if equipped), glass, doors, hood, trunk.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections and replacements, spark plug service, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting flowcharts for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures (OBD-I era), electrical circuit testing, mechanical testing.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures for all major systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic values.
Depth:
Comprehensive and detailed, suitable for professional technicians. Includes detailed illustrations, exploded views, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Digital Format Quality:
High-resolution scans of original pages, searchable text (if digitally converted), clear reproduction of diagrams and photos.
Original Print Quality:
Professional dealership-grade printing with clear text and sharp diagrams/illustrations.
Original Binding:
Likely a multi-ring binder or professionally bound volume for durability in a workshop environment.
Original Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock designed for repeated use in a service bay.
Engine Code Displacement:
2.0L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) I4 (EJ20E/EJ20E-C - Chrysler designation for Japanese Mitsubishi 4G93-based engine)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Horsepower:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Engine Management System:
Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission (Getrag/Chrysler D50)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (Chrysler A570/A580)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 GL-3 or GL-4 (Check manual for specific Chrysler part numbers, e.g., Mopar MS-9224)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 (MS-9224) or equivalent
Wheelbase:
104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Length:
174.4 inches (4430 mm)
Width:
66.9 inches (1700 mm)
Height:
54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2600-2750 lbs (1179-1247 kg) depending on model and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3600 lbs (1633 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 10.7 cubic feet (sedan), 13.5 cubic feet (coupe)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Driver: 4 Stars, Passenger: 4 Stars (for comparable models of the era, specific 1996 data may vary).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most trims.
Seat Belts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard; typically uses lap/shoulder belts for child restraints.
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated discs, Rear: Drums. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
ABS Availability:
Optional, typically on higher trims or as a separate package.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.
User Interface:
Analog gauges, physical buttons for climate control and radio.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
ABS:
Optional anti-lock braking system.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation) connector, typically located under the dashboard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with regular oil and filter changes.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) as a guideline.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (typically platinum or iridium plugs recommended).
Timing Belt:
Non-interference engine, but inspection/replacement recommended around 90,000-100,000 miles (144,000-160,000 km) or 7 years.
Engine Oil:
API Service SJ or SL rated, SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended (check manual for specific viscosity and Mopar part numbers).
Coolant:
Chrysler Preferred Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), typically a silicate-treated ethylene glycol based coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid orDexron II/III ATF.
Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially after overheating), oil leaks, PCV system issues, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Suspension Issues:
Worn front control arm bushings, worn ball joints, rear axle bushings.
Electrical Issues:
Door lock actuator failures, power window motor issues, intermittent interior lighting, failing instrument cluster voltage regulators.
Transmission Issues:
Manual transmission clutch wear, automatic transmission solenoid failures or internal wear.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Regular flushing and refilling of coolant is crucial to prevent corrosion and overheating, which can lead to head gasket issues.
Manufacturer History:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, established in 1914, known for performance and utility vehicles.
Neon First Generation:
The Dodge Neon was introduced for the 1995 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Colt. It was part of Chrysler's 'Platform 0' initiative for global vehicle development, sharing its platform with Mitsubishi.
1996 Updates:
Minor updates for 1996, often including minor feature packaging changes or improved reliability enhancements from the previous year.
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA.
Production Years:
First Generation: 1995-1999.