🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

1997

Platform:

PL (Project: Lightning)

Generation Code:

First Generation (JA/JXi)

Generation Years:

1994-1999

Vin Code Engine:

P (SOHC), G (DOHC)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Neon was positioned as an affordable, fuel-efficient compact car with a sporty character, competing in a crowded segment against rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Escort. The 1997 model year represented a significant mid-cycle refresh.

Competitors:

Honda Civic (EK), Toyota Corolla (E110), Ford Escort (ZX2), Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.

Features Overview:

The 1997 Neon introduced updated styling, improved interior ergonomics, and refinements to the powertrains. It was known for its agile handling and surprisingly spacious interior for its class.

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners seeking to understand their vehicle's systems and perform maintenance or repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1997 Dodge Neon (All Trims and Engine Options)

Secondary Coverage:

Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Maintenance, Diagnostics

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1000-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (including disassembly, assembly, timing, valve train, lubrication, cooling), Fuel system (injection, fuel pump, pressure regulator), Exhaust system, Ignition system, Starting and charging system

Transmission:

Manual Transmission (A520, A525) and Automatic Transmission (30/43LE) service, including removal, installation, overhaul, fluid specifications, and diagnostics

Chassis:

Suspension (front struts, rear torsion beam/coil springs), Steering system (power steering, steering column), Brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs, ABS if equipped), Wheels and tires

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay information, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks), audio system, body control modules, diagnostic connector (OBD-II)

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, body seals, structural components

Maintenance:

Recommended service intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, inspections

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair, including torque specifications and special tool requirements

Specifications:

All necessary technical data, tolerances, clearances, and diagnostic parameters

Depth:

Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (allowing quick lookup of specific terms and components)

Printability:

Printable (allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual)

Image Resolution:

High-resolution (clear diagrams, schematics, and photographs)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

420A

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1996 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.42 x 3.37 inches (86.9 x 85.5 mm)

Compression Ratio:

9.8:1

Horsepower:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

124 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Redline:

6500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended

Engine Code:

DOHC 420A (Optional on ACR, ES, SE models)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Cam), 16-valve

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1996 cc)

Horsepower:

145 hp @ 6200 rpm

Torque:

130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Manual Transmission Model:

A520 / A525

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Automatic Transmission Model:

30/43LE

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated diaphragm spring clutch

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mopar ATF+3 (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

160.1 inches (4067 mm)

Width:

66.9 inches (1700 mm)

Height:

53.3 inches (1354 mm) (Coupe) / 55.0 inches (1397 mm) (Sedan)

Wheelbase:

104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Front Track:

58.3 inches (1481 mm)

Rear Track:

58.5 inches (1486 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg) depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, consult owner's manual or VIN plate

Towing Capacity:

Not recommended for towing

Standard Wheel Size:

14-inch steel or optional 15-inch alloy

Standard Tire Size:

185/70R14 (SOHC) / 195/60R15 (DOHC)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100mm

Lug Nut Torque:

100 lb-ft (135 Nm)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 stars (1997 model year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 stars (1997 model year)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (for 1997 models)

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (10.1 inch), Rear drum brakes (9.0 inch) standard. Optional rear disc brakes and ABS.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts. Driver and passenger pretensioners.

Child Safety:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard on this generation. Child seat anchor points provided.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level (e.g., 4-speaker or 6-speaker systems).

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with a/c and heater. Recirculation mode.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most trims, standard on some higher trims.

Antilock Brakes:

Optional ABS system on front wheels, or front and rear wheels depending on configuration.

Diagnostic Port:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for electronic code reading and diagnostics.

Power Windows:

Optional on lower trims, standard on SE and SLT models.

Power Door Locks:

Optional.

Keyless Entry:

Optional remote keyless entry system.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with engine oil and filter.

Engine Coolant Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km). Replace as needed or every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km). Change fluid and filter every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 24 months or 30,000 miles (48,000 km), or as needed due to moisture absorption.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for platinum plugs, or 15,000 miles for standard copper plugs.

Engine Oil Type:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30. For temperatures below -20°F (-29°C), use SAE 0W-30.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.5 quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water)

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent)

Common Issues:

Oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), ignition coil failure, rear main seal leaks, clutch wear, AC system leaks, rust (especially around wheel wells and rocker panels), electrical gremlins (door locks, windows), and transmission synchro issues in manual transmissions.

Timing Belt:

The SOHC engine uses a timing belt, which should be replaced at recommended intervals (typically 70,000-90,000 miles or 7 years). Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Part Identification:

The manual provides part numbers for replacement components, facilitating accurate ordering.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge History:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks and vans to performance cars and family sedans. The Neon was introduced to bolster Dodge's presence in the critical compact car market.

Neon Development:

The Dodge Neon (codename PL) was developed as a competitor to Japanese and European compact cars. It was designed to offer good performance, handling, and value, and was notably sold under the Plymouth brand in some markets.

1997 Update:

The 1997 model year saw the Neon receive its first major refresh. Changes included revised exterior styling (new front and rear fascia, headlamps, and grille), updated interior trim and ergonomics, improved noise insulation, and refinements to the engine and suspension. The ACR (American Club Racer) trim was introduced in 1995 and continued in '97, offering a more performance-oriented package.

Manufacturing Locations:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA and Toluca, Mexico.

Production Years Model:

1994-2005 (First Generation: 1994-1999)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Car and Driver magazine recognized the Dodge Neon as one of its '10Best' list for 1995 and 1996, highlighting its value and driving dynamics.

Other Awards:

The Neon also received various industry accolades for its design and engineering upon its initial release.