Market Segment:
Compact Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, enthusiasts seeking affordable performance
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier
Neon Advantage:
Sporty styling, accessible pricing, nimble handling, and a range of performance-oriented trims (e.g., ACR)
Design Philosophy:
A sporty and affordable compact car designed to offer European-inspired handling and a distinctive aesthetic
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan
Trim Levels 1997:
Base, High Line, Sport, ACR (American Club Racer)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, component testing, diagnostics, timing belt replacement, cylinder head service
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul, clutch replacement, gear selection diagnosis, linkage adjustments
Transmission Automatic:
Operation, diagnostics, fluid changes, internal component inspection (if applicable to 1997 models)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, axles, differentials
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), rotor and pad replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, chassis components
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system operation, refrigerant handling, component replacement, diagnostics
Diagnostics:
OBD-II troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections
Routine Repairs:
Step-by-step instructions for common repairs like brake pad replacement, fluid flushes, spark plug changes
Major Repairs:
Comprehensive guidance for engine rebuilding, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for identifying and resolving specific vehicle issues
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits
Component Removal Installation:
Specific instructions for safely removing and reinstalling virtually every component
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise torque values, clearances, and measurement specifications for all critical components
Depth:
Expert-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics
Diagnostics Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including symptom-based troubleshooting and system analysis
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed procedures for complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios by model and final drive
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (e.g., Pennzoil Synchromesh)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1997 Model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1997 Model)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (Varies by specific test and year)
ABS:
Optional on most models, standard on some higher trims/later production
Traction Control:
Not typically available on 1997 models
Airbags Driver:
Standard Dual Front Airbags
Airbags Passenger:
Standard Dual Front Airbags
Seatbelts:
Front: Three-point, height-adjustable; Rear: Three-point (outboard), lap belt (center)
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard on 1997 models
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (platinum plugs may have longer intervals)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (CRITICAL - Interference Engine)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Inspect annually, change as needed based on usage and condition
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 in warmer climates)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange or Yellow)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.2 US quarts (6.8 Liters)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Mopar)
Common Problems Engine:
Timing belt failure (due to lack of replacement), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil pressure sensor issues, occasional head gasket issues
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn front struts/shocks, ball joint wear, control arm bushing deterioration
Common Problems Electrical:
Faulty power window regulators, radiator fan motor failures, interior lighting issues, intermittent dashboard warning lights
Common Problems Body:
Rust in wheel wells and rocker panels, door lock actuator failures
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (Dodge is a division)
Design Basis:
Developed under the Chrysler-Plymouth umbrella, with significant engineering input from Mitsubishi (former partner)
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Plymouth Neon and Chrysler's global compact car strategy
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Toluca, Mexico
Production Total 1997:
Approximately 180,000 units (across Dodge and Plymouth Neon variants)