🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

1998

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Dodge Neon was part of the first generation, positioned as a compact, affordable, and fuel-efficient vehicle aimed at the entry-level market, competing with models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Escort. It emphasized sporty styling and handling for its class.

Competitive Analysis:

The Neon offered a distinct American-market alternative in a segment dominated by Japanese manufacturers. Its quad-cam engine options and agile chassis were often highlighted as advantages. The 1998 model year saw minor refinements over earlier versions.

Key Features:

Distinctive 'cab-forward' styling, available multiple engine options (including higher-performance variants), independent front suspension, rear multi-link suspension, good interior packaging for its size.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete service and repair for 1998 Dodge Neon.

Page Count:

N/A (typical workshop manuals are extensive, often 1000+ pages depending on scope)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (typical for this era, digital versions often derived)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), body electrical, HVAC, chassis, body, interior, exterior, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, seat removal, dashboard components, headliner, carpeting, trim panels.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and descriptions, relay functions, power distribution, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power accessories (windows, locks), instrument cluster, sensors and actuators.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, diagnostic troubleshooting, repair procedures, system adjustments, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, exploded views.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-to-cause tables, and specific diagnostic trouble code (DTC) explanations for engine, transmission, and other systems. Includes procedures for using a diagnostic scan tool.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, seals), cylinder head refurbishment, and reassembly with specified torque values.

Transmission Overhaul:

Instructions for manual transmission clutch replacement, gear synchronization, bearing replacement, and automatic transmission disassembly, component replacement, valve body diagnostics, and reassembly.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis repairs. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (assuming printed)

Print Quality:

High-quality paper, clear illustrations and text (standard for factory service manuals).

Binding Type:

Stapled or perfect bound (typical for workshop manuals).

Paper Type:

Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper stock to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1996 cc)

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC and DOHC variants

Horsepower:

Approximately 132 hp (SOHC), 150 hp (DOHC) for standard models. ACR and R/T models offered higher output, e.g., 150 hp for DOHC, and potentially more with specific tuning.

Torque:

Approximately 130 lb-ft (SOHC), 135 lb-ft (DOHC) for standard models. Specific values varied by engine tune.

Engine Codes:

Common engine codes for the 2.0L include A528 (SOHC) and A518 (DOHC). Manual will provide specific codes for different market variants.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 13.1 US gallons (49.6 L).

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs.

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 83.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.6:1 (SOHC), 9.4:1 or 10.0:1 (DOHC, depending on sub-model and tune)

Valvetrain:

SOHC: 8 valves, 2 per cylinder. DOHC: 16 valves, 4 per cylinder. Overhead Camshaft (OHC), belt-driven.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 L) with heater (verify with manual).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 285/286 or equivalent)

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Chrysler A500/41TE or similar)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (refer to specific manual for exact Mopar P/N and Dexron/API specifications).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification - early models may have used ATF+2/3; manual will clarify)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 161.9 inches (4112 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.2 inches (1351 mm) for Coupe, 54.9 inches (1394 mm) for Sedan

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Front Track:

Approx. 58.0 inches (1473 mm)

Rear Track:

Approx. 57.5 inches (1460 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2550 - 2800 lbs (1157 - 1270 kg) depending on body style and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A (Manual will specify)

Towing Capacity:

Not rated for towing.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 12.4 cu ft for Sedan, 9.3 cu ft for Coupe (check manual for exact figures).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:

4 Stars (driver, 35 mph frontal impact - results varied by specific test configuration and year, consult manual for era-specific data).

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:

4 Stars (passenger, 35 mph frontal impact - results varied by specific test configuration and year, consult manual for era-specific data).

ABS:

Optional on most trims, standard on some performance models like ACR/R/T.

Traction Control:

Not commonly available on 1998 models; would be extremely rare if offered.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seat belts, driver side pretensioner.

Body Structure:

Integrated Safety Cage construction.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM cassette player. Optional CD player, upgraded speaker systems.

Dashboard:

Basic analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer on some trims, fuel, temperature), warning lights.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most trims.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic power outlets and antenna for radio. No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (or 6-12 months), depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for standard plugs, 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs (depending on type installed).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (critical on these 2.0L engines; failure can cause severe engine damage - refer to manual for exact interval and procedures).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (recommended).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Check level periodically. Automatic: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher), or SAE 10W-30 for very cold climates. Manual will specify exact grade and capacity.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze. Mopar recommended 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Manual will list specific type and capacity (e.g., HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Mopar power steering fluid (verify with manual).

Chassis Grease:

Lithium-based chassis lubricant (NLGI #2) for specified lubrication points.

Common Issues:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on early DOHC), radiator leaks, heater core issues, timing belt failure (if maintenance skipped), front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), AC system leaks, rear axle bearing wear, occasional electrical gremlins.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Fram PH3675, Wix 51064, Mopar MS-6317 (verify with specific part catalog for exact fitment).

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Fram CA3900, Wix 42614, Mopar 4778470 (verify).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, as a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks to performance cars. The Neon represented a significant push into the compact segment for the brand in the 1990s.

Model Evolution:

The first generation Dodge Neon (1995-1999) was launched to replace the aging Dodge Colt. The 1998 model year represented the latter part of this generation, with minor styling updates and powertrain refinements. It was available in various trims, including base, Highline, Sport, ACR (American Club Racer), and R/T.

Trim Levels 1998:

Base, Highline, SE, ES, R/T, ACR. Specific features varied significantly between trims.

Production Years:

1995-1999 (First Generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

USA (Belvidere, Illinois)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Dodge Neon, particularly the R/T and ACR models, received positive reviews for its handling and performance in the compact car segment during its production run, often cited by automotive journalists as a surprisingly sporty and engaging driver's car.