🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

1998

Generation Code:

PG-II

Platform:

Chrysler PL platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Car

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, professional technicians, enthusiasts

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra

Value Proposition:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance coverage for a popular compact car, enabling cost-effective ownership.

Manual Advantage:

Detailed diagrams, step-by-step instructions, and official specifications provide accurate and efficient repair guidance.

📋 Manual Details

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan

Trim Levels:

All, including base, SE, ES, R/T

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain

Chassis:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Audio, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM)

Body:

Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Glass, Seals

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing

Repair:

Component removal and installation, adjustments, overhaul procedures

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text, printable pages

Print Recommendation:

Optimized for digital viewing; can be printed for workshop use

Binding For Printed:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper For Printed:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

SOHC: EAS (1.8L); DOHC: AJA (2.0L)

Displacement:

1.8L (1755 cc) and 2.0L (1996 cc)

Cylinders:

4

Configuration:

Inline

Horsepower 1.8L:

116 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 1.8L:

122 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Horsepower 2.0L:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm (SE/ES trims), 150 hp @ 6000 rpm (R/T trim - DOHC)

Torque 2.0L:

130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (SE/ES trims), 135 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (R/T trim - DOHC)

Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) for DOHC

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (Hydraulic)

Clutch:

Dry, single plate (manual)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Manual Transaxle Fluid - Mopar part #04874464 or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Chrysler ATF+3 (ATF Type 7176) (Automatic Transaxle Fluid - Mopar part #05010081AA or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 168.4 - 170.1 inches

Width:

Approx. 67.5 inches

Height:

Approx. 53.5 - 55.4 inches

Wheelbase:

104.0 inches

Trunk Volume Sedan:

Approx. 13.1 cu ft

Trunk Volume Coupe:

Approx. 11.0 cu ft

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 2550 lbs

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 2750 lbs

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100mm

Wheel Size:

14 or 15 inches (16 inches for R/T)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

Not explicitly rated for 1998 model year in easily accessible public records, but similar era vehicles generally performed moderately.

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

Not explicitly rated for 1998 model year in easily accessible public records.

ABS:

Optional on most trims, standard on some higher trims (e.g., ES, R/T)

Traction Control:

Not commonly available or standard for this model year.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard in 1998.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette, Optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control standard; A/C system service is covered.

Cruise Control:

Available on SE and ES trims, standard on R/T.

Wiring Diagrams Detail:

Includes detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems, crucial for troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend recommended)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs), 100,000 miles (platinum plugs)

Coolant Change:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+3

Common Problems:

Head gasket failures (especially on early 2.0L DOHC engines), AC compressor issues, starter motor failures, rear wheel bearing noise, manual transmission synchro wear.

Manual Assistance For Issues:

The manual provides detailed troubleshooting steps and repair procedures for these common issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Positioning:

Dodge, as Chrysler's performance-oriented brand, aimed for value and sportiness with models like the Neon.

Neon Generation:

This manual covers the second generation (PG-II) Neon, introduced for the 1995 model year and refreshed for 1998.

1998 Updates:

The 1998 model year received minor cosmetic updates, revised suspension tuning, and powertrain improvements for enhanced performance and refinement.

Manufacturing Plant:

Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA

Production Years:

1994-2005 (Neon)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Dodge Neon (across various model years and generations) was recognized by Car and Driver magazine on its annual '10Best' list multiple times, including for the 1997 model year, highlighting its value and driving dynamics.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for this era often highlighted its affordability and fuel economy, but noted reliability concerns in certain areas, which this manual helps address.