🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Model Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001

Platform Code:

PL (Second Generation Neon)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and Dodge enthusiasts seeking comprehensive factory-level repair information.

Comparison To Aftermarket:

Offers a level of detail and accuracy directly from the manufacturer, surpassing most aftermarket repair guides in scope and precision.

Document Origin:

Authentic factory service documentation, providing the most accurate and up-to-date repair procedures.

Visual Aids:

Extensive use of diagrams, exploded views, and photographic sequences to clarify complex repair operations.

Repair Manual Scope:

This is a complete factory service manual, not an abbreviated guide, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component overhauls.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control Systems (MPI), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Automatic and Manual), Clutch, Driveline, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front and Rear, ABS), Body Exterior, Body Interior, HVAC System, Electrical System, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Emissions Control, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Maintenance Schedules, Specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500

Manual Type:

Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for disassembly, inspection, assembly, and overhaul of the 2.0L SOHC and DOHC engines, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valve train.

Engine Control:

In-depth coverage of the Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) system, including fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, sensors (MAP, TPS, ECT, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), actuators, and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) diagnostics and reprogramming.

Transmission:

Comprehensive service information for both the Aisin AX-4N/AX-4S 4-speed automatic transmission and the Getrag NV-G235 5-speed manual transmission, including removal, installation, overhaul, clutch service, and torque converter testing.

Suspension Steering:

Detailed instructions for servicing the front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension systems, including component replacement, alignment specifications, power steering system diagnostics and repair, and steering gear service.

Brakes:

Complete coverage of front disc and rear drum/disc brakes, including brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper service, rotor replacement, brake fluid flush, ABS system diagnostics, and hydraulic component repair.

Body And Trim:

Covers body panel removal and installation, interior trim components, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and body repair techniques.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change intervals, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid change, drive belt inspection and replacement, and battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, cooling system problems, starting/charging system failures, and HVAC malfunctions.

Major Repairs:

Step-by-step guides for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, brake system overhauls, and body panel repair.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including component location, pinouts, and troubleshooting guides for starters, alternators, lighting, power windows, and more.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures utilizing OBD-II scan tools, including reading DTCs, live data streaming, freeze frame data analysis, and component actuation tests.

Specification Detail:

Includes detailed torque specifications for all fasteners, critical clearances, fluid capacities and types, electrical resistance values, and performance data.

Rebuild Instructions:

Comprehensive instructions for rebuilding major components such as the engine, transmission, and steering rack, with detailed tolerances and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Searchable PDF

Printable:

Fully printable pages for convenient workshop use.

Illustrations:

High-resolution illustrations, diagrams, and photos.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Sohc:

2.0L 16-valve SOHC I4 (132 hp @ 6000 rpm, 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm)

Engine Code DOHc:

2.0L 16-valve DOHC I4 (150 hp @ 6000 rpm, 135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm - various tunes depending on submodel/year)

Bore Stroke Sohc:

87.5 mm x 83.0 mm

Bore Stroke DOHc:

87.5 mm x 83.0 mm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, 91+ for DOHC performance models)

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder (I4)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag NV-G235 5-speed manual

Optional Transmission:

Aisin AX-4N/AX-4S 4-speed automatic

Automatic Features:

Electronic control with torque converter lock-up clutch for improved fuel economy.

Manual Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch.

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios provided for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th gears for the Getrag NV-G235 transmission (refer to manual for exact figures).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Length:

167.7 inches (4259 mm)

Width:

66.9 inches (1700 mm)

Height:

55.4 inches (1407 mm)

Curb Weight Sohc Manual:

Approx. 2650 lbs (1202 kg)

Curb Weight DOHc Automatic:

Approx. 2850 lbs (1293 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (1999-2001 models with dual front airbags)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (1999-2001 models with dual front airbags)

Braking System:

Standard front disc, rear drum/disc brakes; optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels for select trims.

Airbags:

Standard dual front airbags; optional side airbags available on certain trims.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette player with optional premium sound system. Auxiliary inputs were rare.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most trims.

OBD Ii:

Equipped with an OBD-II diagnostic port for emissions and engine performance monitoring.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult specific manual section for precise intervals).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type: copper, platinum, or iridium).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API Certified); consult manual for specific viscosity grade based on ambient temperature.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent specification like Chrysler MS-9602).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (consult manual for exact specification).

Common Engine Problems:

Head gasket leaks, intake manifold gasket failures, oil leaks (valve cover, rear main seal), timing belt failure (critical maintenance item for SOHC engine), spark plug blow-out (in some early models).

Common Drivetrain Problems:

Automatic transmission solenoid failures, manual transmission clutch wear, CV axle joint failure.

Common Suspension Steering Problems:

Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, sagging springs, power steering pump whine or leaks.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change (for 2.0L engines).

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters) for 2.0L engines.

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for fluid change, 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters) for overhaul fill.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Part of Chrysler Corporation's Dodge division, known for sporty and accessible vehicles.

Generation:

This manual covers the second generation Dodge Neon (PL platform), introduced for the 1995 model year and significantly updated for 1999 with revised styling, improved safety, and powertrain enhancements.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports:

Mixed ratings over its lifecycle; reliability varied by year and powertrain, making a factory manual crucial for maintenance.

Safety Ratings:

Achieved 4-star ratings in NHTSA frontal crash tests when equipped with airbags, but side impact protection could be a concern on earlier models.