🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Applicable Years:

2000, 2001, 2002, 2003

Generation Name:

Second Generation (PL)

Chassis Code:

PL

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Car / Economy Car

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Hyundai Elantra

Vehicle Platform:

The PL platform (shared with Chrysler Sebring Sedan/Coupe, Dodge Stratus Sedan/Coupe, and Mitsubishi Eclipse/Galant platforms in its later iterations) contributed to the Neon's handling characteristics.

Diy Emphasis:

Manual is geared towards enabling DIY enthusiasts to perform servicing and repairs, highlighting cost savings and tool acquisition.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Introduction, Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Cooling, Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring, Engine, Exhaust System, Frame & Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transmission/Transaxle, Tires/Wheels, Body, Heating & Air Conditioning, Emissions Control Systems, New Vehicle Preparation, Component and System Index

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (Exact number not specified, but typical for a full service manual)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission/Transaxle

Chassis:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Differential & Driveline, Tires & Wheels

Electrical And Electronics:

Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules (ECMs), Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring Harnesses

Body And Interior:

Body, Frame & Bumpers, Heating & Air Conditioning, Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication, filter replacements, inspections

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics

Overhaul:

Engine and transmission overhaul procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complex component replacement and troubleshooting. Includes detailed diagrams and specifications for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Reader Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

Quality:

High-resolution digital format, allowing for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

Binding:

Digital Download (PDF) - No physical binding

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

420A, ACR

Displacement:

2.0L (1996 cc)

Configuration:

Inline 4-Cylinder (I4)

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) and DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) variants exist, with the DOHC 16-valve being more performance-oriented.

Horsepower Sohc:

Approximately 132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Sohc:

Approximately 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Horsepower DOHc:

Approximately 150 hp @ 6000 rpm (R/T models)

Torque DOHc:

Approximately 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (R/T models)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual transaxle

Type:

4-speed automatic transaxle

Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (Refer to manual for specific part numbers/viscosity)

Fluid Type Automatic:

ATF+4 (Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid) (Refer to manual for specific part numbers)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 174.4 inches

Width:

Approximately 67.4 inches

Height:

Approximately 55.3 inches

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.4 inches

Curb Weight Est:

2600 - 2800 lbs (Varies by trim and transmission)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (for driver and passenger in frontal crash tests)

NHTSA Side Impact:

Acceptable/Good (depending on year and equipment)

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Drums or discs (depending on trim)

ABS:

Optional on some trims, standard on performance models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on select trims.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player and/or cassette tape player. Premium Infinity sound systems were optional.

Cruise Control:

Available as standard or optional depending on trim level.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available options.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 100,000 miles (depending on plug type)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher. (Refer to manual for specific Chrysler MS-6395 specification)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant (Conforms to MS-9769). Dilute 50/50 with deionized water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (Refer to manual for specific Mopar recommendation)

Engine Mounts:

Premature wear and failure of engine mounts can lead to vibration and clunking noises.

Rear Wheel Bearings:

Tendency for rear wheel bearings to fail prematurely, causing noise and play.

Evaporative Emissions System:

Issues with the EVAP system, such as charcoal canister leaks or purge valve faults, can cause check engine lights.

Strut Mounts:

Front strut mounts can wear out, leading to clunking over bumps and poor steering feel.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Dodge, as a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), aimed to offer sporty and value-oriented vehicles.

Generation Period:

The second generation (PL) of the Dodge Neon was produced from 2000 to 2005, with significant styling and chassis revisions from the first generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

Key Changes 2000-2003:

The 2000 model year introduced a significantly restyled exterior and interior, revised suspension, and updated powertrains compared to the first generation. Minor updates continued through 2003.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The second-generation Neon received generally positive reviews for its improved styling, handling, and value proposition compared to its predecessor. It was often praised for its European-inspired design and chassis dynamics.

Consumer Reports Reputation:

Consumer Reports typically rated the Neon in the average to below-average range for reliability, particularly concerning the transmission and electrical systems. (Specific ratings vary by year).