🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Model Years Covered:

2000, 2001

Generation Code:

Second Generation (PL)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact car, known for affordability and practicality within the Dodge lineup.

Key Competitors Era:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier

Vehicle Appeal:

Offered a balance of fuel efficiency, manageable size, and a range of available powertrains. Second generation introduced updated styling and improved refinement.

Diy Benefit:

Empowers owners to perform their own repairs and maintenance, leading to significant cost savings. Provides the detailed technical information needed to do so correctly.

Scope:

Extremely comprehensive, covering all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems, which is crucial for effective troubleshooting and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Introduction, Lubrication and Maintenance, Suspension, Differential and Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling, Battery, Starting, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel Systems, Audio System, Horns, Vehicle Speed Control System, Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Systems, Windshield Wipers and Washers, Lamps, Restraint System, Electrically Heated Systems, Power Distribution System, Power Lock Systems, Vehicle Theft/Security System, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime Warning/Reminder System, Wiring Diagrams, Engine, Exhaust System, Frame and Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transaxle, Tires and Wheels, Body, Heating and Air Conditioning, Emission Control Systems

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Downloadable:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emission control systems

Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch, transaxle (automatic and manual), differential, driveline components

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear), wheels, tires

Electrical Components:

Battery, starting system, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, audio system, horns, vehicle speed control, turn signals, hazard warning, wipers and washers, restraint system, heated systems, power distribution, power locks, theft/security, power windows, power mirrors, chime warning/reminder, wiring diagrams

Body Components:

Frame, bumpers, body panels, interior trim, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)

Maintenance Procedures:

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

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, including disassembly, component replacement, and reassembly

Diagnostic Procedures:

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

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians. Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchable Text:

Likely, as is standard for high-quality PDF manuals.

Image Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and pictures are implied by the description.

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Type:

SOHC and DOHC 4-cylinder engines were available in this generation.

Engine Displacement Common:

2.0L (1996cc)

Horsepower Range:

Typically in the 110-132 horsepower range, depending on specific engine variant (e.g., SOHC vs. DOHC).

Torque Range:

Approximately 120-130 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack design.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Options:

5-speed manual transaxle

Automatic Options:

4-speed automatic transaxle

Transaxle Layout:

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan (4-door) and Coupe (2-door)

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 2600-2800 lbs, depending on body style and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Generally good for its class at the time of release, but specific ratings should be verified.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), optional front and rear disc brakes on higher trims or performance models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags may have been optional.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Features:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, with optional premium sound systems. Aux input and Bluetooth were not standard.

Cruise Control:

Available, often part of an optional package.

Vehicle Speed Control:

System description is included in the manual, indicating its presence as a technological feature.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specifications).

Engine Coolant Change:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years, using the specified coolant type.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type (e.g., platinum plugs typically last 60,000-100,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

API certified SAE 5W-30 is commonly recommended for most climates. Verify exact specification in the manual.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a pink or red color. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) is often specified.

Transmission Fluid Type:

For automatic: ATF+4 (MS-9602). For manual: GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90). Confirm with manual.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Engine Common Problems:

Head gasket failures (especially on early models or if overheated), oil leaks, ignition coil failures.

Transmission Common Problems:

Automatic transmission issues can include delayed shifts or slipping; manual clutch wear.

Suspension Common Problems:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links are common wear items.

Electrical Common Problems:

Power window motor failures, issues with the central locking system, dashboard warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Position:

Dodge is known for its sporty and performance-oriented vehicles, although the Neon aimed for a broader market segment focusing on value.

Neon Generation Change:

The 2000-2001 models represent the second generation (PL) of the Dodge Neon, which featured revised styling, interior, and mechanical updates compared to the first generation (1995-1999).

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Mentions:

Consumer Reports often provided reliability ratings which varied for the Neon; this manual would detail how to maintain it to mitigate potential issues.