🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Model Years Covered:

2000, 2001

Platform Code:

PL (Second Generation)

Chassis Codes:

DBA (Sedan), DG_ (Coupe)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, professional mechanics, fleet owners

Value Proposition:

Inexpensive alternative to dealership service, empowers vehicle owners with repair knowledge

Alternatives:

Dealership service departments, generic repair manuals (Haynes, Chilton - typically less detailed)

Detail Level:

Factory-level detail, often exceeding aftermarket manual coverage

Ease Of Use:

Clear instructions, numbered steps, bolded figure references, organized table of contents

Digital Convenience:

Instant download, printable, accessible on multiple devices

Manufacturer Use:

Identical to manuals used by authorized Dodge service technicians

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive: Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel System, Emission Control, Intake, Exhaust, Cooling, Lubrication, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Driveline, Axles, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Parking Brake, HVAC, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wipers, Washers, Door Locks, Instrumentation, Audio/Visual, Horn, Glass, Mirrors, Body Panels, Electrical Systems, Multiplex/CAN Communication

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Digital Delivery:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, camshafts, valve train, timing system, lubrication system

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, injection, ignition timing, air intake, exhaust system, cooling system, emissions control

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, gear shifting mechanisms, internal components

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, transmission control module (TCM), hydraulic system, valve body, planetary gear sets, seals, bands, clutches

Drivetrain:

Drive shafts, axles, CV joints, differentials

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (torsion beam, shocks), power steering system, steering column, steering gear

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (if equipped), brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake system

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), ignition system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, HVAC controls, infotainment, body control modules (BCM), airbag systems (SRS)

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant system

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, mirrors, seats, interior trim, dashboard assembly

Multiplex Can Communication:

CAN bus system, network communication protocols, module integration (advanced diagnostics)

Maintenance Routine:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection, belt inspection, spark plug replacement

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation, electrical system diagnostics

Repair Rebuild:

Step-by-step procedures for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of major vehicle components and systems

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing specific parts such as alternators, starters, radiators, water pumps, fuel pumps, sensors, actuators, interior/exterior trim, and glass

Electrical Diagnostics Repair:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, circuit diagnosis, connector repair, module programming (where applicable)

Performance Tuning:

While not primarily a tuning manual, it provides baseline specifications for engine performance adjustments and diagnostics

Safety Systems Repair:

SRS system diagnostics, airbag module replacement, seat belt repair (with appropriate safety precautions)

Body Collision Repair:

Panel removal/installation, alignment specifications, repair techniques

Depth Level:

Complete Factory Level (Full Disassembly and Reassembly)

Diagnostic Tools:

References OBD-II diagnostics, CAN bus tools, and specific Chrysler/Dodge diagnostic systems (e.g., DRB III compatibility)

Illustrations:

Hundreds of photos, drawings, and detailed exploded-view illustrations

Data Precision:

Precise torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, timing settings

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Structured troubleshooting trees and symptom-to-cause mapping

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages (full or partial)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Compatibility:

Windows and Mac OS

Storage Options:

Save to hard drive, burn to CD-ROM

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Various ('A' series family)

Engine Displacement 1:

2.0L (1996 cc) SOHC

Engine Displacement 2:

2.0L (1996 cc) DOHC (GT, R/T models)

Engine Displacement 3:

2.4L (2429 cc) DOHC (optional on some trims)

Horsepower 2.0L Sohc:

Approx. 132 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2.0L Sohc:

Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower 2.0L DOHc:

Approx. 150 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2.0L DOHc:

Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Horsepower 2.4L DOHc:

Approx. 145-150 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 2.4L DOHc:

Approx. 155-160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for performance models)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil packs

Cooling Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

Oil Type Recommendation:

Typically 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)

System:

Catalytic converter, EGR system, PCV system, evaporative emission control (EVAP)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag A578 for some models)

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., Chrysler's A604/41TE family)

Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (or equivalent Mopar/Chrysler approved fluid)

Fluid Type:

GL-3 or GL-4 manual transmission fluid (specific viscosity varies)

Type:

Hydraulically actuated diaphragm spring clutch (Manual Transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.4 inches

Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 55.4 inches

Length:

Approx. 174.0 inches

Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 53.7 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.0 inches

Curb Weight Approx:

2,700 - 3,000 lbs (depending on trim and options)

Wheel Size Standard:

14-inch or 15-inch steel or alloy wheels

Wheel Size Optional:

16-inch alloy wheels (on performance trims)

Bolt Pattern:

4x100mm

Tire Size Typical:

185/65R14, 195/60R15, 205/50R16

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Could vary by year and specific test, but early second-gen Neons generally received mixed to good ratings. Consult NHTSA records for precise data.

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Could vary by year and specific test.

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Could vary by year and specific test, but generally improved over first generation. Consult IIHS records.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (optional or standard on higher trims)

Traction Control:

Optional on some models

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags (standard)

Airbags Side:

Optional side impact airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette tape player. Upgradable aftermarket options available.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4 or 6 speakers, depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Immobilizer:

Engine immobilizer system for anti-theft.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on some trims.

Instrumentation:

Analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature), warning lights, odometer.

🔧 Maintenance

Interval:

Typically every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Interval:

Replace with each oil change.

Interval:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 30,000 miles).

Interval:

Typically every 100,000 miles (long-life platinum or iridium plugs).

Interval:

First change at 60,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 3 years thereafter (using HOAT coolant).

Interval Automatic:

Check periodically, replace every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual, severe service may require more frequent changes).

Interval Manual:

Check periodically, replace around 60,000 miles (refer to manual).

Engine Oil:

API Service SN, SM, SL, SJ, SG or higher; SAE 5W-30 recommended (refer to manual for climate-specific viscosity)

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (refer to manual for confirmation)

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4

Engine Mounts:

Premature failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and clunking noises.

Suspension Components:

Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends.

Rear Axle Bearings:

Potential for rear axle bearing wear, causing noise and handling issues (common on torsion beam setups).

Interior Rattles:

Common for interior trim pieces to develop rattles and squeaks over time.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket leaks can occur.

Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmissions (especially earlier iterations of the 41TE family) can be prone to solenoid issues, torque converter clutch problems, and wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Dodge (a division of Chrysler Corporation, later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis)

Generation:

Second Generation (PL platform)

Previous Generation:

First Generation Dodge Neon (1995-1999)

Design Changes:

Revised exterior styling with smoother lines, updated interior, improved chassis rigidity and aerodynamics compared to the first generation.

Key Trims 2000-2001:

SE, ES, SXT, R/T, ACR (American Club Racer)

Manufacturing Locations:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Toluca, Mexico

Production Years For This Generation:

1999-2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward Automotive Titles:

The 2.0L DOHC engine was on Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 2001.

General Reception:

Praised for its performance and handling in performance variants (R/T, ACR) by automotive journalists, though base models were more economy-focused.