Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and Dodge Neon owners seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information.
Value Proposition:
Provides a cost-effective alternative to dealership service, empowering users with factory-level repair data.
Manual Advantage:
Covers all engine and transmission variants for the specified years, offering detailed procedures that are crucial for accurate repairs and diagnostics.
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering System, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories, HVAC Controls, Anti-theft System
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Upholstery, Convertible Top (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance, tire rotation
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, electrical system diagnostics, component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system servicing, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, bodywork and collision repair
Installation:
Component replacement procedures for most major systems
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls. Includes wiring diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Code And Type 1:
420A (2.0L SOHC I4)
Engine Code And Type 2:
ECC/EDZ (2.0L DOHC I4 - ACR, SRT-4 variations)
Horsepower Range:
132 hp to 150 hp (naturally aspirated), 205 hp (SRT-4)
Torque Range:
130 lb-ft to 135 lb-ft (naturally aspirated), 210 lb-ft (SRT-4)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
ECU Type:
Various Chrysler NGC (Next Generation Controller) variants, depending on year and model
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or specified manual transmission fluid)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for certain models/years)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for certain models/years)
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (Optional Rear Disc Brakes). Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags. Optional side airbags on some later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front occupants.
Audio System Options:
Factory AM/FM/CD players, optional Infinity premium audio system on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on most trims.
HVAC System:
Manual or optional automatic climate control.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specifics.
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified, SAE 5W-30 (or 5W-20 for certain engines/climates, check owner's manual). Consult manual for specific viscosity recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter for 2.0L engines.
Engine Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and front crankshaft seal. Cracked exhaust manifold (especially on performance models). Transmission issues (slipping, hard shifting) in automatic transmissions. Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Common Problems 2:
Head gasket failure on some 2.0L SOHC engines (420A). Electrical gremlins, particularly related to body control module or power windows. Paint peeling/fading on certain trim pieces.
Oil Filter Example Part Number:
Wix 51515, Fram PH7317 (verify with specific engine/year)
Air Filter Example Part Number:
Wix 42871, Fram CA8014 (verify with specific engine/year)
Dodge Brand Context:
Part of the Chrysler Corporation, Dodge positioned as a sportier and more performance-oriented brand.
Neon Generation:
This manual covers the second generation (PL) of the Dodge Neon, introduced for the 2000 model year, featuring a significant redesign over its predecessor.
Assembly Locations:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production End Date:
2005
Car And Driver 10Best:
The first-generation Neon was a Car and Driver 10Best winner (1995). While the second generation didn't repeat this specific award, it maintained a strong presence in its segment.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports generally rated the Neon as average to below average in reliability for its model years, particularly concerning transmission and engine issues. This manual is invaluable for addressing these common concerns.
