🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

2001

Trim Level:

PL (likely referring to 'Platinum' or a specific fleet/export designation, common for Neon)

Market Segment:

Compact Car

Platform:

Chrysler PL (Platform)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2001 Dodge Neon was positioned as an affordable, fuel-efficient compact car, competing in a segment that included popular models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Chevrolet Cavalier.

Competitive Analysis:

While praised for its sporty handling and styling in its earlier generations, the 2001 Neon faced stiff competition. Its value proposition was often its price point and relatively peppy engine options for the class, though reliability and interior quality were sometimes cited as weaker points compared to Japanese rivals.

Key Features:

The 2001 model year brought a significant facelift to the second-generation Neon, including updated styling, improved interior appointments, and powertrain refinements. It was available in sedan and coupe body styles.

Manual Value Proposition:

This parts catalog is an indispensable tool for owners, mechanics, and parts suppliers seeking to identify, source, and replace correct components for the 2001 Dodge Neon, ensuring accuracy and proper fitment.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive parts catalog for all systems and components of the 2001 Dodge Neon PL.

Page Count:

Estimated 800-1200 pages (typical for a full model year parts catalog)

Manual Type:

Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Components:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, intake system.

Transmission Drivetrain Components:

Manual transmission (Getrag F23 or equivalent), Automatic transmission (Chrysler A604/41TE or equivalent), clutch assembly, CV axles, driveshafts, differential, transaxle.

Suspension Steering Components:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods), rear suspension (torsion beam axle or multi-link depending on variant), steering rack, power steering pump, steering column.

Braking System Components:

Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on trim), master cylinder, brake booster, ABS components, brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads.

Electrical System Components:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting (headlamps, tail lamps, interior), wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, sensors, ECUs.

Body And Interior Components:

Body panels (fenders, hoods, doors, trunk lid), bumpers, grille, glass, seals, interior trim panels, seats, airbags, HVAC system components, dashboard, steering wheel, pedals.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheels (steel and alloy options), lug nuts, tire specifications.

Parts Identification:

Detailed diagrams illustrating part locations and relationships with associated part numbers.

Part Number Lookup:

Provision of official Mopar (or equivalent) part numbers for ordering replacement components.

Component Interchangeability:

Implied information on which parts are compatible across different sub-models or production periods within the 2001 model year.

Depth:

Component-level detail for every replaceable part on the vehicle, including fasteners, seals, gaskets, and minor hardware.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for clear printing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick keyword lookups (e.g., 'alternator,' 'brake pad').

Digital Features:

Hyperlinked table of contents and cross-references within the PDF (if optimally created).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EK3 (for the 2.0L SOHC) and A588 (for the 2.0L DOHC)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1996 cc)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder

Valve Actuation:

SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) or DOHC (Double Overhead Cam)

Horsepower Sohc:

Approx. 132 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Sohc:

Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower DOHc:

Approx. 150 hp @ 6000 rpm (for ACR/SRT variants, though less common in standard PL)

Torque DOHc:

Approx. 137 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for ACR/SRT variants)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

ECM Type:

Chrysler SBEC or NGC (depending on specific build and options)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag F23 or similar)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (Chrysler A604/41TE or similar)

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate, hydraulically actuated (for manual)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (refer to specific manual for exact specs)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Drivetrain:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Height Sedan:

Approx. 53.9 inches (1370 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.0 inches (2641 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 2600 lbs (1179 kg)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 2850 lbs (1293 kg)

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 13.7 cu ft (388 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating 2001:

★★★★☆ (4 stars)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating 2001:

★★★★☆ (4 stars)

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating 2001:

Good (Good)

ABS:

Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims

Traction Control:

Rarely available or standard on specific high-performance variants

Airbags Front:

Standard driver and passenger front airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional side-impact airbags on some models

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with CD player and optional cassette tape player. Limited factory options for premium sound systems or navigation.

Speaker Configuration:

Standard 4 or 6 speaker setup.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Cruise control was common. ABS was optional on many trims.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Auxiliary input for audio may be present on some aftermarket head units.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to owner's manual for precise recommendations)

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type)

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Dodge Neon 2.0L engines use a timing chain, not a belt, which requires less frequent replacement intervals, often lifetime or inspected during major engine work).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Engine Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant (typically orange or pink)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to manual for exact spec)

Common Issues Engine:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially on earlier DOHC models or if overheated), intake manifold gasket leaks, timing chain tensioner noise (though chain-driven, some tensioner wear can occur).

Common Issues Transmission:

Automatic transmission solenoid failures, manual transmission clutch wear, axle seal leaks.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Worn control arm bushings, premature tie rod end wear, steering rack leaks.

Common Issues Electrical:

Alternator failure, power window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, ABS sensor failures.

Common Issues Body:

Rust in wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels; door lock actuator failures; interior trim creaks and rattles.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mopar MO-098 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51042, Fram PH3500)

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Mopar PA5150 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 49110, Fram CA3750)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later FCA, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from performance muscle cars to practical economy cars.

Model Evolution Neon Gen2:

The 2001 model year represents a significant refresh of the second-generation Neon (introduced for the 1995 model year). This facelift included updated exterior styling (front and rear fascias, headlights, taillights), a revised interior with improved materials and ergonomics, and minor mechanical updates.

Production Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

Production Period Gen2:

1995-2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Ratings:

The 2001 Neon received mixed reviews, with praise for its handling and value but criticism for interior quality and perceived reliability compared to some competitors. It was not a recipient of major 'Car of the Year' awards in its class for this specific model year.