🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

SX 2.0

Model Nickname:

European Neon / SRT-4 Variant

Platform Code:

PT Cruiser Platform / P-Body

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Car / Economy Car

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious consumers seeking practical transportation, often positioned as a sporty or performance-oriented variant in its class.

Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, Mitsubishi Lancer.

Design Philosophy:

Sporty styling, affordable pricing, and surprisingly potent performance options, especially in later SRT-4 variants which the SX 2.0 shares some platform DNA with.

Unique Selling Points:

Bold exterior design for its class, potential for aftermarket tuning and performance upgrades, practicality of a compact sedan.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Trim Levels Covered:

All SX 2.0 variants

Total Pages:

Approximately 2500+ pages (estimated, based on typical factory service manual scope for this era/platform)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair), engine management systems (ECU, sensors, actuators), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (gearbox, clutch, driveline), automatic transmission (if applicable variants exist, detailed overhaul and diagnostics), transaxle and differential components.

Brakes:

Brake system (hydraulic components, ABS, disc brakes, drum brakes), parking brake, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods), alignment specifications.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars), wheel bearings, wheel alignment.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, fuses and relays, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlamps, taillamps, interior lights), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), instrument cluster, body control modules (BCM).

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, climate control modules, diagnostic procedures.

Body And Trim:

Exterior body panels (hood, fenders, doors, bumpers), interior trim, glass and seals, door mechanisms, seat adjustments, body repair procedures, corrosion protection.

Chassis:

Chassis components, frame construction, mounting points, towing information, vehicle identification number (VIN) decoding.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections), lubrication points, tire rotation, brake inspection, coolant flush.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, flowcharts for identifying and resolving common issues across all major systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for component removal, installation, and overhaul, including torque specifications, special tool requirements, and assembly sequences.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, ABS, airbags, HVAC, and electrical systems, including use of scan tools and multimeter testing.

Specifications:

Comprehensive torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and other critical technical data for all components.

Depth:

Comprehensive Factory Level

Scope:

Covers routine maintenance, preventative services, component repair, system diagnostics, troubleshooting, and complete overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for physical reference

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

1.6L DOHC (4G18 variant, likely Mitsubishi origin)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1598 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

76.0 mm x 87.0 mm (typical for this engine family)

Horsepower:

Approximately 103 hp @ 6200 rpm (estimated for base 1.6L)

Torque:

Approximately 105 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm (estimated for base 1.6L)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (or as specified by dealer)

Ignition Type:

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

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170) or equivalent HOAT coolant

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 5.5 - 6.0 quarts (5.2 - 5.7 liters) with heater

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter

Oil Filter Part Number:

Typical Mopar equivalent: MO-092 or equivalent aftermarket (e.g., Fram PH3600, Wix 51356)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (optional on some markets/trims)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary; manual will detail them.

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy.

Manual Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 gear oil

Automatic Fluid Type:

Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 167.7 inches (4259 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.0 inches (1397 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2500-2650 lbs (1134-1202 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Typically around 3500 lbs (1588 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not specified or recommended for towing

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 13.0 - 15.0 cubic feet (behind rear seats)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (for driver and passenger in frontal crash tests, based on similar Chrysler PT Cruiser results)

IIHS Front Offset:

Acceptable or Marginal (depending on specific year and testing protocols, typical for this platform)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) may be available on higher trims or as an option

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard; side airbags optional on some models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player; optional premium audio system and/or cassette player. Satellite radio prep available.

Display:

Basic digital display for clock and radio information; no central touchscreen or navigation on base models.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, offering convenience on long drives.

Auxiliary Input:

No standard auxiliary audio input or USB ports on base models; aftermarket solutions may exist.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). For severe conditions, 5,000 miles (8,000 km).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 1 year.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically iridium plugs every 100,000 miles (160,000 km); consult manual for exact type and interval.

Coolant Flush Replacement:

Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine mounts can lead to vibration and noise, especially under acceleration.

Suspension Components:

Sway bar links, ball joints, and control arm bushings can wear, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.

Ignition Coils:

Coil-on-plug ignition systems can be prone to failure, causing misfires and rough running.

Radiator And Hoses:

Plastic end tanks on radiators can become brittle and leak. Coolant hoses should be inspected regularly for cracks and swelling.

Window Regulators:

Power window regulators can fail, leading to windows not operating correctly.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing diverse vehicles, from muscle cars to family sedans and trucks, often emphasizing performance and value.

Sx 2.0 Positioning:

The Dodge SX 2.0 was part of Chrysler's strategy to offer sporty and stylish compact cars, often borrowing platforms and powertrains from Mitsubishi (due to the DaimlerChrysler alliance). It aimed to capture a younger demographic seeking an affordable yet visually appealing vehicle.

Platform Sharing:

Shares its platform and many components with the Mitsubishi Lancer (Cedia platform) and closely related to the Chrysler PT Cruiser. This manual's coverage reflects the shared engineering origins.

Production Years:

2002-2005 (for the SX 2.0 variant, replacing earlier Neon models in some markets)

Manufacturing Location:

Likely assembled at Chrysler's Belvidere Assembly Plant (Illinois, USA), sharing production lines with the PT Cruiser.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jd Power Initial Quality:

Typically ranked average to below average in initial quality surveys for its segment during its production years, reflecting common Chrysler/Dodge quality perceptions of the era.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally rated as average to below average in reliability, with specific issues noted in drivetrain and electrical components.