Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, owners seeking detailed repair information
Competitors 2003:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, saving time and money compared to dealership service.
Engine:
2.0L SOHC (16-valve) & 2.0L DOHC (16-valve) -Chrysler World Engine
Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Module (ECM) diagnostics, ignition system, fuel system, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag RT-300 Series), Automatic (41TE/42LE)
Chassis:
Suspension (front strut, rear twist beam axle), steering (power rack and pinion), brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc)
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power windows, power locks, audio system, instrument cluster, starter, alternator
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing
Repair:
Engine mechanical repair, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Installation:
Component replacement procedures for most parts of the vehicle
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic to advanced repairs and diagnostics
Engine Code Sohc:
2.0L (1995cc) SOHC I4 (16-valve)
Engine Code DOHc:
2.0L (1995cc) DOHC I4 (16-valve) - ACR (American Chrysler Racing)
Horsepower Sohc:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Sohc:
130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower DOHc:
145 hp @ 6400 rpm (approx.)
Torque DOHc:
135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded
Bore X Stroke:
3.46 in x 3.43 in (87.7 mm x 87.0 mm)
Compression Ratio Sohc:
9.3:1
Compression Ratio DOHc:
9.8:1
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag RT-300 Series)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter, electronically controlled
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
NHTSA Driver Front 2003:
★★★★ (4-star)
NHTSA Passenger Front 2003:
★★★★ (4-star)
ABS:
Available (Standard on some trims)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium sound system.
Speakers:
Standard 4-speaker system, optional 6-speaker Infinity system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Oem Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for standardized diagnostic tool connection.
Oil Change Interval:
7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic blend oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Sohc:
100,000 miles (Platinum plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement DOHc:
60,000 miles (Iridium plugs)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 quarts (3.8L) with filter change (for 2.0L engines).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (preferred for most climates)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5/100 (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and clunking.
Window Regulators:
Common failure of power window regulators.
Radiator Fans:
Fan motor failure leading to overheating.
Suspension Components:
Premature wear on front struts and rear suspension bushings.
Dodge Identity:
Chrysler's performance-oriented division, known for muscular styling and accessible performance.
Neon Generation:
Second Generation (PL, 2000-2006)
2003 Updates:
Minor styling revisions, introduction of enhanced safety features, and improved powertrain options.
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Production Years Pl Body:
2000-2006