Segment:
Compact Sport Sedan (performance-oriented)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on the Dodge Neon SRT-4.
Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (in terms of performance, though often at a higher price point).
Vehicle Highlights:
Powerful turbocharged engine, agile handling, aggressive styling, relatively affordable performance.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical knowledge for maintaining, repairing, and optimizing the performance of the Dodge Neon SRT-4, mirroring dealership-level information.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, emission control system, turbocharger system, exhaust system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) wiring diagrams, sensor diagnostics, fuel injection system diagnostics.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (NVT550) removal, installation, repair, clutch system, drive shafts, differential.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system diagnosis, repair, ABS system, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, wheel alignment, steering system, power steering.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, structural components, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement.
Electrical System:
Battery, lighting system, instrumentation, wipers and washers, horn, power accessories, body control module (BCM), infotainment system wiring.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, exhaust system repair.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for all electronic control modules (ECMs), sensors, actuators, and electrical circuits. Includes wiring diagrams and connector pinouts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and tire rotations to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical system diagnostics.
Level Of Detail:
Includes detailed instructions, exploded views, torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Name:
2.4L DOHC 16-Valve Turbocharged Inline-4 (World Engine)
Displacement:
2429 cc (148.2 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 100.3 mm
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Turbocharger:
Garrett GT28R (or similar, depending on specific production run)
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Transmission Type:
Getrag NVG 550 5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
None (Manual transmission was standard for SRT-4)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, single dry plate
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 Synthetic Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific Mopar part number)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
2.0 liters (approx.)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
4 Stars (for 2003-2006 models)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2003-2006 models)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good (for 2003-2006 models)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Optional on some trims/later models, standard on SRT-4
Airbags Front Impact:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side Impact:
Optional side curtain airbags on some trims
Seatbelts:
3-point active front and rear seat belts, pretensioners
Audio System:
Base models featured a standard AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims or optional packages could include premium Boston Acoustics sound systems with amplifiers and subwoofers.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control was standard, with optional automatic climate control on some higher-trim models.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, and power mirrors were available on higher trims and optional on others.
Performance Tuning Features
Boost Gauge:
Integrated dash-mounted boost gauge for monitoring turbocharger pressure.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used). Refer to manual for exact recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed, check visually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped plugs typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles. Iridium plugs can extend this further. Refer to manual for specific type and interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Manual transmissions are often neglected; refer to manual.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Long Life Coolant (typically pink or orange). Refer to manual for Mopar part number or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification and change interval).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4) or equivalent, as specified by Chrysler/Dodge.
Engine Sludge:
Early models (and those with infrequent oil changes) can experience engine sludge buildup, particularly around the oil pickup tube. Regular oil changes with quality synthetic oil are crucial.
Clutch Wear:
The stock clutch can be a weak point under aggressive driving. Upgraded clutches are common in the SRT-4 community.
Vacuum Leaks:
Various vacuum hoses and connections can degrade over time, leading to boost leaks and rough idle. Regular inspection is recommended.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear out, leading to humming or grinding noises.
Oxygen Sensor Failures:
Oxygen sensors can fail over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Dodge Performance Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles, often with a 'muscle car' ethos. The SRT (Street & Racing Technology) division was established to further enhance this reputation.
Neon Generation 2:
The second generation Neon, launched for the 2003 model year, received a significant redesign and platform update, moving to the Chrysler PT platform. It offered improved styling and a more refined chassis compared to its predecessor.
Srt4 Introduction:
The SRT-4 variant was introduced as the high-performance flagship of the Neon lineup, leveraging the turbocharged engine and performance tuning expertise of the SRT division to create a potent compact sport sedan.
Production Years:
2003-2005 (SRT-4 variants)
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Sport Compact Car Magazine:
Often lauded by publications like Sport Compact Car Magazine for its performance value and tuning potential.
Motorweek Drivers Choice Award:
The Dodge Neon (including SRT-4 variants) was recognized with awards like MotorWeek's 'Best Performance Car' in its segment.
Epa Fuel Economy Est City:
Approx. 19-21 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy Est Highway:
Approx. 27-30 MPG