🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

2005

Generation Code:

Second Generation (2000-2005)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Neon was positioned as an affordable, compact, and sporty sedan and coupe, targeting younger buyers and those seeking value for money in the entry-level segment.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, and Hyundai Elantra during its production run.

Key Features:

Known for its nimble handling, relatively powerful engine options for its class, and a distinctive styling that appealed to a certain demographic. The 2005 model represents the latter part of the second generation.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Downloadable:

Yes

Compatibility:

Windows & Mac (via Adobe PDF Reader)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving Operation, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories.

Procedures Included:

Basic operation, understanding controls, basic maintenance procedures, fluid checks, safety feature explanations, cleaning guidelines, driving tips, troubleshooting common indicators.

Technical Depth:

Covers essential owner information for daily use and basic maintenance. Provides guidance on understanding vehicle systems and performing routine checks. Does not include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic information typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Print Quality:

High resolution, printable pages

Page Count:

Estimated 250-350 pages (typical for an owner's manual of this era and scope)

Binding Type:

Not applicable (digital download)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

2.0L SOHC I4 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Code:

EDZ

Horsepower:

132 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Variants:

While the primary engine was the 2.0L SOHC, performance variants like the SRT-4 had different engines (e.g., 2.4L Turbocharged). This manual likely covers the standard 2.0L SOHC for the majority of models.

Fuel System:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change

Air Filter Part Number:

Typical Mopar part number for 2005 Neon 2.0L SOHC air filter is likely in the 04596247 or similar series. Exact number may vary by supplier.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent specification)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Lubricant, SAE 75W-90 (typically)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.4 inches (4429 mm) for Sedan; 161.4 inches (4100 mm) for Coupe

Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.0 inches (1397 mm) for Sedan; 53.1 inches (1349 mm) for Coupe

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2750 - 3000 lbs (1247 - 1361 kg), depending on body style and transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, typically around 3700-3800 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Likely 4-star driver, 4-star passenger (based on typical ratings for this generation)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Likely Acceptable or Marginal (based on typical ratings for this generation)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) (often optional or standard on higher trims), Traction Control (less common as standard)

Passive Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags (often optional), height-adjustable seat belts, crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Basic AM/FM radio with CD player or cassette player. Optional premium audio systems with more speakers. Aux input was not common for this era.

Driver Assistance:

Limited driver assistance features. ABS and traction control were the primary electronic aids, and often optional.

Connectivity:

No Bluetooth or advanced connectivity features were standard. Some models may have had pre-wiring for optional satellite radio.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for precise recommendation.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles

Engine Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement around 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years. Refer to manual for specific coolant type (likely HOAT).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs, 30,000-50,000 miles for standard copper plugs (if applicable). Manual will specify plug type and interval.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to cap or manual)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON III (check manual for exact specification)

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Automotive windshield washer fluid, often with de-icer properties.

Common Issues:

Rear axle bearing wear, coolant leaks (heater core, radiator), exhaust manifold cracks, interior trim rattles, potential for oil consumption in high-mileage engines, transmission control module (TCM) issues in automatics, ABS sensor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from performance cars to trucks and minivans. The Neon represented their foray into the compact, fuel-efficient segment with a focus on sportiness.

Model Evolution:

The Neon was introduced in 1994. The second generation (2000-2005) saw significant redesigns in styling and platform, offering improved safety and refinement over the first generation. The 2005 model year was the final year for the Neon in North America before being replaced by the Caliber.

Production Years:

1994-2005

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Belvidere, Illinois, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Neon, particularly in its SRT-4 variant, received praise for its performance value. Standard models were generally seen as competent but not segment leaders in refinement or features compared to some Japanese competitors.