🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

200 PL SRT-4 & Neon

Year:

2004

Chassis Code Neon:

PT

Chassis Code 200:

CS

👋 Introduction

Positioning Neon Srt4:

The Neon SRT-4 was a high-performance compact sedan, targeting enthusiasts seeking affordable, turbocharged power and track-capable handling. It competed against vehicles like the Subaru WRX and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution in a more budget-friendly segment.

Positioning Pt Cruiser:

The PT Cruiser offered a distinctive retro-styling and a versatile interior, appealing to buyers seeking a unique and practical compact car. The GT model offered enhanced performance with its turbocharged engine.

Neon Srt4 Competition:

Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer ES/OZ/GT, Ford Focus SVT, Volkswagen GTI.

Pt Cruiser Competition:

Volkswagen New Beetle, Ford Focus Hatchback, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent.

Neon Srt4 Features:

2.4L turbocharged engine, aggressive styling, performance-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential (in some configurations), factory-installed boost gauge.

Pt Cruiser Features:

Iconic '30s hot rod styling, spacious interior for its size, versatile seating arrangements, optional turbocharged engine for GT models.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicles Covered:

Chrysler PT Cruiser GT, PT Cruiser, Neon SRT-4

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (Likely)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.4L DOHC Turbocharged), Transmission (Manual T850 and Automatic 41TE/42LE), Drivetrain Components

Chassis:

Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Independent Torsion Beam), Steering (Power Assisted Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc with ABS), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, Power Accessories, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Wiring Diagrams

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, HVAC System, Doors, Locks, and Security

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Tune-ups

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Procedures, Wiring Harness Testing

Special Procedures:

Turbocharger Service, Performance Tuning Considerations (SRT-4), Wheel Alignment Specifications, Emissions System Diagnosis

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, often available in digital format for ease of searchability and navigation.

Print Quality:

Typically high-quality factory print, with clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

Often spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand workshop conditions and protect against grease and dirt.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Neon Srt4 Engine:

2.4L DOHC 16-Valve Turbocharged I4 (ECC/ESX engine code)

Pt Cruiser Gt Engine:

2.4L DOHC 16-Valve Turbocharged I4 (EDV/EDT engine code)

Pt Cruiser Non Gt Engine:

2.4L DOHC 16-Valve I4 (EDZ engine code)

Neon Srt4 Horsepower:

230 hp @ 5300 rpm

Neon Srt4 Torque:

250 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm

Pt Cruiser Gt Horsepower:

180 hp @ 5200 rpm

Pt Cruiser Gt Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Pt Cruiser Non Gt Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5500 rpm

Pt Cruiser Non Gt Torque:

160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Turbocharger

Required Fuel Octane Srt4:

91 or higher recommended

Required Fuel Octane Pt Cruiser:

87 (91 recommended for GT for optimal performance)

🔧 Transmission

Neon Srt4 Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (T850)

Pt Cruiser Non Gt Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)

Pt Cruiser Gt Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE) or 5-Speed Manual (NVT350/3500)

Neon Srt4 Differential:

Factory Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

Refer to manual for specific Mopar or equivalent fluid specifications (e.g., NV T3500 requires MS-9224).

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Neon Srt4 Length:

Approx. 174.4 inches

Pt Cruiser Length:

Approx. 168.4 inches

Width Excluding Mirrors:

Approx. 67.7 inches (Neon) / 68.2 inches (PT Cruiser)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (Neon) / 63.0 inches (PT Cruiser)

Curb Weight Neon Srt4:

Approx. 3040 lbs

Curb Weight Pt Cruiser Gt:

Approx. 3180 lbs

Curb Weight Pt Cruiser Non Gt:

Approx. 2950 lbs

Pt Cruiser Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 13.3 cu ft

Pt Cruiser Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 37.2 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver 2004 Neon:

★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger 2004 Neon:

★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Side Front Driver 2004 Pt Cruiser:

★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Side Rear Passenger 2004 Pt Cruiser:

★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

ABS:

Standard on SRT-4, Optional/Standard on PT Cruiser depending on trim.

Traction Control:

Available on some PT Cruiser models, Standard on SRT-4 (TCS).

Airbags Front:

Standard Dual Front Airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional Side Curtain Airbags or Side Impact Airbags on some models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Features:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium sound systems with amplifiers and subwoofers available on some trims. Cassette player also available on some models.

ABS System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, enhances braking control during emergency stops.

Traction Control System:

Traction control system (TCS) available to prevent wheelspin during acceleration.

Diagnostic Port:

OBD-II diagnostic port for engine and system monitoring, crucial for fault diagnosis.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine type and driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, typically platinum or iridium).

Engine Oil Type Srt4 Pt Gt:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SM/SN or equivalent) - High-performance engine requires quality synthetic.

Engine Oil Type Pt Non Gt:

SAE 5W-30 (API SM/SN or equivalent)

Coolant Type:

Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Orange or Pink (MS-9769) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Neon Srt4 Common Issues:

Turbocharger seals/bearings, clutch wear, suspension bushings, ECU/PCM failures (especially early models), wastegate actuator issues, piston ring land failures due to detonation.

Pt Cruiser Common Issues:

Transmission fluid leaks, various sensor failures (e.g., O2, MAP), catalytic converter issues, ignition coil failures, power steering pump leaks, interior trim rattles, ABS sensor faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Heritage:

Chrysler, a historic American automaker, has a legacy of producing a diverse range of vehicles, from luxury sedans to performance-oriented models. The 2004 models represent an era of Chrysler's efforts to diversify its lineup and appeal to different market segments.

Neon Platform Development:

The Dodge/Plymouth/Chrysler Neon was part of Chrysler's FWD compact car strategy. The SRT-4 variant was a significant enthusiast-focused performance derivative developed by Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division, using the turbocharged 2.4L engine from the PT Cruiser GT and extensive suspension and drivetrain upgrades.

Pt Cruiser Design Origin:

The PT Cruiser was conceived from the Plymouth Pronto concept car and launched to significant critical and commercial success for its unique retro styling. The 2004 model year saw the introduction of the turbocharged PT Cruiser GT for increased performance appeal.

Neon Srt4 Production Years:

2003-2005

Pt Cruiser Production Years:

2001-2010

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA (Neon) and Toluca, Mexico (PT Cruiser)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Pt Cruiser Initial Reception:

The PT Cruiser was a critical darling upon its release, winning Car and Driver's 'Ten Best Trucks' award in 2001 and being named MotorTrend's Sport/Utility of the Year in 2001.

Neon Srt4 Enthusiast Reception:

The Neon SRT-4 gained significant praise from automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its performance-to-price ratio, establishing itself as a formidable tuner car and a credible enthusiast option.