🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler/Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

2000-2005

Platform:

PL platform

Chassis Code:

PT (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Original Market:

Compact/Economy car segment, offering a balance of affordability, practicality, and sporty styling.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Mitsubishi Eclipse.

Design Philosophy:

Aggressive styling, good handling for its class, spacious interior for its size.

Target Audience:

Younger buyers, first-time car owners, budget-conscious consumers seeking a stylish and functional vehicle.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level technical information for maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, empowering owners and independent repair shops.

📋 Manual Details

Markets Covered:

North America (USA, Canada)

Region Specific Notes:

Covers models sold under both Chrysler and Dodge brands.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive, likely exceeding 1000 pages based on typical workshop manuals for this era and scope.

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical (1.6L SOHC, 2.0L SOHC), Engine Control Systems, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Transaxle (Manual & Automatic)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear, including ABS), Differential and Driveline, Tires and Wheels

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting (Headlamps, Tail Lamps, Interior), Instrument Panel Systems, Audio System, Horns, Vehicle Speed Control, Turn Signal & Hazard Warning, Windshield Wipers & Washers, Restraint System (Airbags), Electrically Heated Systems (e.g., rear defogger), Power Distribution, Power Lock Systems, Vehicle Theft/Security System, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime Warning/Reminder System, Wiring Diagrams

Body:

Frame and Bumpers, Body Panels, Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Emission Control Systems

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical circuit testing.

Repairs:

Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, adjustments.

Rebuilds:

Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and other major component overhauls.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls and in-depth diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.

Diagnostic Tools:

Mentions diagnostic procedures and likely references specialized tools used by technicians of the era.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, enabling quick access to specific information.

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing for physical copies or selected page printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Type Of Illustrations:

Exploded views, diagrams, step-by-step photographs.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Variant:

1.6L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) 4-cylinder

Engine 2 Variant:

2.0L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) 4-cylinder

Engine 2 Engine Code:

Commonly referred to as the '420A' or 'EDZ' engines, depending on specific market and year.

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 114 hp for 1.6L, 132-145 hp for 2.0L (depending on specific configuration and market).

Torque Range:

Approximately 108 lb-ft for 1.6L, 130-135 lb-ft for 2.0L.

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (specific Mopar specification recommended).

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on model year and engine.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1 Type:

5-Speed Manual (NVG T-350)

Transmission 2 Type:

3-Speed Automatic (31TH)

Transmission 3 Type:

4-Speed Automatic (41TE)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Likely includes overdrive gear for fuel efficiency.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Specific Mopar specification should be confirmed.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler's proprietary fluid) is the most likely specification for these transmissions, though earlier models might have used ATF+3. Manual specifies precise fluid type and capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door coupe, 4-door sedan.

Wheelbase Approx:

104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Length Approx:

174.4 inches (4430 mm) for sedan, slightly shorter for coupe.

Width Approx:

67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Height Approx:

53.8 inches (1367 mm) for coupe, 55.5 inches (1410 mm) for sedan.

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 2600-2900 lbs (1179-1315 kg) depending on body style, engine, and transmission.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Information available in manual for specific configurations.

Towing Capacity:

Generally not recommended or rated for towing.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (for 2001-2005 models, based on IIHS ratings which often correlate).

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (for 2001-2005 models).

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable or Good (varies by year and specific test).

ABS:

Available on most models, particularly higher trims.

Traction Control:

Less common on base models, potentially available on higher performance variants or optional.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side airbags available on some models.

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts, pre-tensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM radio with CD player. Upgraded systems with cassette or premium speakers may have been available. Manual covers audio system diagnostics and repair.

Cruise Control:

Standard on many trims, referred to as 'Vehicle Speed Control System'. Manual covers operation and troubleshooting.

Exterior Mirrors:

Manual or power adjustable mirrors. Manual covers adjustment, repair, and power mirror systems.

Power Windows:

Available on higher trims, manual covers operation and repair.

Power Locks:

Available on higher trims, manual covers operation and repair.

Instrument Panel:

Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights. Manual covers diagnostics for all instrument panel systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide precise recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 12,000-15,000 miles (19,000-24,000 km) or as needed based on inspection. Manual will specify.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum). Manual will specify for original equipment and recommended replacements.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years. Manual will detail coolant type and capacity.

Engine Oil Specification:

Likely SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, API Certified. Manual will provide specific viscosity and API classification.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on ABS system. Manual will specify.

Power Steering Fluid:

Likely ATF or a specific power steering fluid. Manual will specify.

Common Wear Items:

Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), wheel bearings, exhaust system (rust), automatic transmission solenoids, minor electrical gremlins.

Engine Specific Notes:

SOHC engines are generally reliable, but head gasket issues can occur if overheated. Timing belt replacement is crucial. Manual will detail replacement intervals and procedures.

Transmission Specific Notes:

Automatic transmissions can be prone to solenoid failures or torque converter issues. Manual will cover diagnostic and repair procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Legacy:

Chrysler has a history of producing a range of vehicles from economy to luxury, often with innovative styling.

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge positioned as Chrysler's performance-oriented brand, often targeting younger demographics.

Generation:

This manual covers the second generation (PT platform) of the Neon, introduced for the 2000 model year.

Previous Generation:

The first generation Neon (PG platform) was produced from 1994-1999.

Key Changes Second Gen:

Revised exterior styling, improved interior quality, updated powertrain options, and increased safety features.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA.

Production Years:

2000-2005.

Market Reception:

Received mixed reviews; praised for styling and handling by some, criticized for powertrain refinement and interior materials by others.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Some configurations of the second-generation Neon received 'Good' ratings in front crash tests from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).

Car And Driver 10Best:

The first generation Neon was on Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1995, highlighting its initial promise.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for the Neon during this period were often mixed, reflecting its positioning in the competitive compact segment.

Emissions Standards:

Covers emission control systems to meet federal and state (e.g., California) standards for the model years.