Market Segment:
Compact car, economy segment.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Key Selling Points:
Affordability, sporty handling (especially SOHC and ACR models), distinctive styling, surprisingly spacious interior for its class.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L SOHC and DOHC), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, exhaust system, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels, tires.
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, body electrical systems.
Electrical:
Engine control module (ECM), ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control module (BCM).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, adjustment, and repair for all vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures, specifications.
Technical Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, pictorial diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, wear limits, special tool references, factory specifications.
Engine Type Sohc:
2.0L (1996cc) SOHC Inline 4-cylinder
Bore Stroke Sohc:
87.5 mm x 83.0 mm
Compression Ratio Sohc:
9.3:1
Horsepower Sohc:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Sohc:
130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Engine Code DOHc:
ECC / ECE (ACR)
Engine Type DOHc:
2.0L (1996cc) DOHC Inline 4-cylinder (16-valve)
Bore Stroke DOHc:
87.5 mm x 83.0 mm
Compression Ratio DOHc:
10.0:1
Horsepower DOHc:
145 hp @ 6400 rpm (standard DOHC), 150 hp @ 6400 rpm (ACR)
Torque DOHc:
135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (standard DOHC), 130 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm (ACR)
Fuel Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type and capacity (typically GL-4 rated gear oil).
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent spec).
NHTSA Driver Side Impact:
Good (as per NHTSA testing for similar era vehicles, specific data for 2001 Neon may vary).
NHTSA Passenger Side Impact:
Good (as per NHTSA testing for similar era vehicles, specific data for 2001 Neon may vary).
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher performance models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Front three-point seat belts with pretensioners, rear three-point seat belts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player and optional premium audio system.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC system with optional automatic climate control on some higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims.
Power Windows Locks:
Optional power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for SOHC engines (non-interference), typically 60,000 - 100,000 miles. DOHC engines are chain-driven, requiring less frequent maintenance. **Verify with manual as belt type can vary.**
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for exact viscosity, but typically 5W-30 or 10W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.2 liters) with filter for 2.0L engines.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant (pink) or equivalent HOAT. **Avoid mixing coolant types.**
Engine Oil Sludge:
SOHC 420A engines can be prone to oil sludge buildup if maintenance intervals are not followed or if incorrect oil is used. Regular oil changes are critical.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracking of the exhaust manifold, particularly on the SOHC engine, due to heat cycles.
Power Steering Leaks:
Leaking power steering lines or pump.
Cv Joint Wear:
Front CV joints can wear prematurely, leading to clicking noises when turning.
Transmission Hard Shifting:
Automatic transmissions can sometimes exhibit hard shifting or delayed engagement.
Manufacturer History:
Chrysler Corporation, later part of DaimlerChrysler.
Generation:
Second Generation Dodge Neon (1999-2005).
Design Philosophy:
Designed as a more refined and powerful successor to the original Neon, with updated styling and improved interior.
Production Period:
1999-2005 (second generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
