Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Chrysler enthusiasts.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential, detailed information to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Chrysler Neon efficiently and accurately.
Competitor Manuals:
Haynes, Chilton, and factory service manuals; this manual aims for equivalent or greater detail.
Comprehensiveness:
Covers all major systems and components for the specified model years.
Detail Level:
Offers in-depth repair procedures, diagnostic strategies, and technical specifications.
Diagram Reliance:
Utilizes diagrams, illustrations, and schematics to clarify complex procedures.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine construction, disassembly, assembly, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belt/chain, valve train.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (MPI), ignition system, emissions control systems (EGR, PCV, EVAP), sensors, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), PCM operation.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox operation, disassembly, assembly, synchromesh, shifter mechanisms, specific gear ratios.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transaxle operation, hydraulic control, torque converter, valve body, disassembly, assembly, fluid specifications, shift control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, CV axles, drive shafts, wheel bearings, differential operation.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, anti-roll bars), wheel alignment specifications, steering system (rack and pinion).
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic components (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), parking brake, ABS system (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, bumpers, glass, structural components, corrosion protection.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, blower motor, HVAC controls, climate control diagnostics.
Basic Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common symptoms, identifying causes of poor performance, electrical gremlins, and mechanical issues.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls, steering system repairs.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and diagnostic scanners; interpreting wiring diagrams for fault finding.
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing components like alternators, starters, fuel pumps, radiators, water pumps, ignition coils, and more.
Body And Interior Repair:
Door lock mechanisms, window regulators, seat adjustments, trim panel removal/installation.
Diagnostics And Testing:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, test procedures, specifications for key components, and interpretation of diagnostic codes.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for the complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major mechanical components like engines and transmissions.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise torque specifications, clearance measurements, alignment angles, and other critical tolerances for engine, chassis, and brake components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams covering all electrical circuits, including power distribution, grounds, and component connections.
Engine Code 1:
2.0L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) I4
Engine Code 2:
2.0L DOHC (Double Overhead Cam) 'Viper' I4 (High Output)
Engine Code 3:
2.0L DOHC Turbocharged I4 (ACR models)
Horsepower Sohc 115:
Approximately 115-132 hp (depending on year and exact configuration)
Torque Sohc:
Approximately 125-135 lb-ft
Horsepower DOHc:
Approximately 140-150 hp
Torque DOHc:
Approximately 130-140 lb-ft
Horsepower DOHc Turbo:
Approximately 185-210 hp (Turbocharged)
Torque DOHc Turbo:
Approximately 170-200 lb-ft (Turbocharged)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for SOHC, premium may be recommended for DOHC/Turbo)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs.
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 60,000-100,000 miles (interference engine, failure causes significant damage).
Engine Oil:
API SG, SH or SJ certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Coolant:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, green type) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine and transmission mounts, leading to vibration and noise.
Timing Belt:
Stretch and wear, requiring strict adherence to replacement intervals.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings; strut failure is common.
Radiator And Cooling System:
Plastic end tanks on radiators prone to cracking; water pump leaks.
Electrical Gremlins:
Issues with door locks, power windows, and dashboard warning lights due to wiring harness problems or component failures.
Intake Manifold Gasket:
On some DOHC engines, the composite intake manifold gasket can fail, causing vacuum leaks.