🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Generation:

Second Generation (PL)

Production Years Covered:

2000-2005

Market Region:

US/Canada

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Car

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious consumers seeking a practical and affordable compact vehicle.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Spectra.

Design Philosophy:

Designed as a stylish, front-wheel-drive, compact car with a focus on affordability and practicality, often featuring a distinctive 'cab-forward' design.

Value Proposition:

Offered a competitive price point for its class, with a range of engine and trim options.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Factory Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for this era of comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control system, engine management system (ECM/PCM) diagnostics and component testing.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, manual transmission (gearbox) removal/installation, internal component repair, shift linkage.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission removal/installation, hydraulic system, torque converter, internal component repair, electronic control unit (TCU) diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Axles, driveshafts, Constant Velocity (CV) joints, differential (if applicable).

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, bushings, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), brake fluid specifications, hydraulic components (master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, lines), parking brake system, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) diagnosis and component replacement.

Electrical Chassis:

12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers, washer system.

Electrical Body:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, seats, door locks, security system, interior trim, exterior body panels, bumpers, glass replacement.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant types, charging procedures, diagnosis of heating and cooling issues.

Body And Frame:

Frame structure, body panel removal and installation, corrosion protection, structural repair guidelines.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common problem identification and resolution.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system service, electrical system repair.

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all serviceable components.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including color codes and component locations.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on necessary diagnostic tools, including scan tools and specialized equipment.

Specification Tables:

Extensive tables of specifications for all components and systems.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for the complete overhaul and rebuilding of major components like engines and transmissions.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for any special tools required for specific repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics for clarity.

Digital Format:

Digital Download

Compatibility:

Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.

Estimated File Size:

Varies based on compression and content, typically 50MB - 200MB

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

1.6L SOHC (16V Inline-4) and 2.0L SOHC/DOHC (16V Inline-4)

Displacement 1.6L:

1598 cc (97.5 cu in)

Displacement 2.0L:

1996 cc (121.8 cu in)

Horsepower 1.6L:

Approx. 106-110 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm (depending on specific year/tune)

Torque 1.6L:

Approx. 106-110 lb-ft @ 3200-4000 rpm (depending on specific year/tune)

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approx. 132-140 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm (SOHC), 150-155 hp @ 6000 rpm (DOHC High Output - ACR models)

Torque 2.0L:

Approx. 130-135 lb-ft @ 4000-4400 rpm (SOHC), 130-140 lb-ft @ 4000-5000 rpm (DOHC)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for base engines, higher for performance variants)

ECM Type:

Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag or similar)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (Chrysler/Mitsubishi 'Ultra Drive' or similar)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated dry single-plate clutch (for manual transmission)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or as specified in manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or Mopar equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Hatchback (ES, SXT, R/T trims)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 105.4 inches (2677 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 174.6 inches (4435 mm) for sedan, 170.1 inches (4320 mm) for coupe

Overall Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 55.2 inches (1402 mm) for sedan, 53.6 inches (1361 mm) for coupe

Curb Weight Base:

Approx. 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Typically around 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg)

Trunk Volume Sedan:

Approx. 13.0 cubic feet (368 liters)

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Approx. 14.0-17.0 cubic feet (396-481 liters) with rear seats up, significantly more with seats folded

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (driver and passenger) in 2001 tests for 2-door coupe. Ratings varied across model years and crash test protocols.

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable or Marginal depending on year and equipment.

ABS:

Available/Optional on most trims, standard on higher trims or performance models.

Traction Control:

Available on select models.

Airbags Standard:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Airbags Optional:

Side-impact airbags (often optional or standard on higher trims).

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base models typically featured a single-CD or cassette player with AM/FM radio. Higher trims offered multi-disc CD changers and premium speaker options (e.g., Infinity).

Display:

Basic digital or analog display for radio presets and clock. No touchscreen or advanced navigation systems available from factory.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim level.

Keyless Entry:

Optional on most trims, often part of an appearance or convenience package.

Aux Input:

Not typically available from factory. Aftermarket solutions would be required.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory. Aftermarket solutions required.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on oil type and driving conditions).

Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with oil change. Recommended part numbers include Mopar MO-090 or equivalent.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended part numbers include Mopar 04596138AB or equivalent.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Replace every 12,000 - 15,000 miles (19,000 - 24,000 km) or annually. Recommended part numbers include Mopar 04547233AB or equivalent.

Coolant Flush Interval:

First flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API Certified Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (check specific owner's manual or fill cap)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter for 1.6L, 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for 2.0L (check manual for exact capacity).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170 or equivalent), often purple or orange.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified)

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some 2.0L engines, particularly the DOHC variants, could be prone to oil consumption if not maintained meticulously. Oil control ring issues are occasionally reported.

Automatic Transmission Reliability:

Early transmissions could exhibit harsh shifting or premature wear. Regular fluid changes are crucial.

Suspension Wear:

Front suspension components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can wear over time, leading to noise and alignment issues.

Power Steering Leaks:

Leaking power steering pumps or hoses are common. The reservoir line is particularly susceptible to cracking.

Radiator Failure:

Plastic-tank radiators can develop leaks or cracks over time, leading to coolant loss.

Door Lock Actuator Failure:

Power door lock actuators can fail, preventing doors from locking or unlocking electronically.

Interior Rattles:

Common in many compact cars of this era, interior trim pieces can develop rattles and squeaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis)

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (PL) - Introduced for the 2000 model year, succeeding the first generation (1995-1999).

Styling Changes:

Features a more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to the first generation, with improved interior space and refinement.

Performance Variants:

Introduced the R/T trim with a more powerful 2.0L DOHC engine and sport-tuned suspension.

Manufacturing Location:

Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA (Belvidere Assembly Plant for some periods)

Production End:

Production of the Dodge Neon ended in 2005. It was succeeded by the Dodge Caliber.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Berkaitan Award 1:

JD Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS) rankings often placed the Neon in the lower half of its segment during these years, reflecting build quality concerns common for its price point.

Berkaitan Award 2:

Car and Driver's 10Best list featured the first-generation Neon, but the second generation did not achieve similar accolades, indicating a less competitive position in later years.