🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

1998

Configuration:

RHD & LHD (Right-Hand Drive & Left-Hand Drive)

Chassis Code:

PL (First Generation)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1998 Dodge Neon was positioned as an affordable, fuel-efficient compact car with a focus on European styling and handling characteristics, often seen as a value-oriented alternative to models from Honda, Toyota, and Ford.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, and Nissan Sentra.

Features:

Unique selling points for the Neon included its agile handling, surprisingly spacious interior for its size, and available sporty variants like the ACR (American Club Racer). The availability of both RHD and LHD versions indicates its global market reach.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for all systems of the 1998 Dodge Neon, including RHD and LHD variants.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2000 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era and scope).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Zip/PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine management (PCM/ECU), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 5-speed), Automatic transmission (TorqueFlite 31TH), clutch system, driveline, axles, driveshafts.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS optional), wheels, tires.

Body & Electrical:

Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, climate control (HVAC), lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair & Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, body panel alignment, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting flowcharts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing procedures, wiring harness testing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearance measurements, component dimensions, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic tool usage.

Depth:

Extensive, covering from basic troubleshooting and routine maintenance to complete system overhauls and component rebuilds. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Resolution:

High resolution, optimized for clarity of diagrams, schematics, and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Text Search:

Searchable text allows for quick retrieval of specific information and keywords.

Navigation:

Likely includes internal bookmarks and a table of contents for easy navigation between sections and topics.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4-cylinder, SOHC and DOHC configurations

Engine Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1995 cc)

Horsepower Sohc:

Approx. 118 hp @ 5500 rpm (SOHC)

Torque Sohc:

Approx. 124 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SOHC)

Horsepower DOHc:

Approx. 150 hp @ 6400 rpm (DOHC - High Output, found in R/T, ACR)

Torque DOHc:

Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (DOHC - High Output)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Codes:

For example, 2.0L SOHC (ES) typically refers to the 132hp engine variant, while 2.0L DOHC (MPI/HO) refers to the 150hp variant. Specific internal codes might vary.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar OAT or HOAT for extended life, or conventional inorganic additive technology coolant).

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API Service SG or SH

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

TorqueFlite 31TH 3-speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Gearing:

Specific gear ratios vary by model and performance package (e.g., ACR models often featured shorter final drive ratios for improved acceleration).

Automatic Control:

Electronically controlled with lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy at highway speeds.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (or as specified by Getrag/Chrysler).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mopar ATF+3 (Type 7176) or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Length:

Approx. 167.0 inches (4242 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.4 inches (1382 mm)

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically between 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

NHTSA frontal crash test ratings for 1998 were generally mixed, with some good ratings but potential concerns depending on the specific test parameters and year-specific improvements.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags were standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player. Optional CD player on higher trims or as an aftermarket upgrade.

Cruise Control:

Available cruise control on most models.

Diagnostic Port:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant diagnostic port, typically located under the dashboard on the driver's side.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Conventional oil every 3,750 miles (6,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium). Original equipment may have shorter intervals.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The 2.0L Neon engines use an interference design. Timing belt replacement is typically recommended every 70,000-100,000 miles (112,000-160,000 km) or 7 years.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check vehicle placard or manual for specific recommendation).

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+3 type fluid.

Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early models), oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), power steering pump leaks, AC system issues, occasional clutch wear (manual transmission), and potential for front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).

Electrical Concerns:

Issues with window regulators, door lock actuators, and sometimes intermittent issues with the instrument cluster or dashboard lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Chrysler Corporation (at the time of production)

Generation:

This is the first generation (PL) Dodge Neon, introduced in 1994 for the 1995 model year. The 1998 model represents an update within this generation, often including minor cosmetic and feature enhancements.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in the United States (e.g., Belvidere, Illinois) and Mexico.

Production Span:

1994-1999 (for the first generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 1998 model year might be limited, the Dodge Neon as a model line received general acclaim for its value and European-inspired driving dynamics, often being praised by automotive journalists for its performance in its class, especially in its hotter variants.