Positioning:
The Dodge Neon was positioned as an affordable, compact, and sporty car, often targeting younger buyers and those seeking economical transportation with a touch of performance.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, and Mazda Protege during its production run.
Features Early Gen:
Distinctive styling, available ACR (American Club Racer) performance package, spacious interior for its class, and a relatively engaging driving experience.
Features Late Gen:
Improved ride and handling, updated styling, more refined powertrains, and introduction of the SRT-4 performance variant (later models, not explicitly covered by this 1997-2005 manual for all variants).
Value Proposition:
This manual provides access to the same in-depth technical information used by authorized Dodge dealerships, enabling owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance with confidence, saving significant costs.
Engine:
2.0L SOHC (AG), 2.0L DOHC (DE), 2.4L DOHC (ED), 2.0L Turbocharged DOHC (GPL) - Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, and repair.
Transmission:
Manual (NV-T350, NV-G57) and Automatic (A570, 41TE) - Service, overhaul, clutch service, shift linkage, fluid service.
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum/disc (depending on model/year) - ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake, component replacement.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link beam axle/independent - Alignment, component inspection, replacement of struts, springs, bushings, ball joints.
Steering:
Power rack and pinion - System diagnosis, fluid service, component replacement, alignment.
Electrical:
Complete system coverage including battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, power accessories, body controls, instrument cluster, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning - Component testing, refrigerant handling, system evacuation and recharge, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor.
Body:
Exterior and interior trim, doors, windows, locks, seating, bumpers, body panels, corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake, power steering), filter replacements, spark plug service, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II).
Repair:
Engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical, HVAC, body component removal, repair, and installation.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures, use of diagnostic tools, wiring diagrams, component testing specifications.
Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, differential service.
Depth:
Factory-level; covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.
Detail Level:
Detailed specifications, torque values, component removal/installation sequences, wiring schematics, exploded views.
Engine 1 Spec:
2.0L (122 cu in) SOHC Inline-4 (I4), 16-valve. Engine codes: AG (First Gen), DE (Second Gen). Approx. 115-132 hp, 120-130 lb-ft torque.
Engine 2 Spec:
2.0L (122 cu in) DOHC Inline-4 (I4), 16-valve. Engine code: DE (Second Gen). Approx. 132 hp, 130 lb-ft torque. Also a 2.0L Turbocharged DOHC (GPL) for ACR/SRT-4 variants (approx. 150-230 hp).
Engine 3 Spec:
2.4L (148 cu in) DOHC Inline-4 (I4), 16-valve. Engine code: ED. Approx. 148 hp, 160 lb-ft torque. (Optional on later models).
Horsepower Range:
115 hp (base SOHC) to 230 hp (SRT-4 variants, though SRT-4 is often a separate manual focus).
Torque Range:
120 lb-ft (base SOHC) to 235 lb-ft (SRT-4 variants).
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (higher for performance variants).
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics.
Manual Std:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., NV-T350).
Automatic Opt:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., A570, 41TE).
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic clutch actuation for manual transmissions.
Manual Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) type, typically GL-4 or GL-5 rated gear oil.
Automatic Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler/Dodge standard) or equivalent recommended for automatic transmissions. Consult manual for exact specification and capacity.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.4 inches (First Gen), 105.1 inches (Second Gen)
Length:
Approx. 174.4 inches (First Gen), 174.6 inches (Second Gen Coupe/Sedan)
Width:
Approx. 67.4 inches
Height:
Approx. 53.0 inches (Coupe), 54.4 inches (Sedan)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2550-2850 lbs, depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard, typically around 3600-3900 lbs.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 13.1 cubic feet (Sedan), varies for Coupe/Hatchback models.
Audio System:
Factory cassette or CD player with AM/FM radio. Speaker configurations varied by trim level (e.g., 4-speaker or 6-speaker systems).
User Interface:
Basic dashboard controls for climate and audio. Simple display for radio and clock.
Cruise Control:
Cruise control standard on most higher trims and optional on others.
Phone Integration:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity in factory systems of this era.
OBD Ii:
Equipped with an OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port, typically located under the dashboard, allowing for scan tool connection to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type used and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (conventional, platinum, iridium) and specific engine.
Coolant Flush:
Flush and replace every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
API Service SN, SAE 5W-30 recommended. Consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature range. Capacity: approx. 4 quarts with filter.
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: approx. 7-8 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended. Check manual for specific type. Use only fresh, sealed fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent. Check manual for specific type.
Engine Oil Sludge:
First generation engines, particularly the 2.0L DOHC, were prone to oil sludge formation if oil changes were neglected, leading to premature engine wear. Regular maintenance is crucial.
Transmission Issues:
Some automatic transmissions could develop shifting problems or leaks. Manual transmissions generally robust but clutch wear is normal.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, leading to noise and alignment issues.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older models can experience minor electrical issues such as faulty window regulators, power lock actuators, or dashboard warning lights due to aging wiring or components.
Exhaust Manifold:
Exhaust manifold cracks were a known issue on some first-generation models.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then FCA), has a history of offering a range of vehicles from performance cars to economy models.
Gen1 1995-1999:
First generation launched in 1994 as a 1995 model. Known for its distinct cab-forward design, available ACR trim for enthusiasts. Introduced in coupe and sedan body styles.
Gen2 2000-2006:
Second generation launched for the 2000 model year. Featured a softer, more aerodynamic design, improved interior quality, and updated powertrains. Continued with coupe and sedan. The SRT-4 performance variant was introduced in 2003.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured at Chrysler's Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois, USA.
Production End:
The Dodge Neon nameplate was discontinued after the 2005 model year in North America, replaced by the Dodge Caliber.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The first-generation Dodge Neon was notably named to Car and Driver's 10Best lists for 1995 and 1996, recognizing its strong value proposition and sporty driving characteristics for the price.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports ratings varied significantly by year and specific model, with some years highlighting good performance and handling, while others cited reliability concerns, particularly in earlier generations.
Emissions Certifications:
Compliant with U.S. EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for its respective model years. Manual will cover related emissions system diagnostics and repair.
