Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, car enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Volkswagen Golf
Vehicle Strengths:
Affordable pricing, nimble handling, distinctive styling, practical interior space (for its class)
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive factory-level diagnostic and repair information essential for maintaining or restoring a 1998 Dodge Neon.
All Styles Covered:
Yes (ACR, ES, LE, SE, Sport, etc.)
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but implied comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic and Manual)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front and Rear), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Electrical, Lighting, Instrumentation, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Chassis Control Module (CCM), SRS (Airbag) System
Body:
Body and Frame, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Climate Control System (HVAC)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical schematics analysis
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement
Special Tools And Equipment:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic adjustments to complete component rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, circuit diagrams, component testing specifications
Engine Code:
318 CI (1.8L) SOHC I4, 323 CI (2.0L) DOHC I4 (Standard and optional engines for 1998 models)
Displacement 1.8L:
1755 cc (1.8 Liters)
Displacement 2.0L:
1995 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower 1.8L:
Approx. 105 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque 1.8L:
Approx. 111 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Horsepower 2.0L:
Approx. 132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Horsepower Acr:
Approx. 145 hp @ 6000 rpm (with ACR package specific tuning)
Injection Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane for ACR/performance variants)
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing Belt (Requires periodic replacement)
Transmission Type Standard:
Getrag 5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
Chrysler A604/41TE 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:
Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 L)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Mopar Manual Transmission Fluid (or equivalent SAE 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:
Approx. 2.1 US quarts (2.0 L)
Length:
Approx. 161.9 inches (4112 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.9 inches (1700 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.0 inches (1346 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.8 inches (2509 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100mm
Tire Size Standard:
185/65R14
Tire Size Optional:
195/55R15, 205/50R16 (ACR)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 2550 - 2800 lbs (1157 - 1270 kg) depending on trim and transmission
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
Not rated or poor (Early model, safety standards were lower)
IIHS Small Overlap Frontal Impact:
N/A (Test not performed on this generation)
ABS:
Optional on most trims, standard on some higher trims/later production
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts, rear 3-point seatbelts
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first) with synthetic blend oil
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace with oil change
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 miles (145,000 km) or 7 years (critical preventative maintenance)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common at valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.
Timing Belt Failure:
If not replaced at recommended intervals, can lead to catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Suspension Wear:
Front struts and rear shocks can wear prematurely, leading to a harsh ride and poor handling.
Ignition System:
Coil packs and spark plug wires can fail, causing misfires.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can become noisy and require replacement.
Brand Focus:
Chrysler Corporation's entry into the affordable compact car segment, often marketed as a fun and sporty option.
Generation:
First Generation Dodge Neon (1995-1999)
Design Philosophy:
Designed with input from Chrysler and Mitsubishi (due to joint venture), emphasizing European handling characteristics for its class.
Production Years:
1995-1999 (for the first generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Toluca, Mexico
