Positioning:
Entry-level compact car, known for affordability and sporty handling, particularly with the SRT-4 variant.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Design Philosophy:
Focus on maximizing interior space within a compact footprint, often with a distinct, somewhat quirky styling.
Performance Variants:
Included the high-performance SRT-4 model (2003-2005) with a turbocharged engine, enhancing its market appeal.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (NV1500, NV3500), Automatic transmission (41TE/AE)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, CV axles, differential
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, power steering system
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control modules, infotainment, sensors
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, climate control panel
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, frame and unibody structure
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical schematics
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, component replacement, brake system repair, suspension repair
Installation Adjustment:
Component installation, alignment procedures, component adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and component-level diagnostics.
Engine Type Base:
2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve) Sirius Engine
Horsepower Base:
132 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Base:
130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Type Performance:
2.4L DOHC Turbocharged I4 (16-valve) World Engine
Engine Code Performance:
EDV (SRT-4)
Horsepower Performance:
205-230 hp @ 5300-5800 rpm (model dependent)
Torque Performance:
250-260 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (model dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum (91 octane recommended for SRT-4)
ECU Type:
Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar, depending on year and emissions package.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual (NV1500/NV3500)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (41TE/AE)
Automatic Features:
Overdrive, torque converter lock-up.
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios vary by transmission model; details provided in manual.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear lubricant (API GL-4).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.5 inches (1359 mm) (Coupe) / 55.7 inches (1415 mm) (Sedan)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg) depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, specified in the manual.
Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:
5 x 100 mm
Standard Tire Size:
195/60R15 or 205/50R16 (depending on trim and year)
NHTSA Front Impact:
The NHTSA frontal crash test ratings varied across the model years and body styles. Refer to specific year reports for precise data.
IIHS Ratings:
The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings generally showed average to good performance for its class, with some improvements over the generation. Consult IIHS archives for detailed reports.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most trims.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger. Side airbags were optional on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point seat belts for rear outboard occupants.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (standard copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-5 years, using approved coolant.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) HOAT coolant, blue or Mopar HOAT, or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid.
Engine Oil Sludge:
Early 2.0L engines (especially with infrequent oil changes) were susceptible to oil sludge buildup; regular maintenance is crucial.
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmissions can sometimes experience hard shifting or delayed engagement; fluid and filter changes are important.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension components, particularly ball joints and tie rod ends, can wear out over time due to road conditions.
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners report minor electrical issues, such as instrument cluster problems or sensor failures, often addressed by updated wiring or module replacements.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic end tanks on radiators can degrade over time, leading to leaks.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler).
Generation Change:
The 2000-2005 models represent the second generation of the Dodge Neon, featuring revised styling, improved chassis, and updated powertrains.
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Toluca, Mexico.
Generation Production Years:
2000-2005
