🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Years Covered:

1994-1999

Platform:

PG

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car segment

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, DIY mechanics

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier

Neon Strengths:

Affordable price, sporty handling (especially SOHC and DOHC variants), distinctive styling

Design:

Cab-forward design emphasizing interior space, distinctive rounded styling

Performance Variants:

Availability of DOHC engines and performance trims (e.g., ACR) for enthusiasts

Value Proposition:

Offered a good balance of features, performance, and affordability for its time.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

All workshop repair procedures

Specific Areas:

Engine rebuilding, electrical system re-wiring

Estimated Page Count:

Varies based on specific model year and engine configuration, typically 1000-2000+ pages for comprehensive factory service manuals.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Instant Download (typically PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (mechanical, fuel, ignition, exhaust), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain (front-wheel drive, CV joints)

Chassis:

Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear torsion beam/coil spring), Steering (rack and pinion), Brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Complete electrical diagrams, wiring harnesses, lighting, starting and charging systems, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control modules

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior trim, collision repair information

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Component testing, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair And Overhaul:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair

Special Procedures:

Airbag system service, emissions system diagnosis and repair, clutch replacement, timing belt replacement (if applicable)

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation.

Binding:

Not applicable for digital download.

Paper:

Not applicable for digital download.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Name:

2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve)

Engine 1 Code:

132 cu in (2.0 L) Chrysler EA827/420 (related to Mitsubishi 4G63 architecture)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1996 cc

Engine 1 Horsepower:

118 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)

Engine 1 Torque:

124 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2 Name:

2.0L DOHC I4 (16-valve) (High Output)

Engine 2 Code:

132 cu in (2.0 L) Chrysler EA827/420 (performance variant)

Engine 2 Displacement:

1996 cc

Engine 2 Horsepower:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2 Torque:

133 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Engine 3 Name:

2.0L DOHC I4 (16-valve) (High Output Turbocharged - ACR/R/ES models)

Engine 3 Code:

132 cu in (2.0 L) Chrysler EA827/420 Turbo

Engine 3 Displacement:

1996 cc

Engine 3 Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)

Engine 3 Torque:

160 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)

Redline:

Approx. 6500 rpm for SOHC, 7000+ rpm for DOHC variants

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for SOHC, 91+ octane recommended for DOHC/Turbo)

Engine Code Breakdown:

The 'EA827/420' designation reflects Chrysler's internal naming for this engine family, often sharing architecture with Mitsubishi engines used during the Chrysler-Samsung partnership. The SOHC and DOHC indicate the number of valves per cylinder and camshaft configuration.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission 2:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate (manual transmission)

Automatic Features:

Torque converter, electronic control (later models), lock-up torque converter

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler MS-9037A or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-3/GL-4 gear oil (verify with specific manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or ATF+3 (MS-9224) for earlier models (verify with specific manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 171.5 inches (4356 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 90-95 cubic feet (varies by body style)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 14-16 cubic feet (sedan), 11-13 cubic feet (coupe/hatchback, seats up)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1179-1270 kg), depending on engine and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:

4 stars (1995 model year)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:

4 stars (1995 model year)

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Mixed results; the Neon was often criticized for structural integrity in earlier tests compared to some competitors.

ABS:

Optional on most trims, standard on some higher performance models or later years

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models from 1995 onwards.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts, driver side pretensioner

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard on this generation; typically relied on seatbelt routing for child seats.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player or CD player, often with 4 speakers. Optional premium sound systems available on higher trims.

Display:

Analog gauges and indicator lights for the instrument cluster. No central infotainment display or touchscreen.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most models, standard on some higher trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically equipped with standard auxiliary audio inputs. Aftermarket solutions (FM transmitters, CD changers) were common.

Power Windows Locks:

Optional on lower trims, standard on higher trims or as part of option packages.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs (check specific recommendations).

Timing Belt Replacement:

If equipped with a timing belt (early models may have used chain on some variants, but belt is common), typically around 90,000 - 100,000 miles (145,000 - 160,000 km). Critical to replace to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar P/N 05103530AA or equivalent. Avoid mixing with older IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology) coolants.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify with vehicle placard or manual)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent ATF+3.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 API certified oil. For engines prone to oil consumption or higher mileage, a 10W-30 or 10W-40 might be considered, but always check manual for recommended viscosity by temperature range.

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some models, particularly those with higher mileage or specific engine variants, can exhibit increased oil consumption. Regular checks are vital.

Coolant Leaks:

Radiator, heater core, and hose leaks can occur due to age and material degradation. The plastic tanks on radiators are prone to cracking.

Suspension Wear:

Components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links can wear out, leading to clunking noises and alignment issues.

Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmissions can sometimes experience solenoid failures or torque converter issues. Clutch wear is common on manual transmissions with high mileage.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring harnesses, poor grounds, and failing sensors can lead to intermittent electrical problems. Body control modules can also be a point of failure.

Rust And Corrosion:

In regions with salt on roads, rust can affect body panels, suspension components, and exhaust systems.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge History:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing American vehicles, often focusing on performance and value.

First Generation Introduction:

The Dodge Neon (PG platform) was introduced for the 1995 model year, replacing the aging Dodge Shadow/Plymouth Sundance.

Generation Designation:

First Generation (1995-1999)

Facelift Updates:

Minor updates were made throughout the first generation, including revised front and rear styling, updated interiors, and powertrain enhancements (e.g., the High Output DOHC engine). A notable refresh occurred for the 1998 model year.

Manufacturing Locations:

United States (Belvidere, Illinois; Sterling Heights, Michigan)

Production Volume:

Over one million units produced across all variants in its first generation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10 Best list for 1995.

Automotive Journalism Acclaim:

Praised for its handling and driving dynamics, especially with the DOHC engines, offering a compelling performance value proposition in its segment.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received average to below-average ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction during its production run, with common issues related to the electrical system and some powertrain components.

Emissions Certification:

Compliant with relevant US federal and California emissions standards for its model years, requiring specific diagnostic procedures covered in the manual.