🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Generation:

Second Generation (PL)

Production Years Covered By Manual:

2000-2005

Platform Code:

PL

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, automotive technicians

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive and authoritative repair information, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.

Advantage Over Generic Guides:

Factory-level detail, specific to the Dodge Neon, covering all variations within the model years.

Key Feature 1:

Extensive coverage of all major vehicle systems.

Key Feature 2:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for troubleshooting.

Key Feature 3:

Numerous diagrams and illustrations for visual guidance.

Key Feature 4:

Inclusion of factory specifications and procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline engine variants

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and Automatic transmissions

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Body, Frame

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, electrical components, diagnostics

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Instant Download (Digital PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, cooling, lubrication

Fuel System:

Fuel injection, fuel pump, fuel tank, lines, injectors

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, sensors, ignition control module

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust manifold, oxygen sensors

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gear selector, internal components, repair procedures

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, internal transmission components, diagnostic procedures

Drivetrain:

Axles, CV joints, differential (transaxle)

Suspension Front:

Struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar, bushings

Suspension Rear:

Shock absorbers, trailing arms, coil springs, bushings

Steering System:

Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rod ends

Brake System:

Front and rear disc brakes, calipers, rotors, brake lines, ABS system

Body And Frame:

Body panels, doors, fenders, bumpers, underbody structural components

HVAC System:

Air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant charging

Instrumentation And Controls:

Dashboard, gauges, switches, interior trim

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, wiring

Restraint Systems:

Airbag system, seat belts, SRS control module

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement

Component Replacement:

Alternator, starter, water pump, fuel pump, radiators

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues

Engine Rebuilding:

Complete engine overhaul procedures, including piston, ring, bearing, and gasket replacement

Transmission Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions

Electrical Wiring Repair:

Wire splicing, connector repair, circuit tracing, component testing

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Alignment procedures, component replacement, power steering system service

Brake System Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake bleeding, ABS diagnostics

Body And Trim Repair:

Panel removal and installation, interior trim component service

HVAC Component Replacement:

Compressor replacement, evaporator service, heater core replacement, refrigerant system service

Troubleshooting Guides:

System-specific troubleshooting trees based on symptoms

Depth:

Comprehensive - from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and advanced diagnostics

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Detailed step-by-step diagrams and exploded views

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners

Special Tools:

Identification of required special tools for specific procedures

Electrical Schematics:

Full vehicle electrical wiring diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for clear printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 2.0L Sohc:

2.0L SOHC (16-valve) Inline-4 (Engine Codes: EAR, AEV)

Engine Code 2.0L DOHc:

2.0L DOHC (16-valve) Inline-4 (Engine Code: DCR) - SRT-4

Horsepower 2.0L Sohc 1999-2002:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2.0L Sohc 1999-2002:

130 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Horsepower 2.0L Sohc 2003-2005:

135 hp @ 5600 rpm (minor tuning changes)

Torque 2.0L Sohc 2003-2005:

140 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (minor tuning changes)

Horsepower 2.0L DOHc Srt-4:

200 hp @ 5600 rpm (Turbocharged)

Torque 2.0L DOHc Srt-4:

225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Turbocharged)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Pressure:

37-47 PSI (Varies by system)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transaxle

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transaxle

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

ATF+4 (Chrysler/Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (Mopar or equivalent)

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring clutch (Manual transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door coupe, 4-door sedan

Wheelbase:

104.4 inches (2652 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm) for sedan, 171.1 inches (4346 mm) for coupe

Overall Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 55.6 inches (1412 mm) for sedan, 53.9 inches (1370 mm) for coupe

Curb Weight Range:

2700 - 3050 lbs (1225 - 1383 kg), varies by body style and equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Good (Driver and Passenger - early models, varies by year and testing protocol)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

Acceptable/Good (Varies by year and testing protocol)

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models

Airbags Standard:

Dual front airbags

Airbags Optional:

Available front-side airbags on select trims

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM stereo with CD or cassette player, optional premium audio systems. Manual covers system removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting of head units and speakers.

Driver Assistance Systems:

Limited driver assistance features for this era; primarily ABS and Traction Control if equipped. Manual covers the diagnostics and repair of these systems.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity on most models. Manual covers factory radio wiring for aftermarket upgrades.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific engine oil type and severe vs. normal driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

45,000 - 60,000 miles (72,000 - 96,000 km) for standard spark plugs; 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs (if equipped).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years for conventional coolant; 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years for HOAT or OAT coolant.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 (recommended for most climates)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 US quarts (4.26 liters) with filter for 2.0L SOHC/DOHC.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4

Common Issue Head Gasket:

Head gasket leaks, particularly on earlier models and sometimes related to coolant issues. Manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.

Common Issue Motor Mounts:

Worn or broken engine/transmission mounts leading to vibration and clunking noises. Manual provides replacement guides.

Common Issue Exhaust Leaks:

Rusting or deterioration of exhaust components, leading to leaks. Manual details component replacement.

Common Issue Ac System:

Leaking AC components or compressor failures. Manual covers AC system diagnostics and service.

Common Issue Wiper Motor:

Failure of the windshield wiper motor. Manual covers its removal and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Context:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis), historically produced performance-oriented and value-driven vehicles.

Second Generation Launch:

The second generation Neon (PL) was introduced for the 2000 model year, featuring a significant redesign over its predecessor.

Key Changes 2Nd Gen:

New exterior styling, improved interior quality, updated powertrains, and the introduction of the high-performance SRT-4 variant.

Manufacturing Locations:

United States (Belvidere, Illinois), Mexico (Toluca)

Production End Date:

August 2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Street And Race Recognition:

The SRT-4 variant gained significant recognition in grassroots motorsports and import tuner communities for its performance potential and aftermarket support. The manual is crucial for maintaining and modifying these vehicles.