🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Model Code:

PL (Second Generation)

Generation:

Second Generation

Chassis Codes:

PL

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional automotive technicians, DIY enthusiasts, repair shops.

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, empowering users to perform complex tasks efficiently and accurately, saving on dealership labor costs.

Documentation Source:

Based on original manufacturer service documentation.

Accessibility:

Instant PDF download for immediate access and offline use.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Authorized Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel and emissions, lubrication, cooling, ignition, exhaust, engine performance diagnostics, transmission (manual & automatic), driveline.

Chassis:

Suspension (front & rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Body electrical (lighting, wipers, horn, seats), instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks), comfort and convenience, audio system, charging and starting, power distribution, engine control module (ECM), anti-theft, airbags (SRS), anti-lock brakes (ABS), transponder key system.

Body:

Exterior (doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, mirrors), interior trim, body structure, seals and weatherstripping, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).

Maintenance:

Recommended service intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-up procedures.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup and interpretation, testing procedures for all major systems.

Repair:

Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, alignments, specifications for all repair operations.

Technical Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams.

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, oil pump, seals, gaskets.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, lines, evaporative emissions (EVAP) system.

Brake System:

Front and rear disc brake inspection and replacement, parking brake, ABS modulator, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake fluid flush.

HVAC System:

A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant service, blower motor, heater core, climate control panel, diagnostic procedures for HVAC.

Electrical Schematics:

Comprehensive color wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including engine control, body control, lighting, power accessories, safety systems, and more.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Searchable PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

2.0L SOHC I4 (16-valve)

Engine Code 1:

ECC, EDZ

Displacement 1:

1995 cc (121.7 cu in)

Bore X Stroke 1:

87.5 mm x 83.0 mm (3.44 in x 3.27 in)

Compression Ratio 1:

9.3:1

Horsepower 1:

132 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 1:

130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine Type 2:

2.4L DOHC I4 (16-valve)

Engine Code 2:

EDT (Viper SRT-10 derived, limited production SRT-4)

Displacement 2:

2351 cc (143.5 cu in)

Horsepower 2:

150 hp @ 6000 rpm (SRT-4: 200-215 hp depending on year/tune)

Torque 2:

160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SRT-4: 220-245 lb-ft)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (higher for performance variants)

ECU:

Chrysler SBEC/JTEC/NGEC variants depending on year and engine

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag MD-76R)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (Chrysler 41TE)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated dry single plate (Manual)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Mopar Manual Transmission Fluid or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF GL-4)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.0 inches (1372 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.1 inches (2644 mm)

Front Track:

Approx. 58.2 inches (1478 mm)

Rear Track:

Approx. 58.1 inches (1476 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2750 - 2950 lbs (1247 - 1338 kg) depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3700 lbs (1678 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 13.0 cu ft (sedan)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

Good (2000-2002 models, specific tests may vary)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

Good (2000-2002 models, specific tests may vary)

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (standard); optional side airbags available on select trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants

Child Safety:

LATCH child seat anchor system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player, optional premium audio system.

Cruise Control:

Available cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Optional keyless entry system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic or synthetic blend recommended).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed, depending on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium type recommended).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 3-5 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Manual: Check as needed, typically with clutch service.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API certified, ILSAC GF-4 or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant, Pink (MS-9769) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Rear axle bearing failure (especially on earlier models), intake manifold gasket leaks, clutch wear (manual transmissions), power window regulators, minor electrical gremlins, some AC system issues.

Performance Issues:

Can experience oil consumption if not maintained; timing belt service is critical for 2.0L SOHC engines to prevent catastrophic failure if it breaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles).

Generation Introduction:

The second generation Dodge Neon (PL platform) was introduced for the 2000 model year, featuring a significantly revised exterior design and improved interior quality.

Key Updates During Generation:

Facelift and powertrain updates in 2003. Introduction of the high-performance SRT-4 model for 2003.

Production Start End:

2000 - 2005

Manufacturing Locations:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

J D Power Initial Quality:

While not consistently at the top, the Neon received varying J.D. Power quality ratings across its generation, often scoring average or slightly below in initial quality studies.

Car And Driver 10Best:

The first generation Neon was recognized by Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times, but this second generation did not typically receive similar accolades.