🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

PL

👋 Introduction

Positioning In Segment:

The 1998 Dodge Neon was positioned as a value-oriented, fuel-efficient compact car, often competing with models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Escort. It was known for its sporty handling and affordability.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra.

Vehicle Selling Points:

Agile handling (especially in ACR trims), accessible pricing, good fuel economy, distinctive styling.

📋 Manual Details

Main Coverage:

Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain, Exhaust System

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Body Electrical Components, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Upholstery, Climate Control System (HVAC), Dashboard, Interior Trim

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Filter Replacements, Lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-based Diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and procedures, Electrical System Diagnostics

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair/Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement, Body Panel Repair

Installation:

Component Replacement Procedures, Accessory Installation Guidelines

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring schematics and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation and keyword searching. Optimized for printing.

Print Quality Suitability:

High-resolution scans suitable for clear printing of text, diagrams, and illustrations.

Ideal Binding For Print:

Coil-bound or spiral-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Recommended Paper For Print:

Durable, thick paper stock (e.g., 24 lb bond or higher) to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

SOHC 2.0L (1995cc) 16-valve I4 (Engine Code: EAR)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1995 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 83.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Horsepower Hp:

132 hp @ 6000 RPM (SOHC)

Torque Lb-Ft:

129 lb-ft @ 4800 RPM (SOHC)

Engine Variant Performance:

Some trims like ACR might have slight variations or performance tuning.

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Pump Pressure:

Approximately 38-45 PSI

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (typically Mopar orange)

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 7.0 US Quarts (6.6 Liters)

Spark Plug Type:

NGK BKR5EK (or equivalent)

Spark Plug Gap:

0.044 inches (1.1 mm)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API Service Classification SG or SH

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 285 5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

Chrysler A604/41TE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 US Quarts (7.6 Liters) for fluid change and filter

📐 Dimensions

Length:

160.7 inches (4082 mm)

Width:

66.9 inches (1700 mm)

Height:

53.0 inches (1346 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.4 inches (2650 mm)

Front Track:

57.5 inches (1460 mm)

Rear Track:

57.5 inches (1460 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,550 - 2,750 lbs (1157 - 1247 kg) depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3,550 lbs (1610 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not Recommended/Rated

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 13.1 cubic feet (371 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

Four Stars (1998)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

Four Stars (1998)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Poor (for early models without side airbags)

ABS:

Optional on most trims, standard on ACR and some higher trims.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on this model year.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point height-adjustable seat belts, Rear 3-point seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. CD player optional on higher trims or as an aftermarket addition.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4 or 6 speakers depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Connectivity Options:

Limited to factory radio features. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs (standard originally might have been copper, requiring ~30k replacement).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Mopar)

Common Wear Items:

Wheel bearings, front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings), rear axle bushings, clutch components (manual), automatic transmission solenoids.

Engine Specific:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early 16-valve engines if overheated), timing belt replacement (critical maintenance item).

Electrical Common:

Faulty window regulators, power lock actuators, instrument cluster failures.

Body Rust:

Rust can form on rocker panels, lower door edges, and wheel wells, particularly in areas with road salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Chrysler Corporation (at the time of production)

Generation:

First Generation (1995-2000)

Design Philosophy:

The Neon was Chrysler's answer to the growing compact import market, designed in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and intended to be a globally competitive vehicle. Known for its platform flexibility and driver engagement.

Manufacturing Locations:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Toluca, Mexico

Production Period:

1994-2005 (across generations)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automobile Magazine All Stars:

The Dodge Neon was named an Automobile Magazine All-Star for 1997 and 1998, recognizing its sporty character and value.

Consumer Reports Rankings:

Consumer Reports generally ranked the Neon in the average to below-average category for reliability during its production run, particularly concerning transmission and electrical issues.