Market Position:
The Dodge Neon (2002-2005) represented a significant evolution for Chrysler's compact car, aiming to compete aggressively in a crowded segment with its sporty styling, performance options (especially the SRT-4), and value proposition. This manual serves the needs of owners and technicians seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for this specific generation.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, and Mazda Protege.
Key Features:
Distinctive styling, especially for the SRT-4 variant; available in coupe and sedan body styles; offered multiple engine options including a turbocharged performance variant.
Engine System:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine management (PCM/ECM)
Transmission System:
Manual transmission (NV T350, Getrag 283), Automatic transmission (41TE), clutch system
Drivetrain System:
Front-wheel drive, axles, CV joints, differential
Suspension System:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear suspension (multi-link beam axle), steering system (power steering, column, rack and pinion)
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, ABS system
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM)
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC, exterior trim, interior trim, frame components
Comfort And Convenience:
Air conditioning, heating, power windows, power locks, cruise control, audio system
Airbags:
Driver, passenger, and side airbag systems
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component repair/replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump, alternator), transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, suspension component repair, brake caliper/rotor replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis issues
Diagnostic Procedures:
Wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, component testing procedures, OBD-II diagnostics
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, component data
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Code Base:
EKR (2.0L SOHC)
Engine Displacement Base:
1995 cc (121.7 cu in)
Engine Configuration Base:
Inline 4-cylinder
Horsepower Base:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Base:
130 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine Code Performance:
A855 (2.4L DOHC Turbocharged SRT-4)
Engine Displacement Performance:
2429 cc (148.2 cu in)
Engine Configuration Performance:
Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged
Horsepower Performance:
205 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque Performance:
220 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm
Fuel Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for base, 91 octane recommended for SRT-4)
Turbocharger Specs Srt4:
Garrett T3/T04E (internally wastegated)
Manual Transmission Base:
New Venture Gear NV T350 (5-speed manual)
Manual Transmission Srt4:
Getrag 283 (5-speed manual, heavy-duty for SRT-4)
Automatic Transmission:
Chrysler 41TE (4-speed automatic with overdrive)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF+4 (Automatic), Mopar Manual Transmission Fluid or equivalent (Manual)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (2002-2004 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (2002-2004 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Acceptable (2002-2004 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
Not Rated (2002-2004 models)
ABS:
Available (standard on some trims, optional on others)
Airbags Standard:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Optional:
Side-impact airbags (in some trims)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification based on driving conditions and oil type).
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Inspect every 30,000 miles, change every 60,000 miles. Manual: Inspect periodically, change as needed (consult manual for mileage).
Engine Oil Spec:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and API service classification).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Engine Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially on early 2.0L engines), oil leaks, potential for intake manifold gasket leaks.
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission solenoid issues, manual clutch wear.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulator failures, instrument cluster problems, blower motor resistor failure.
Suspension Issues:
Strut mount wear, control arm bushings, tie rod end wear.
Srt4 Specific Issues:
Clutch failure under aggressive use, turbocharger seal issues, spark plug fouling, intercooler piping leaks.
Brand Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing a range of vehicles, from performance cars to trucks. The Neon was a significant entry into the compact car market for the brand.
Generation:
This covers the second generation Dodge Neon (2000-2005), with the 2002-2005 models representing updates to the initial second-gen design.
Key Updates 2002-2005:
Introduction of the high-performance SRT-4 variant for 2003, revised styling cues, updated interior features, and powertrain enhancements.
Production Period:
2002-2005
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
