Vehicle Class:
Compact Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, enthusiasts seeking affordable performance.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Mazda Protegé.
Design Philosophy:
Affordable, sporty styling, practical for its class, relatively potent engines for its size.
Sport Variants:
Notable for available performance variants like the Neon ACR (American Club Racer) and R/T models.
Cost Savings:
Enables significant savings on repair and maintenance costs by empowering DIY work.
Professional Quality:
Provides in-depth, factory-level technical information essential for accurate repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, specifications, and procedures for all engine components.
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, fuel system, emissions control systems, engine cooling, lubrication, and performance tuning.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions, including clutch, gearbox, and shift linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, and electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV axles, differential service, and related components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, springs, control arms, bushings, and wheel alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, and steering column service.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake bleeding, and component replacement.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, and wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, seats, trim, and interior component servicing.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, including refrigerant handling.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and systematic diagnostic procedures.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, and lubrication points.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon vehicle problems.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Detailed explanation of DTCs, their causes, and diagnostic strategies.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on required specialized tools and equipment for diagnosis and repair.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for critical component clearances and wear tolerances.
Engine Code:
1.8L DOHC (16-valve) - Mitsubishi 4G93
Engine Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1836 cc)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves
Fuel Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Horsepower 1.8L:
118 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1.8L:
130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Available Engine 2.0L Sohc:
2.0L SOHC (16-valve) - Chrysler A588 (later became Chrysler 2.0L)
Horsepower 2.0L Sohc:
132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.0L Sohc:
130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Available Engine 2.0L DOHc 2.0:
2.0L DOHC (16-valve) - Chrysler 2.0 (High Output)
Horsepower 2.0L DOHc 2.0:
150 hp @ 6000 rpm (for R/T models)
Torque 2.0L DOHc 2.0:
137 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (for R/T models)
Fuel Pump Type:
In-tank Electric
Throttle Body:
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) or Cable-Actuated (depending on engine/trim)
Manual Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag/Chrysler NTB-130)
Automatic Transmission:
3-Speed Automatic (Chrysler 31TH)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Diaphragm Spring
Transmission Fluid Manual:
ATF+4 (or equivalent specification for manual transmission)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+4 (or equivalent specification for automatic transmission)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic blend recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on condition.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium recommended)
Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000 miles or 5 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, SJ, or ILSAC GF-2)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Engine Oil Sludge:
Potential for oil sludge formation if maintenance is neglected, particularly with the 2.0L engine.
Ac System:
Leaks in AC lines or compressor issues can occur.
Suspension Components:
Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings is common with mileage.
Ignition Coil:
Failure of ignition coil packs can lead to misfires and rough running.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators and motors.