🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Neon

Model Variant:

SRT-4

Year:

2004

Platform:

Chrysler PT/JC Platform (Revised)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Performance Sedan / Sport Compact

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking performance and customization, as well as general maintenance.

Competitors:

Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, MazdaSpeed3, Subaru WRX (all in their respective 2004 model year iterations).

Vehicle Highlight:

The 2004 Dodge Neon SRT-4 was renowned for its potent turbocharged engine, aggressive styling, and excellent performance for its price point, positioning it as a serious contender in the sport compact market.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair and maintenance data essential for accurately servicing and repairing the specific performance characteristics of the SRT-4 and standard Neon models.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models & all repairs A-Z

Specificity:

Vehicle Specific (Not Generic)

Target User:

Dealership Technicians

Estimated Pages:

Over 1500 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (Assumed, based on typical dealership manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveline, axles.

Chassis:

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

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body control modules, power accessories, infotainment, wiring diagrams.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, inspections, lubrication.

Repair:

Engine component repair/replacement (e.g., cylinder heads, pistons, camshafts), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics.

Special Procedures:

Component removal and installation, torque specifications, alignment procedures, system bleeding (e.g., brakes, clutch).

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including use of scan tools and interpretation of sensor data.

Specifications:

Detailed torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, pressure specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Physical Format:

Printed book (likely spiral-bound or case-bound for durability)

Print Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and text for clear readability.

Binding:

Durable binding suitable for workshop use (e.g., spiral, sewn)

Paper Quality:

Heavy-duty, potentially glossy paper to withstand workshop environments and resist grease/oil stains.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

GEMA 2.0L DOHC 16-Valve Turbocharged I4 (SRT-4)

Engine Displacement:

1996 cc (2.0 Liters)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled

Horsepower:

230 hp @ 5300 RPM (SRT-4)

Torque:

250 lb-ft @ 2200 RPM (SRT-4)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (SRT-4)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with turbocharger and intercooler

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended for SRT-4)

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (Refer to manual for specific Mopar or API ratings)

Oil Capacity:

4.0 Quarts (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Pink (Chrysler)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.2 Quarts (with heater)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

BorgWarner T850 5-Speed Manual Transmission (SRT-4)

Type:

42LE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Not available on SRT-4)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch (SRT-4 often upgraded by owners)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent meeting MS-9224 specification)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) (for 42LE)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.4 inches (4430 mm)

Width:

67.4 inches (1712 mm)

Height:

55.8 inches (1417 mm) (SRT-4 approx. 55.5 inches due to suspension tuning)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Front Track:

57.8 inches (1468 mm)

Rear Track:

57.4 inches (1458 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2860 - 3000 lbs (SRT-4)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3850 lbs (SRT-4)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 13.5 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4/4 Stars (Front/Rear Passenger)

ABS:

Standard (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS on SRT-4)

Traction Control:

Standard on SRT-4 (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Stereo System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional Monsoon premium audio system.

Instrumentation:

Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, and warning lights. SRT-4 features a boost gauge.

Cruise Control:

Standard feature on most models.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles (severe) or 7,500 miles (normal) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific driving conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual (typically around 30,000-60,000 miles for performance plugs, but factory plugs may differ).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for performance applications)

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent conforming to MS-5901)

Turbo Issues:

Turbocharger oil feed line can clog, leading to turbo failure. Cracked exhaust manifolds are also common.

Engine Mounts:

Engine and transmission mounts can wear prematurely, leading to vibration and sloppy shifting.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch assembly can wear out, especially under aggressive driving conditions.

Fuel Pump:

Early failure of the fuel pump is not uncommon.

Suspension Components:

Ball joints and tie rod ends can wear, affecting alignment and steering feel.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a history of performance-oriented vehicles, often positioned as 'value performance' options.

Neon Generations:

The 2004 Neon is part of the second generation (2000-2005), which saw significant updates over the first generation.

Srt Division:

SRT (Street and Racing Technology) division was introduced to create focused performance versions of Dodge vehicles. The SRT-4 was its flagship compact.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA

Second Gen Neon:

2000-2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Sport Compact Awards:

The Neon SRT-4 was frequently praised by automotive journalists and received 'best bang for the buck' awards in the sport compact segment.

Performance Value:

Often cited for its high performance relative to its price, making it a popular choice for tuners and enthusiasts.