Segment:
Compact Performance Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a powerful and affordable turbocharged compact car.
Key Rivals:
Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI.
Srt4 Advantage:
Aggressive styling, strong turbocharged power output for its class and price point, factory-backed performance tuning.
Engine Highlight:
2.4L turbocharged World Engine (GEMA) producing significant horsepower and torque.
Suspension Highlight:
Performance-tuned suspension with thicker sway bars for improved handling.
Braking Highlight:
Upgraded braking system compared to standard Neon models.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.4L Turbo), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, ignition system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, front/rear discs), wheels and tires, driveline.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, audio system, power accessories.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, bumpers, HVAC system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, wiring harness testing.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures, system repairs, torque specifications for all fasteners.
Performance Tuning:
Information specific to SRT-4 modifications, turbocharger system, intercooler, ECU calibration notes (where applicable).
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body panel replacement.
Special Equipment:
Details specialized tools required for specific repairs and diagnostics.
Engine Name:
2.4L DOHC Turbocharged I4 (GEMA)
Displacement:
2378 cc (145.1 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 96.0 mm
Boost Pressure:
Approx. 15-17 psi (factory)
Horsepower 2003:
205 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque 2003:
205 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower 2004-2005:
215 hp @ 5300 rpm
Torque 2004-2005:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
Turbocharger:
Garrett GT17/25 Turbocharger
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Model Manual:
Getrag Getrag DDCT (or similar Chrysler spec)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Less common on SRT-4)
Transmission Model Automatic:
41TE (or similar Chrysler spec)
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, performance-oriented clutch assembly.
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) often included or available as an upgrade.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2003-2005 SRT-4, but sister models had varied ratings. Expect average for its era.
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2003-2005 SRT-4.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Often included or available, especially on later models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with premium speaker options.
Instrument Cluster:
Sport-oriented gauge cluster with boost gauge.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil quality; consult manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (check specific plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
This engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, requiring less frequent replacement but still subject to wear and potential tensioner issues.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (for optimal performance and protection, especially with turbocharging). Check manual for exact spec.
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Pink Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or specific Mopar power steering fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration.
Clutch:
Wear item, can be subject to premature failure with aggressive driving.
Turbocharger:
Oil feed line can clog, leading to turbo failure. Regular oil changes are critical.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in suspension and control arms can wear, affecting handling and ride quality.
Interior Trim:
Some reports of plastic interior components becoming brittle or cracking.
Dodge Performance:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles, dating back to models like the Charger and Challenger. The SRT division aimed to bring focused, track-inspired performance to a wider range of Chrysler products.
Srt4 Origin:
The SRT-4 was developed as a high-performance variant of the second-generation Dodge Neon, aiming to offer significant power and handling upgrades over the standard models.
2003 Model Year:
Introduction of the SRT-4, based on the Neon PL platform with the 2.4L turbo engine.
2004 Model Year:
Minor revisions, including increased horsepower and torque rating.
2005 Model Year:
Last year of production for the SRT-4 variant of the Neon.
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Volume Estimate:
Approximately 25,000 units produced across all years, with the majority being SRT-4 models.