Segment:
Compact performance sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen GTI
Distinctive Selling Points:
Turbocharged engine, aggressive styling, potent performance for its price point
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level technical data for DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, ignition, emissions control
Engine Performance:
Turbocharger system, intercooler, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics
Transmission:
Manual transmission (T850), clutch system, drive axles, mounts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, front and rear brake components, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, components, refrigerant handling
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, mirrors
Body Interior:
Seating, dashboard, trim panels, airbags, seat belts
Chassis:
Frame, subframes, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, replacement procedures
Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, clutch adjustment, brake adjustment
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical circuit diagrams for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on necessary special tools and diagnostic equipment
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
5-star
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
5-star
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
4-star
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
4-star
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags Front:
Standard advanced multi-stage driver and front-passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front-seat side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point active-locking seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specifics)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (Timing chain is used)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-40 Synthetic (preferred for turbocharged engines)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant, blue or orange color
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Common Problems Engine:
Cracked exhaust manifold (due to heat), turbo oil feed line restrictions, piston ring wear, clutch chatter
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, premature strut failure
Common Problems Electrical:
Faulty radiator fan control module, issues with window regulators
Common Problems Transmission:
Transmission mount wear, synchro issues in high-mileage transmissions
Parent Company:
Chrysler Group LLC (formerly DaimlerChrysler)
Neon Introduction:
The Dodge Neon was first introduced in 1994 as a compact car, replacing the Dodge Shadow and Plymouth Sundance.
Srt Development:
The SRT (Street and Racing Technology) division developed the SRT-4 variant, transforming the Neon into a potent performance machine.
Second Generation Neon:
The 2004 model is part of the second generation Neon (2000-2005), which featured a redesigned exterior and interior.
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Srt-4 Production Run:
2003-2005