Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, DIY mechanics, and professional automotive technicians
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Subaru WRX (earlier generations)
Performance Focus:
Designed specifically for the high-performance SRT-4 variant.
Completeness:
Offers a comprehensive repository of all service and repair information, crucial for maintaining this specialized vehicle.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine Assembly, Cylinder Head, Crankshaft, Pistons, Connecting Rods, Timing System, Lubrication System, Cooling System
Engine Performance:
Fuel System, Ignition System, Turbocharging System, Emission Controls
Transmission Manual:
Manual Transmission (Getrag® A520), Clutch, Shift Linkage
Transmission Automatic:
Not Applicable (SRT-4 was manual only)
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive System, Axles, Differential
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes (performance), Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System, Parking Brake
Suspension:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Springs, Shock Absorbers, Bushings
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion Steering System
Electrical System:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Gauges, Power Accessories
Body And Chassis:
Body Panel Removal/Installation, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Structural Components
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC System Components, Refrigerant Handling, Climate Controls
Safety Restraint System:
Airbag System, Seatbelts
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake, Transmission), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Charts, Component Testing Procedures
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair
Adjustment:
Clutch Adjustment, Throttle Cable Adjustment, Parking Brake Adjustment
Installation And Removal:
Component Removal and Installation for all major systems
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission overhauls and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with detailed diagrams, torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Type:
DOHC Inline 4-cylinder with Turbocharger and Intercooler
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2429 cc)
Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5800 rpm (2003-2004), 215 hp @ 5800 rpm (2005)
Torque:
240 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (2003-2004), 245 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (2005)
Turbocharger Boost:
Approx. 14-15 psi
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), High-flow fuel injectors
Recommended Fuel:
91 Octane (Premium Unleaded)
Engine Management:
Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) ECU with advanced tuning capabilities
Engine Design:
Aluminum block and head, cast-iron cylinder liners
Type:
Getrag® A520 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
None available for SRT-4
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios documented in the manual (e.g., 1st: 3.46, 2nd: 2.06, 3rd: 1.35, 4th: 0.97, 5th: 0.75, Rev: 3.00)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch
Fluid Type:
Mopar Manual Transmission Fluid (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
Capacity:
Approximately 2.0 Liters (2.1 US Quarts)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
Good
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags. Optional side-impact airbags for front and rear passengers (depending on trim and year).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for Platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified (MS-6395, ACEA A3/B4 compatible)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4
Turbocharger Failure:
Can occur due to oil starvation or contamination, often linked to improper maintenance. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Clutch Wear:
The clutch is a wear item and may require replacement, especially with spirited driving. Manual details clutch replacement procedure.
Engine Mounts:
Can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration. Manual covers engine mount inspection and replacement.
Vacuum Leaks:
Common in older turbocharged vehicles; can affect boost pressure and engine performance. Manual provides guidance for finding and fixing leaks.
Dashboard Cracking:
A common cosmetic issue with this generation of Neon, unrelated to mechanical function but covered in interior trim section of manual.
Manufacturer:
Chrysler Group LLC (Dodge brand)
Generation:
Second Generation Dodge Neon (2000-2005)
Srt Development:
SRT (Street and Racing Technology) division's performance variant of the Neon.
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Period:
2003-2005
Sales Volume Estimate:
Approximately 35,000 units (all SRT-4 variants)