Positioning:
Performance variant of the Dodge Neon, marketed as a potent and affordable compact sports car.
Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Volkswagen GTI, Subaru WRX (though often positioned slightly above the WRX in price and spec for the era).
Performance Focus:
Turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, aggressive styling, enthusiast-oriented design.
Target Audience:
Younger buyers, performance enthusiasts, DIY tuners looking for a powerful and modifiable platform.
Manual Purpose:
To provide comprehensive technical data for servicing, repairing, and maintaining the high-performance SRT-4 model.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing belt/chain, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Turbocharger system, intercooler, fuel injection system, ignition system, exhaust system, emission controls
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gear selection, gearbox overhaul, input/output shafts, synchronizers
Transmission Automatic:
Not applicable to SRT-4 model, which came standard with a manual transmission.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, differential, axles, CV joints
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (torsion beam, shock absorbers, bushings), alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (calipers, rotors), rear disc brakes (calipers, rotors), ABS system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, horn, wipers, power windows, power locks
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, climate control components
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals
Chassis And Frame:
Frame components, structural integrity, underbody protection
Driver Information System:
Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation, electrical diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems.
Overhaul Procedures:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major components.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, etc.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on required diagnostic equipment and software (e.g., scan tools).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Audience Level:
Professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, turbocharged and intercooled
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2378cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.1 mm x 97.0 mm
Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (with overboost function up to 245 lb-ft)
Turbocharger Boost:
15.0 psi (1.03 bar) nominal
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Injectors:
High-flow injectors (e.g., Bosch 4-hole, 36 lb/hr) typical for modifications
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 Synthetic recommended (refer to manual for exact spec, e.g., MS-6395)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR6E (or equivalent, refer to manual for exact part number and gap)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Refer to manual. Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT) or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, refer to manual for exact color/spec).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact Mopar spec).
Turbo Reliability:
Early models could experience turbo seal leaks or wastegate issues. Proper maintenance is key.
Clutch Wear:
High-performance clutch can wear faster with aggressive driving. Upgraded clutches are common.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on suspension bushings, particularly control arm bushings, can lead to poor handling and noise.
Fuel Injector Clogging:
Can occur due to fuel quality or age, leading to misfires or poor performance. Regular use of quality fuel is recommended.
PCM Issues:
Some earlier models might have had Powertrain Control Module (PCM) tuning issues or software glitches. Updates may be available.