🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Year: 1997 Body Style: Compact Car Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Market Orientation: Right-Hand Drive (RHD) & Left-Hand Drive (LHD) Codes Platform Code: PL (Neon/Stratus/Breeze) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 1997 Dodge Neon was part of Chrysler's compact car offering, designed as a budget-friendly and fuel-efficient vehicle with a focus on sporty handling and a youthful appeal. It competed against established Japanese and American compacts. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Nissan Sentra. Key Features Design Philosophy: Cab-forward design for interior space, lightweight construction, independent suspension for improved handling. Manual Value Proposition: This factory service manual provides in-depth, official technical information critical for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the 1997 Dodge Neon, ensuring proper service procedures are followed. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 1997 Dodge Neon (RHD & LHD Models) Included Sections: Lubrication and Maintenance, Suspension, Differential and Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling System, Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel and Systems, Audio System, Chassis, Frame, Body, Emissions Control, Fuel System, Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Transmission, HVAC System, Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Troubleshooting Page Count Estimated Page Count: ~1000-1500 Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Print (likely) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Cooling System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear, ABS), Differential, Driveline, Wheels, Tires Electrical: Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrument Panel, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams, ECU Diagnostics Body: Body Panel Repair, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Exterior Lighting, Bumpers, Hood, Trunk Emissions: Emissions Control Systems, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), EGR, EVAP Procedures Included Maintenance: Lubrication, Fluid Changes (Engine Oil, Transmission Fluid, Coolant, Brake Fluid), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Adjustments, Battery Testing, Tire Rotation Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing Repair: Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Replacement Diagnostics: On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II), Scan Tool Procedures, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair procedures, and component specifications for all major vehicle systems. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: Printed manual Print Quality Quality: Professional factory-grade printing, clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding: Likely Spiral-bound or Perfect-bound for ease of use in a workshop environment. Paper Type Paper: Durable paper stock suitable for workshop conditions. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: A527 (based on Chrysler's ECC/SOHC engines) Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) Displacement: 2.0 Liters (1996 cc) Bore X Stroke: 87.5 mm x 83.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.8:1 Performance Horsepower: 113 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Fuel System Induction: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Fuel Pump Pressure: 37-43 PSI (255-297 kPa) Engine Management ECM Type: Chrysler NGC (Next Generation Controller) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: 3-Speed Automatic Transmission Features Manual Fluid Type: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil Automatic Fluid Type: Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 101.3 inches (2573 mm) Length: 171.5 inches (4356 mm) Width: 66.9 inches (1700 mm) Height: 53.0 inches (1346 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1180-1270 kg), depending on trim and transmission. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: 4 stars (1997 Model Year) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: 4 stars (1997 Model Year) Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags Seatbelts: Three-point front seat belts, Rear seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configuration. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on higher trim levels. Connectivity Hud: Not applicable. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Engine Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) with standard plugs, or 100,000 miles with Platinum. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (or SAE 10W-30 for temperatures below 0°F/-18°C) Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change Coolant Type: Chrysler Type MS-9769 (50/50 mix with distilled water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Problems: Head gasket leaks (especially early models), coil pack failure, interior trim fitment issues, power window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor issues, occasional ECU failures. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Parent Company: Chrysler Corporation Model Evolution Generation Start: First Generation (1995-1999) 1997 Updates: The 1997 model received...