The Chrysler/Dodge Neon (2000 model year) was positioned as an affordable, compact, and sporty vehicle, competing in a crowded segment against models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Chevrolet Cavalier. It appealed to budget-conscious buyers and younger demographics looking for a practical yet engaging driving experience.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
The Neon offered a blend of distinctive styling (especially the coupe), available DOHC engines, and a relatively spacious interior for its class. Its strengths lay in its performance variants (like the ACR) and aggressive pricing. Competitors often focused on reliability (Toyota Corolla) or fuel efficiency (Honda Civic).
Key Features
Key Features:
Available in both 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan body styles, choice of SOHC and DOHC engines, sporty handling characteristics, attractive interior and exterior styling for its time.
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and factory specifications.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Adobe PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans suitable for printing; all text and diagrams are clear and legible.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF Download)
Searchability
Searchability:
Text-searchable PDF, allowing quick access to specific topics and procedures.
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane for DOHC performance)
Engine Management
Engine Control Unit:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag-designed, 260-series)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
3-Speed Automatic (Chrysler 30/31TH)
Features
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MS-90301 (equivalent to ATF+4 or Dexron III/Mercon)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Length Sedan:
170.5 inches (4331 mm)
Length Coupe:
167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
66.9 inches (1699 mm)
Height Sedan:
54.1 inches (1374 mm)
Height Coupe:
52.8 inches (1341 mm)
Front Track:
57.4 inches (1458 mm)
Rear Track:
57.4 inches (1458 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Sedan:
~2600-2700 lbs (1179-1225 kg)
Curb Weight Coupe:
~2550-2650 lbs (1157-1202 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approximately 3500-3600 lbs (1588-1633 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
Not explicitly rated for this specific year/configuration by NHTSA in easily accessible public records, but generally considered fair to good for its class at the time.
NHTSA Side Impact Rating Front Passenger:
Not explicitly rated for this specific year/configuration by NHTSA in easily accessible public records.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most trims, typically 4-wheel disc or front disc/rear drum with ABS.
Traction Control:
Not commonly available or standard on 2000 models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on all models.
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, driver's side pretensioner.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to optional ABS. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, etc.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
No built-in Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Early voice command systems were not available.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs (if equipped); check manual for specific type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for SOHC and DOHC engines. Recommended replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or 5-7 years due to potential catastrophic failure if it breaks. Manual will specify exact interval.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SG, SH, SJ or higher; SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions (check manual for climate-specific grades).
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler 50/50 Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or specified Mopar power steering fluid.
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), coil pack failure, ignition module failure, exhaust manifold cracks, heater core leaks, power steering pump leaks, automatic transmission internal failures (especially on earlier models), suspension bushings wear.
Filter Part Numbers
Oil Filter Example:
Mopar: MO-090, Wix: 57217, Fram: PH373.
Air Filter Example:
Mopar: 4667141, Wix: 49178, Fram: CA8052.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then FCA, now Stellantis) has a history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from affordable compacts to luxury sedans and trucks. The Neon was part of their strategy to compete more effectively in the compact car segment.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution Generation:
The 2000 model year represents the latter part of the first generation Neon (1995-1999) and the beginning of the second generation (2000-2005). The 2000 model year saw a significant redesign, with a new platform and updated styling, moving away from the original PL platform to the newer PG platform.
Production
Production Years:
First Generation: 1995-1999; Second Generation: 2000-2005.
Manufacturing Locations:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; Toluca, Mexico.
Sales Performance:
The Neon was a significant volume seller for Chrysler in the late 1990s and early 2000s, though sales fluctuated with market trends and competition.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
The Neon received positive remarks from automotive journalists for its styling and handling when introduced, particularly the ACR (American Club Racer) versions which were geared towards autocross and track enthusiasts. However, it faced criticism for some reliability concerns compared to key Japanese competitors.
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