🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Year: 1998 Codes Platform Code: PL (Chrysler's second-generation small car platform) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car Target Audience: DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge of the 1998 Dodge Neon Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1998: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Mitsubishi Mirage Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Affordable pricing, good fuel economy, available sporty variants (e.g., ACR), relatively simple mechanicals Manual Value Proposition: Provides factory-level accuracy and detail for maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting, enabling cost savings and better vehicle care. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Mechanical Systems, Electrical Systems, Body and Chassis, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures Engine Coverage: 2.0L SOHC and DOHC (420A, 601 variants) Transmission Coverage: Manual (5-speed), Automatic (3-speed) Page Count Estimated Pages: ~1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive factory FSM) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, engine fuel and ignition, engine cooling, engine lubrication, emission controls, exhaust systems, automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, drive axles Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels and tires Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments and gauges, wipers and washers, horn, power windows, power door locks, audio systems, safety systems (airbags, ABS if equipped) Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), body seals Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) code interpretation, component testing procedures Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair Special Tools And Techniques: Identification and use of specialized Chrysler tools, specific torque specifications, alignment procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable due to it being a digital factory manual Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, suitable for printing. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: 420A Engine Type 1: 2.0L (1996cc) Inline-4, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) Bore X Stroke 1: 87.5 mm x 83.0 mm Compression Ratio 1: 9.8:1 Horsepower 1: 118 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque 1: 120 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Engine Code 2: 601 Engine Type 2: 2.0L (1996cc) Inline-4, DOHC (Double Overhead Cam) - High Output Horsepower 2: 125 hp @ 5500 rpm (standard DOHC), ~130 hp for ACR models Torque 2: 130 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (standard DOHC) Performance 0 60 Mph Est: 8.5 - 9.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission) Fuel System Induction: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Regular (87 Octane) Engine Management ECU Type: Chrysler JTEC (often referred to by its Mitsubishi origin code) OBD Standard: OBD-II 🔧 Transmission Standard Type 1: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag A568) Optional Type 2: 3-Speed Automatic (Chrysler A604/41TE - though less common on '98 Neon compared to later models, typically found on Stratus/Cirrus, but earlier Neons used A604) Features Clutch Type: Dry single plate, cable operated (manual) Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-3/GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or specified alternative) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 162.1 inches (4117 mm) Width: 66.9 inches (1700 mm) Height: 53.4 inches (1356 mm) Wheelbase: 104.4 inches (2652 mm) Weights Curb Weight Est: 2500 - 2700 lbs (1134 - 1225 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est: 3500 - 3700 lbs (1588 - 1678 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: ★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars) NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: ★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars) IIHS Front Offset Ld: Acceptable (on some configurations, though often rated poorer than competitors) Active Features ABS: Optional on most trims, standard on some higher trims or Sport models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags (standard) Seatbelts: Front 3-point height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Up to 6 speakers available. Display: Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature. Warning lights for oil pressure, battery, check engine, etc. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trims. Connectivity Phone Integration: None (factory). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic or high-quality conventional oil). Engine Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years. Transmission Fluid Change: Manual: Every 50,000 miles (80,000 km). Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) depending on driving conditions. Spark Plug Replacement: Copper plugs: 30,000 miles....