🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Year: 1997 Generation Neon Generation: First Generation (PL) Codes Chassis Code: PL 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact car segment, positioned as an affordable and sporty option in the entry-level segment. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1997: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Volkswagen Golf. Key Features Neon Unique Selling Points: Distinctive 'cab-forward' design, sporty handling characteristics for its class, competitive pricing. Manual Value Proposition Manual Benefit: Provides DIY mechanics and professional technicians with the official factory procedures and specifications to accurately diagnose, maintain, and repair the 1997 Dodge Neon. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Complete official factory service and repair for all 1997 Dodge Neon models, styles, and trims. Page Count Page Count: Hundreds of pages (actual count varies by specific edition, typically 1000+) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, exhaust. Transmission Systems: Manual transmission (Type 18, Type 40), Automatic transmission (ATX, AXODE), clutch, driveshafts, differentials. Brake Systems: Hydraulic brake system, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, ABS (if equipped). Steering Suspension: Power steering, steering gear, front suspension (struts, control arms), rear suspension (torsion beam axle, trailing arms). Electrical Systems: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electrical, multiplex communication (if applicable). Body Systems: Body construction, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), exterior trim, bumpers, glass. Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt replacement. Repair Procedures: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical diagnostics and repair, body panel repair. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common faults, wiring diagrams for electrical issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides. Specifications Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format Details: Digital PDF format, optimized for download and printing. Searchable text for efficient information retrieval. Print Quality Print Quality Recommendation: High resolution scans, suitable for professional printing. Includes all diagrams, schematics, and photographs. Binding Type Binding Type For Printing: Designed for standard binder binding or spiral binding, allowing for easy page turning and reference while working. Paper Type Paper Type For Printing: Recommended to print on durable, medium-weight paper for workshop use. Individual sections can be printed as needed. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 1.8L SOHC (420A) Engine Displacement: 1.8 Liters (1806 cc) Engine Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) Performance Horsepower 1.8L: 116 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque 1.8L: 120 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended) Optional Engine Engine Code Optional: 2.0L DOHC (AGS/ACR) Engine Displacement Optional: 2.0 Liters (1996 cc) Engine Configuration Optional: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC Horsepower 2.0L: 132 hp @ 5600 rpm (Standard), 150 hp @ 6000 rpm (ACR) Torque 2.0L: 130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Standard), 130 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (ACR) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (Type 18) Optional Optional Transmission: 3-Speed Automatic Transmission (ATX - AXMP4) Optional Transmission Variant: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (AXODE - 41TE) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic actuation Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Consult manual for specific Chrysler/Dodge specification) Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (Chrysler spec. MS-9227, consult manual for initial fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 162.9 inches (4138 mm) (Coupe), 165.3 inches (4199 mm) (Sedan) Width: 67.4 inches (1712 mm) Height: 53.8 inches (1367 mm) (Coupe), 55.1 inches (1400 mm) (Sedan) Wheelbase: 104.4 inches (2652 mm) Interior Passenger Volume: Approximately 90-95 cubic feet (varies by body style) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 13.0-14.0 cubic feet (varies by body style) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg) (varies by engine/transmission/trim) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver: Four-star (for 1997 models equipped with airbags) NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger: Four-star (for 1997 models equipped with airbags) Active Features Available ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models. Passive Features Standard Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most 1997 models. Seatbelts: Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear lap belts (later models may have three-point rear belts). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System Description: Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available on higher trims or as an option. Manual controls for climate and audio. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Limited to ABS (optional). No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems available on this generation. Connectivity Connectivity Options: No factory Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Aftermarket head unit installation is common for modern connectivity. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months...
Compact car segment, positioned as an affordable and sporty option in the entry-level segment.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 1997:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier, Volkswagen Golf.
Key Features
Neon Unique Selling Points:
Distinctive 'cab-forward' design, sporty handling characteristics for its class, competitive pricing.
Manual Value Proposition
Manual Benefit:
Provides DIY mechanics and professional technicians with the official factory procedures and specifications to accurately diagnose, maintain, and repair the 1997 Dodge Neon.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
Complete official factory service and repair for all 1997 Dodge Neon models, styles, and trims.
Page Count
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (actual count varies by specific edition, typically 1000+)
Approximately 90-95 cubic feet (varies by body style)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 13.0-14.0 cubic feet (varies by body style)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2500-2700 lbs (1134-1225 kg) (varies by engine/transmission/trim)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
Four-star (for 1997 models equipped with airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
Four-star (for 1997 models equipped with airbags)
Active Features
Available ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models.
Passive Features
Standard Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most 1997 models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear lap belts (later models may have three-point rear belts).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Description:
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available on higher trims or as an option. Manual controls for climate and audio.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to ABS (optional). No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems available on this generation.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
No factory Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Aftermarket head unit installation is common for modern connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed, based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type; platinum or iridium recommended).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for specific temperature ranges).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Neon Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially on early 2.0L engines), oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, AC system leaks, power steering pump noise, occasional electrical gremlins, door lock actuator failure.
Dodge, an American automobile manufacturer, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks to muscle cars and economy cars. The Neon was part of Chrysler Corporation's strategy to compete in the growing compact car market.
Model Evolution
Neon First Gen Introduction:
The first generation Dodge Neon (PL platform) was introduced for the 1995 model year, replacing the Dodge Shadow/Plymouth Sundance. It was designed with a focus on performance and value.
Neon 1997 Updates:
The 1997 model year saw minor refinements. Engine options remained largely the same as prior years, with the 1.8L and 2.0L engines available across various trims. The ACR (American Club Racer) package continued to be an option for performance enthusiasts.
Production
Neon Production Plants:
Primarily manufactured at Chrysler's Belvidere, Illinois, assembly plant.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The Dodge Neon was named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list in 1995.
Ratings
Initial Market Reception:
Generally positive for its handling, performance, and value proposition, though build quality and some mechanical issues were noted by critics and owners.