🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Generations Covered: Second Generation (PL) Model Years: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Trim Levels Covered: SX 2.0, SRT-4 Codes Platform Code: PL 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners seeking to understand and maintain their Dodge Neon. Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Provides significant cost savings for owners by enabling them to perform repairs and maintenance themselves, offering professional-level guidance. Key Features Ease Of Use: Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions with accompanying pictures for simplified understanding and execution of repairs. Accessibility: Instant email delivery after purchase, accessible across multiple devices. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Complete Service & Repair Procedures A-Z Model Variants: All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types Covered Page Count Estimated Page Count: Detailed page count not specified, but implied to be comprehensive. Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Downloadable Format: Digital Download (PDF compatible) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain components. Chassis: Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires. Electrical: Power distribution, lighting systems, instrument cluster, gauges, driver information systems, audio systems, starter and charging systems, comfort and convenience systems, body control modules. Body: Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts). Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication. Repair: Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including disassembly, reassembly, and adjustment. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code explanations (if applicable). Diagnostics: Diagnostic strategies, use of diagnostic tools, electrical circuit diagrams. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams and specifications. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Compatible with all PC & MAC Computers, tablets, and mobile phones. Requires Adobe Reader. Print Quality Reproducibility: Printable pages, chapters, or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Sx 2.0: 2.0L DOHC (16-valve) Inline-4 (Naturally Aspirated) Engine 2 Srt-4: 2.4L DOHC (16-valve) Turbocharged Inline-4 (Chrysler World Engine) Performance Sx 2.0 Horsepower Sx 2.0: Approximately 132 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque Sx 2.0: Approximately 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm Performance Srt-4 Horsepower Srt-4: Approximately 215 hp @ 5200 rpm (later models increased) Torque Srt-4: Approximately 245 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm (later models increased) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded (SX 2.0), Premium Unleaded Required (SRT-4) 🔧 Transmission Standard Sx 2.0 Type Sx 2.0: 5-Speed Manual Optional Sx 2.0 Type Sx 2.0: 4-Speed Automatic Standard Srt-4 Type Srt-4: 6-Speed Manual (Getrag) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic Actuated (Manual) Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-Door Coupe, 4-Door Sedan Wheelbase: Approx. 105.1 inches (2669 mm) Length: Coupe: Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm); Sedan: Approx. 175.4 inches (4455 mm) Width: Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm) Height: Coupe: Approx. 53.1 inches (1349 mm); Sedan: Approx. 55.3 inches (1405 mm) Weights Curb Weight Sx 2.0: Approx. 2700-2850 lbs (1225-1293 kg) Curb Weight Srt-4: Approx. 2900-3000 lbs (1315-1361 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver: Good (2001-2003 models tested, though specific model year ratings can vary) NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger: Good (2001-2003 models tested) IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset: Good (for some model years) Active Features ABS: Available, standard on SRT-4 Traction Control: Available (especially on performance models) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags available on some trims. Seat Belts: Front 3-point with pretensioners, rear 3-point. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Premium Infinity sound systems were optional on some trims. Display: Simple digital or analog displays for radio and climate controls. No integrated navigation or advanced touchscreen in this era. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional depending on trim level. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not typically available on factory units; aftermarket solutions required. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) Spark Plug Replacement Sx 2.0: Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs. Spark Plug Replacement Srt-4: Check manufacturer recommendations for turbo applications, typically around 30,000-60,000 miles with specific plugs. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Sx 2.0: API Certified SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate). Engine...
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Power distribution, lighting systems, instrument cluster, gauges, driver information systems, audio systems, starter and charging systems, comfort and convenience systems, body control modules.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Good (2001-2003 models tested, though specific model year ratings can vary)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
Good (2001-2003 models tested)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good (for some model years)
Active Features
ABS:
Available, standard on SRT-4
Traction Control:
Available (especially on performance models)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags available on some trims.
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point with pretensioners, rear 3-point.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Premium Infinity sound systems were optional on some trims.
Display:
Simple digital or analog displays for radio and climate controls. No integrated navigation or advanced touchscreen in this era.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically available on factory units; aftermarket solutions required.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement Sx 2.0:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement Srt-4:
Check manufacturer recommendations for turbo applications, typically around 30,000-60,000 miles with specific plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Sx 2.0:
API Certified SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Srt-4:
API Certified SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic Recommended for Turbocharged engine.
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Prediluted or Concentrate (typically Mopar or equivalent). Color: Orange.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, especially the torque strut mount, can lead to vibration and clunking noises.
Exhaust Manifold Srt-4:
Cracked exhaust manifolds on early SRT-4 models due to heat stress.
Clutch Srt-4:
Clutch wear and failure can occur with aggressive driving.
Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can lead to alignment issues and handling problems.
Radiator:
Leaking or clogged radiators are common due to age and material degradation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Context:
Part of Chrysler Corporation's Dodge division, known for performance-oriented and value-driven vehicles.
Model Evolution
Second Generation Overview:
The PL Neon, introduced for the 2000 model year, was a significant redesign from the first generation, featuring improved styling, chassis dynamics, and powertrain options.
Srt-4 Introduction:
The high-performance SRT-4 variant was introduced for the 2003 model year, quickly becoming a cult favorite for its turbocharged power and aggressive styling.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Production End Year:
2005
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Performance Recognition:
The SRT-4 variant received accolades for its impressive performance-to-price ratio, earning it a dedicated following among enthusiasts.
Ratings
Value Rating:
Consistently praised for providing sporty handling and significant power (especially the SRT-4) at a competitive price point.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its respective model years. Manual will detail specific procedures for emissions system diagnostics and repair.