🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Year: 1997 Chassis Code: PL Generation Generation Name: First Generation (PL) Generation Start Year: 1994 Generation End Year: 1999 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Car Vehicle Style: Hatchback & Sedan Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier Key Features Design Philosophy: Cab-forward design, aerodynamic styling, sporty driving dynamics Target Audience: Younger buyers, economy-minded consumers, those seeking spirited driving Manual Purpose Purpose: To provide comprehensive repair, maintenance, and diagnostic information for the 1997 Dodge Neon. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: Complete Factory Service & Repair Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds (Specific count varies by source, but implies comprehensive coverage) Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable (Implies digital format, likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Yes (2.0L SOHC & DOHC) Transmission: Yes (Manual & Automatic) Brakes: Yes (Hydraulic, ABS if applicable) Suspension: Yes (Front Strut, Rear Torsion Beam) Steering: Yes (Power Rack and Pinion) Electrical: Yes (Wiring Diagrams, Components) HVAC: Yes (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) Body: Yes (Body Panels, Interior Trim, Glass) Chassis: Yes (Frame, Mountings) Fuel System: Yes (Injection, Pump, Lines) Exhaust System: Yes Cooling System: Yes (Radiator, Fan, Thermostat) Ignition System: Yes (Spark Plugs, Coils) Emission Controls: Yes (Sensors, Catalytic Converter) Procedures Included Maintenance: Yes (Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements) Diagnostics: Yes (Troubleshooting Guides, DTC Interpretation) Repair: Yes (Component Removal/Installation, Major Overhauls) Overhaul: Yes (Engine, Transmission) Rebuilding: Yes (Specific Components) Specifications Data: Yes (Torque Specs, Clearances, Gaps) Wiring Diagrams: Yes (Comprehensive) Alignment: Yes (Wheel Alignment Specs) Troubleshooting Charts: Yes Diagnostics Flowcharts: Yes Technical Depth Depth: Full Factory Level Coverage Detail: Detailed procedures, diagnostic techniques, specifications, and diagrams 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF (Likely, for downloadable format) Print Quality Printability: Printable (User can print specific pages or the entire manual) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: 420A Engine Type 1: 2.0L DOHC I4 (Chrysler design, Mitsubishi block) Displacement 1: 1996 cc Bore X Stroke 1: 85.0 mm x 88.0 mm Compression Ratio 1: 9.8:1 Horsepower 1: 150 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque 1: 135 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code 2: 1.8L & 2.0L SOHC (older Chrysler design, later replaced by 2.0L DOHC in some trims) Engine Type 2: 2.0L SOHC I4 Horsepower 2: 118 hp (SOHC) Torque 2: 124 lb-ft (SOHC) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) Fuel Pump Type: In-tank Electric 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type Optional: 3-Speed Automatic (A500/41TE variant) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic Actuated Transmission Fluid Type Auto: ATF+3 (or equivalent DEXRON-III) Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto: Approx. 7.7 Quarts (1.9 Gallons) for complete refill 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 104.4 inches Length: 174.4 inches (Sedan) / 161.9 inches (Hatchback) Width: 67.4 inches Height: 53.0 inches (Sedan) / 53.6 inches (Hatchback) Weights Curb Weight Min: Approx. 2650 lbs Curb Weight Max: Approx. 2850 lbs Cargo Cargo Volume Trunk: Approx. 12.4 cu ft (Sedan) Cargo Volume Hatchback: Approx. 23.7 cu ft (rear seats up) Wheels Tires Wheelbase Std: 104.4 in Tire Size Std: 185/65R14 Wheel Size Std: 14 x 5.5 inches Bolt Pattern: 4x100 Tire Size Sport: 195/55R15 (optional/sport trims) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: Not rated or 3-star (early models) / 4-star (later models, varying sources) NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger: Not rated or 3-star (early models) / 4-star (later models, varying sources) IIHS Frontal Offset: Acceptable (for some model years) Active Features ABS: Optional (standard on certain trims/later models) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Front Airbags Seatbelts: Front Pretensioner Seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM Stereo Cassette (CD player optional on higher trims) Speakers: 4-6 speaker configurations depending on trim Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trims Connectivity Aux Input: N/A (Pre-dates widespread auxiliary inputs) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty, synthetic oil recommended) Air Filter Replacement: 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions Spark Plug Replacement: 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, platinum recommended) Coolant Flush: 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years Timing Belt Replacement: 90,000 - 100,000 miles (Critical for DOHC engine to prevent catastrophic failure) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 (API Certified) Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.5 Quarts (with filter) Coolant Type: Chrysler HOAT (50/50 mix with distilled water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Problem 1: Timing belt failure on DOHC engines if not replaced on schedule. Common Problem 2: Clutch wear and master/slave cylinder issues (manual transmission). Common Problem 3: Engine oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket. Common...