🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Model Generation: First Generation (PL) Vehicle Years Covered: 1997-2005 Codes Platform Code: PL (first generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact car Target Audience: Budget-conscious buyers seeking practical and sporty transportation. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier. Key Features Design: Distinctive cab-forward design, available in coupe and sedan body styles. Performance Variants: Performance-oriented 'R/T' and 'SRT-4' (later model) variants offered. Value Proposition: Affordable pricing and good fuel economy, often with sporty handling. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All aspects of service, repair, and maintenance for Dodge Neon 1997-2005 models. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Thousands of pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals). Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (Downloadable) File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval. Printability: Printable pages for workshop use. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emission controls, engine management. Drivetrain: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, axles, differential. Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheel alignment. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting system, power distribution, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, body controls, comfort and convenience. Body: Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, seating. Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, inspection points. Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Repair And Rebuild: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Specifications And Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, test values. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Diagnostic Level: Advanced diagnostics, including wiring diagrams, component testing, and signal tracing. Electrical Detail: Highly detailed electrical schematics and pinpoint diagnostics for all vehicle circuits. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Early Models: EJ (2.0L SOHC) Engine Code Later Models: ECC (2.0L SOHC), EDZ (2.4L DOHC - optional on some trims) Performance Horsepower 2.0L: Approx. 132 hp @ 5600 rpm (varies slightly by year/calibration) Torque 2.0L: Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (varies slightly by year/calibration) Horsepower 2.4L: Approx. 150 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque 2.4L: Approx. 160 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Performance Variants Horsepower: Dodge Neon R/T (2.0L DOHC, 150 hp), SRT-4 (2.4L Turbocharged, 205-230 hp depending on year). Fuel System Injection Type: Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Fuel Pump Type: In-tank electric fuel pump 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Early: 5-speed manual Optional Transmission Type Optional: 3-speed automatic (early years), 4-speed automatic (later years) Sport Transmission Variant: 5-speed manual standard on performance models (R/T, SRT-4). Features Clutch Type: Dry single-plate clutch (manual transmission) Transmission Fluid Type Auto: Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Type Manual: GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 104.4 inches Length Coupe: Approx. 174.4 inches Length Sedan: Approx. 177.4 inches Width: Approx. 67.4 inches Height Coupe: Approx. 53.7 inches Height Sedan: Approx. 54.7 inches Weights Curb Weight Min: Approx. 2600 lbs Curb Weight Max: Approx. 3000 lbs (depending on trim/engine) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 3650-3900 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: Good (for similar vehicles in its class, specific ratings may vary by year) NHTSA Side Impact Driver: Acceptable (for similar vehicles in its class, specific ratings may vary by year) Active Features ABS: Optional on many trims, standard on R/T and SRT-4. Traction Control: Optional on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Seatbelt Pretensioners: Standard. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM stereo, optional cassette or CD player. Upgraded Infinity sound systems available on some trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional on most trims. Anti Lock Brakes: Optional on many trims, standard on sport/performance models. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not typically found on factory systems; aftermarket solutions are common. Bluetooth: Not a factory feature. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil, consult manual for conventional oil intervals). Air Filter Replacement: Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on operating conditions. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 100,000 miles (for platinum or iridium plugs, consult manual for specific types). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 (API certified, refer to manual for exact specification and viscosity for climate). Coolant Type: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent, typically a HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) orange coolant. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3. Known Issues Common Problems: Head gasket leaks (especially on early 2.0L...