🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Year: 1999 Codes Chassis Code: PL 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car Target Audience: Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, DIY mechanics Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier Key Features Design Philosophy: Sporty styling, engaging driving dynamics for its class, affordable pricing Platform: Chrysler JA platform 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Applicable Models: Dodge Neon (PL body style), including all trim levels (e.g., SE, ES, R/T) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, valvetrain, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system Engine Performance: Engine diagnostics, emissions control systems, tuning procedures Transmission Manual: Manual transmission repair, clutch system, gear shift linkage Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission overhaul, hydraulic control systems, torque converter, shift control Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive axles, CV joints, differential Suspension: Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (torsion beam axle, shocks), wheel bearings Steering: Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion assembly Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on some trims), ABS system, hydraulic lines, parking brake Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, dashboard, trim components, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) Chassis And Frame: Unibody construction, structural components, collision repair basics Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections Major Repairs: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, power steering pump replacement Diagnostics And Testing: Electrical circuit testing, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, vacuum leak detection Component Replacement: Alternator, starter, radiator, water pump, fuel pump, catalytic converter, control arms, shock absorbers, brake pads and rotors Air Conditioning Service: Refrigerant handling (with appropriate precautions), compressor replacement, leak detection, system evacuation and recharging Body And Trim: Door panel removal, bumper replacement, headlight/taillight bulb replacement, interior trim panel installation Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls) Diagnostic Capability: Advanced diagnostic procedures, including use of scan tools and interpretation of sensor data Electrical Schematics: Detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all critical fasteners Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content Print Quality Printability: Printable pages Image Resolution: High-resolution illustrations and diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 420A Engine Type: 2.0L SOHC Inline-4 Displacement: 1996 cc (121.8 cu in) Bore X Stroke: 87.5 mm x 83.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.4:1 Performance Horsepower: 132 hp @ 6000 rpm (standard) Torque: 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (standard) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Engine Management Ignition Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) Engine Control Unit: OBD-II Compliant ECU 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual Optional Type: 4-Speed Automatic (41TE) Features Automatic Trans Control: Electronically controlled Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification) Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 161.1 inches (4092 mm) Width: 66.9 inches (1700 mm) Height: 53.6 inches (1361 mm) Wheelbase: 97.0 inches (2464 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2700-2900 lbs (1225-1315 kg), varies by trim and transmission Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Refer to vehicle placard Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 11.3 cu ft 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: N/A (tests varied by year/model, refer to NHTSA archives for specific rating if available) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: N/A (tests varied by year/model, refer to NHTSA archives for specific rating if available) Active Features ABS: Optional (standard on R/T, available on other trims) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger front airbags Seat Belts: 3-point front and rear seat belts Child Seat Anchors: LATCH system not standard on this generation 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio Options: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player Speakers: Typically 4 or 6 speakers Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on higher trim levels Connectivity Phone Integration: No factory integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for longer intervals) Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions Spark Plug Replacement: Every 100,000 miles (platinum tipped) Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years Transmission Fluid Change: Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles; Manual: As per manual, typically around 60,000...
Premature wear and cracking of engine mounts, leading to vibration and noise
Interior Rattles:
Common interior trim rattles and squeaks
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators and motors
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and leaks in the exhaust system, especially in rust-belt regions
ABS Sensor Failure:
Occasional ABS wheel speed sensor failures leading to ABS warning light illumination
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing performance-oriented and affordable vehicles.
Model Evolution
Generation:
First Generation (1995-2000)
Redesign Notes:
The 1999 model year saw minor updates, often focusing on feature packaging and potentially some powertrain refinements.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Production Years:
1995-2000
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
The first-generation Neon was generally praised for its driving dynamics and styling, but faced criticism for build quality and reliability compared to some Japanese competitors.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports often rated the Neon below average in reliability during its production run, particularly in later years of the first generation.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Designed to meet US Federal Emissions Standards for the model year.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.