🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Year: 1997 Platform: PL 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car Target Audience: DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, owners seeking in-depth knowledge. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier Key Features Vehicle Appeal: Affordability, sporty handling (especially with DOHC engine), distinctive styling. Manual Value: Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing a vehicle that may be out of its primary dealer support window. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Maintenance and Repair Procedures Page Count Estimated Pages: Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 2.0L SOHC and DOHC (AST), Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System Transmission: Manual and Automatic Transmissions (e.g., A555, 301) Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive (FWD), Axles, CV Joints Suspension: Front and Rear Suspension, Shock Absorbers, Struts, Springs Steering: Power Steering System, Steering Column, Rack and Pinion Brakes: Front and Rear Brakes (Disc and Drum), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) if equipped, Parking Brake Electrical: Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Body Control Modules (BCM) HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System, Refrigerant Charging, Component Diagnosis Body: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim Restraints: Airbag System (SRS), Seat Belts Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt and Hose Inspection/Replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBD-II), Component Testing Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement Disassembly Assembly: Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation Specifications: Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics. Detail Level: Detailed diagrams, illustrations, and step-by-step instructions. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Adobe PDF Reader recommended for optimal display of graphics and images. Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding: Digital (PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 1.6L SOHC (420A) - some markets, 2.0L SOHC (AGS) and 2.0L DOHC (AST) were primary for North America. Engine Type: Inline-4 Cylinder Displacement: 2.0 Liters (1996 cc) Bore X Stroke: 87.6 mm x 83.0 mm (2.0L) Compression Ratio: 9.3:1 (SOHC), 9.8:1 (DOHC) Performance Horsepower Sohc: 118 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque Sohc: 124 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm Horsepower DOHc: 145 hp @ 6500 rpm Torque DOHc: 135 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Recommended Octane: 87 Octane (Minimum) for SOHC, 89 Octane Recommended for DOHC Engine Management ECU: Chrysler/Dodge Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Emissions Control: Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Base: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., A555 for DOHC, 301 for SOHC) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 301) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic Clutch Actuation Transmission Fluid Type Manual: API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (Check manual for specific fill) Transmission Fluid Type Automatic: ATF+3 (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 104.4 inches (2652 mm) Length: 163.1 inches (4143 mm) Width: 67.4 inches (1712 mm) Height: 53.6 inches (1361 mm) Weights Curb Weight Approx: 2550 - 2750 lbs (depending on engine and transmission) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx: 3600 lbs Wheels Tires Standard Tire Size: 185/65R14 (SOHC), 195/55R15 (DOHC Sport) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 4x100 mm Wheel Size: 14 x 5.5 inches or 15 x 6 inches 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Frontal Impact: 4 Stars (1997 Model Year) NHTSA Passenger Frontal Impact: 4 Stars (1997 Model Year) IIHS Crash Test Rating: Acceptable (Various tests depending on year and test methodology) Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags standard. Seatbelts: Front 3-point seat belts with pretensioners; Rear 3-point seat belts. Crumple Zones: Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio Options: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades. Speaker System: Typically 4 or 6 speakers. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional on most trims. Connectivity OBD Ii Port: Equipped with an OBD-II diagnostic port, facilitating modern emissions and engine diagnostics. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3 to 6 months (refer to manual for specific conditions). Coolant Flush Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years. Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto: Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Spark Plug Replacement Interval: Typically 60,000 to 100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 or 5W-30 (API SG/SH...