🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Year: 1998 Codes Platform Code: PL (Neon first generation) Chassis Code: EX (North American) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact car segment Reputation: Affordable and economical commuter car Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier Key Features Design: Distinctive cab-forward design, available in sedan and coupe body styles Engine Options: Emphasis on fuel efficiency and responsive performance for its class 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Scope: Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic information Target Audience: Professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, lubrication system, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels and tires Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, power accessories, body control modules, powertrain control modules (PCM), anti-lock braking system (ABS) diagnostics Body And Frame: Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, HVAC system, seating systems Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, circuit diagrams, wiring schematics Repair And Overhaul: Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair Specifications And Tolerances: Torque specifications, clearances, component measurements, alignment procedures Technical Depth Depth: In-depth diagnostic procedures, detailed repair instructions, component-level troubleshooting, factory specifications 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Version: High-resolution PDF Searchability: Searchable text content for quick information retrieval Print Quality Image Resolution: Clear, legible diagrams and illustrations Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 420A (SOHC) and 420B (DOHC) Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, 16-valve Displacement: 2.0 Liters (1996 cc) Performance Horsepower Sohc: 132 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque Sohc: 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm Horsepower DOHc: 150 hp @ 6200 rpm (ES/SE trim) Torque DOHc: 135 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm (ES/SE trim) Horsepower Acr: 140 hp @ 6000 rpm (ACR - unofficial rating, often underestimated) Torque Acr: 130 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (ACR) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended) Engine Management ECU Type: Proprietary Chrysler Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Optional Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (41TE) Features Manual Gear Ratios: Specific ratios vary by model year and trim, detailed in manual Automatic Features: Lock-up torque converter, electronic control Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil (check specific manual for exact spec) Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (or equivalent for 1998 models - likely ATF+3 or Type 7176) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 170.5 inches (4331 mm) Sedan / 168.7 inches (4285 mm) Coupe Width: Approx. 66.9 inches (1699 mm) Height: Approx. 53.4 inches (1356 mm) Sedan / 52.3 inches (1328 mm) Coupe Wheelbase: Approx. 104.4 inches (2652 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2600-2800 lbs (1179-1270 kg), varies by trim and options 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver: 4 Stars (1998 models) NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger: 4 Stars (1998 models) Active Features ABS: Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on certain trims Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player Speakers: Typically 4 or 6 speaker configurations Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trims Connectivity OBD Ii: Equipped with OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port for emissions and diagnostic scanning. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe duty) Oil Change Normal: Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend/full synthetic) Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (standard copper plugs) Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years Timing Belt Replacement: Every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years (critical replacement interval) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 Coolant: Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Orange (Mopar P/N 05010805AA or equivalent) Brake Fluid: DOT 3 Known Issues Engine Mounts: Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, particularly the torque strut mount. Timing Belt: Interference engine design; timing belt failure leads to catastrophic engine damage. Strict adherence to replacement intervals is paramount. Suspension: Front control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items. Rear Drum Brakes: Automatic adjusters in rear drum brakes can seize, leading to uneven braking or parking brake issues. HVAC Blower Motor: Blower motor resistor failure or blower motor itself can fail, impacting cabin...