🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Applicable Years: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 Generation Generation Name: Second Generation (PL) Codes Chassis Code: PL 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact Car / Economy Car Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Hyundai Elantra Key Features Vehicle Platform: The PL platform (shared with Chrysler Sebring Sedan/Coupe, Dodge Stratus Sedan/Coupe, and Mitsubishi Eclipse/Galant platforms in its later iterations) contributed to the Neon's handling characteristics. Diy Emphasis: Manual is geared towards enabling DIY enthusiasts to perform servicing and repairs, highlighting cost savings and tool acquisition. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Systems Covered: Introduction, Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Cooling, Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring, Engine, Exhaust System, Frame & Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transmission/Transaxle, Tires/Wheels, Body, Heating & Air Conditioning, Emissions Control Systems, New Vehicle Preparation, Component and System Index Page Count Estimated Page Count: Comprehensive (Exact number not specified, but typical for a full service manual) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission/Transaxle Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Differential & Driveline, Tires & Wheels Electrical And Electronics: Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules (ECMs), Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring Harnesses Body And Interior: Body, Frame & Bumpers, Heating & Air Conditioning, Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication, filter replacements, inspections Repair: Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics Overhaul: Engine and transmission overhaul procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complex component replacement and troubleshooting. Includes detailed diagrams and specifications for DIY mechanics and professional technicians. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac Reader Requirement: Adobe PDF Reader Print Quality Quality: High-resolution digital format, allowing for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding: Digital Download (PDF) - No physical binding Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 420A, ACR Displacement: 2.0L (1996 cc) Configuration: Inline 4-Cylinder (I4) Valvetrain: SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) and DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) variants exist, with the DOHC 16-valve being more performance-oriented. Performance Horsepower Sohc: Approximately 132 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque Sohc: Approximately 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm Horsepower DOHc: Approximately 150 hp @ 6000 rpm (R/T models) Torque DOHc: Approximately 130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (R/T models) Fuel System Injection Type: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed manual transaxle Optional Type: 4-speed automatic transaxle Features Fluid Type Manual: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (Refer to manual for specific part numbers/viscosity) Fluid Type Automatic: ATF+4 (Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid) (Refer to manual for specific part numbers) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approximately 174.4 inches Width: Approximately 67.4 inches Height: Approximately 55.3 inches Wheelbase: Approximately 104.4 inches Weights Curb Weight Est: 2600 - 2800 lbs (Varies by trim and transmission) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Good (for driver and passenger in frontal crash tests) NHTSA Side Impact: Acceptable/Good (depending on year and equipment) Active Features Braking System: Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Drums or discs (depending on trim) ABS: Optional on some trims, standard on performance models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on select trims. Seat Belts: Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player and/or cassette tape player. Premium Infinity sound systems were optional. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as standard or optional depending on trim level. Connectivity Power Accessories: Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available options. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended) Tire Rotation Interval: Every 7,500 miles Spark Plug Replacement: Approximately 100,000 miles (depending on plug type) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher. (Refer to manual for specific Chrysler MS-6395 specification) Coolant Type: Chrysler OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant (Conforms to MS-9769). Dilute 50/50 with deionized water. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 (Refer to manual for specific Mopar recommendation) Known Issues Engine Mounts: Premature wear and failure of engine mounts can lead to vibration and clunking noises. Rear Wheel Bearings: Tendency for rear wheel bearings to fail prematurely, causing noise and play. Evaporative Emissions System: Issues with the EVAP system, such as charcoal canister leaks or purge valve faults, can cause check engine lights....
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Hyundai Elantra
Key Features
Vehicle Platform:
The PL platform (shared with Chrysler Sebring Sedan/Coupe, Dodge Stratus Sedan/Coupe, and Mitsubishi Eclipse/Galant platforms in its later iterations) contributed to the Neon's handling characteristics.
Diy Emphasis:
Manual is geared towards enabling DIY enthusiasts to perform servicing and repairs, highlighting cost savings and tool acquisition.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Systems Covered:
Introduction, Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Cooling, Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring, Engine, Exhaust System, Frame & Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transmission/Transaxle, Tires/Wheels, Body, Heating & Air Conditioning, Emissions Control Systems, New Vehicle Preparation, Component and System Index
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Exact number not specified, but typical for a full service manual)
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complex component replacement and troubleshooting. Includes detailed diagrams and specifications for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Reader Requirement:
Adobe PDF Reader
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution digital format, allowing for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.
Binding Type
Binding:
Digital Download (PDF) - No physical binding
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
420A, ACR
Displacement:
2.0L (1996 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-Cylinder (I4)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) and DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) variants exist, with the DOHC 16-valve being more performance-oriented.
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (Refer to manual for specific part numbers/viscosity)
Fluid Type Automatic:
ATF+4 (Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid) (Refer to manual for specific part numbers)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approximately 174.4 inches
Width:
Approximately 67.4 inches
Height:
Approximately 55.3 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.4 inches
Weights
Curb Weight Est:
2600 - 2800 lbs (Varies by trim and transmission)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (for driver and passenger in frontal crash tests)
NHTSA Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good (depending on year and equipment)
Active Features
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Drums or discs (depending on trim)
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on performance models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on select trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player and/or cassette tape player. Premium Infinity sound systems were optional.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available as standard or optional depending on trim level.
Connectivity
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available options.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher. (Refer to manual for specific Chrysler MS-6395 specification)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant (Conforms to MS-9769). Dilute 50/50 with deionized water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (Refer to manual for specific Mopar recommendation)
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts can lead to vibration and clunking noises.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Tendency for rear wheel bearings to fail prematurely, causing noise and play.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Issues with the EVAP system, such as charcoal canister leaks or purge valve faults, can cause check engine lights.
Strut Mounts:
Front strut mounts can wear out, leading to clunking over bumps and poor steering feel.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Dodge, as a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), aimed to offer sporty and value-oriented vehicles.
Model Evolution
Generation Period:
The second generation (PL) of the Dodge Neon was produced from 2000 to 2005, with significant styling and chassis revisions from the first generation.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Key Changes 2000-2003:
The 2000 model year introduced a significantly restyled exterior and interior, revised suspension, and updated powertrains compared to the first generation. Minor updates continued through 2003.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
The second-generation Neon received generally positive reviews for its improved styling, handling, and value proposition compared to its predecessor. It was often praised for its European-inspired design and chassis dynamics.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reputation:
Consumer Reports typically rated the Neon in the average to below-average range for reliability, particularly concerning the transmission and electrical systems. (Specific ratings vary by year).