Front and rear disc brakes, brake fluid, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, starter, alternator, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, infotainment system wiring, fuse box diagrams, relay locations
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis component repair, rust prevention, undercoating
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:
A/C system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator), refrigerant handling, heater core, blower motor, HVAC controls, climate control diagnostics
Procedures Included
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections, belt and hose inspections
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, wiring diagrams for fault tracing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including detailed component locations and wire color coding
2700-2900 lbs (1225-1315 kg), depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approximately 3600-3800 lbs
Cargo
Trunk Volume Sedan:
13.0 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume Coupe:
11.4 cu. ft.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good (2000 model year, tested with airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good (2000 model year, tested with airbags)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for 2000 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on most trims, standard on R/T
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player, 4-6 speaker systems
Display:
Analog gauges and basic digital readouts for odometer/trip meter
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on some trims
Connectivity
Aux Input:
Not typically factory equipped; aftermarket solutions available
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 to 105,000 miles (145,000 to 169,000 km) or 7 years, whichever comes first. Critical replacement interval.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), check condition
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.0 U.S. quarts (6.6 L) with heater
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Head gasket failures (especially on earlier models, though improved in later years), ABS sensor failures, window regulator issues, rear axle bushings wear, ignition coil failures, oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket.
Maintenance Advice:
Adhering strictly to the timing belt replacement schedule is crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Regular inspection of cooling system hoses and the radiator is also advised.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles)
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second Generation Neon (PL platform)
Design Changes:
More refined styling than first generation, improved interior, more powerful engines available, particularly the R/T variant
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Production Years For Gen:
1999-2005
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journal Awards:
While not winning major awards, it was generally well-regarded for its value proposition and sporty handling for its price point.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Rating:
Mixed to average, with specific model years and engines having known reliability concerns, particularly around the head gasket.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA emissions standards for model years 2000-2001