🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Neon Year: 2004 Generation Generation Designation: Second Generation (PL) Codes Platform Code: PL 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Sedan/Coupe Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, Mazda3 Key Features Value Proposition: Affordable transportation with a focus on practicality and user-friendliness, particularly for younger drivers or budget-conscious buyers. Design Philosophy: Sporty styling and agile handling characteristics within its class. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Features, controls, maintenance, service schedules, DIY activities, towing, safety Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 200-250 pages (typical for owner's manuals of this era) Manual Type Manual Classification: Owner's Manual Language Language Of Manual: English Format Digital Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain Systems: Engine operation and basic maintenance, transmission fluid checks Chassis Systems: Braking system familiarization, steering system operation, suspension basics Electrical Systems: Lighting controls, instrument cluster, accessory power outlets, basic fuse identification Comfort And Convenience: HVAC operation, seating adjustments, door locks, power windows, audio system basics Safety Systems: Airbag system operation, seat belt usage, child restraint system installation Procedures Included Basic Maintenance Procedures: Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks and adjustment, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement (headlights, taillights, interior) Do It Yourself Activities: Jump starting a dead battery, changing engine oil and filter (basic guide), replacing air filter Towing Considerations: Towing capacity information, trailer wiring recommendations, proper towing procedures and safety precautions Emergency Procedures: Changing a flat tire, safe vehicle operation in adverse weather conditions Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Designed for the end-user; covers operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typical of a service manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital File Type: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Print Readability: Optimized for digital viewing and printing, ensuring clear text and legible diagrams. Binding Type Original Binding Type: Typically perfect bound or saddle-stitched for the original physical manual. Paper Type Original Paper Quality: Standard quality paper stock, suitable for regular use. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code And Type: 2.0L SOHC I4 (97 cu in) - Chrysler/Dodge Neon Engine (ECC). Performance Horsepower: 132 hp @ 5600 rpm (standard SOHC) Torque: 130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (standard SOHC) Performance Variant Engine: Optional 2.0L DOHC I4 (150 hp) for SRT-4 model, not covered in this standard owner's manual. Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (91 octane for optimal performance if available) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed automatic transmission Features Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+4 (for automatic transmission), Manual transmission fluid (specific type noted in manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 105.1 inches (2670 mm) Length: 174.4 inches (4430 mm) Width: 67.4 inches (1712 mm) Height: 55.5 inches (1410 mm) Cargo Trunk Capacity: Approximately 13.0 cubic feet (sedan) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2800-3000 lbs (depending on trim and transmission) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Rating: 4 stars (driver), 5 stars (passenger) - 2004 models NHTSA Side Impact Rating: 4 stars (front and rear occupants) - 2004 models IIHS Front Offset Rating: Good (as of 2004 testing, but could vary by specific test conditions) Active Features Braking System: Front ventilated discs, rear drums standard. Optional ABS on front discs and rear discs (on some higher trims). Traction Control: Not commonly available on standard models, may be found on select trims or performance variants. Passive Features Airbags: Standard front driver and passenger airbags. Optional side airbags available on some trims. Seatbelts: 3-point seat belts with pretensioners in the front, 3-point seat belts in the rear. Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: Base AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player. Optional premium audio systems with more speakers. Display Technology: Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. LCD display for odometer and trip meter. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trims, operated via steering wheel mounted buttons or stalk. Connectivity Power Outlets: Standard 12V accessory power outlet for charging devices. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Engine Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend recommended). Air Filter Replacement Interval: Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions. Spark Plug Replacement Interval: Every 100,000 miles (long-life iridium spark plugs). Coolant Replacement Interval: First replacement at 60,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 3 years thereafter. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 Engine Coolant Type: Chrysler (Mopar) HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color. Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Repair Points: Rear main seal leaks, automatic transmission solenoid issues, evaporative emissions system faults (e.g., purge valve), power steering pump leaks, minor electrical gremlins. Engine...
Changing a flat tire, safe vehicle operation in adverse weather conditions
Technical Depth
Depth Of Information:
Designed for the end-user; covers operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typical of a service manual.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality
Print Readability:
Optimized for digital viewing and printing, ensuring clear text and legible diagrams.
Binding Type
Original Binding Type:
Typically perfect bound or saddle-stitched for the original physical manual.
Paper Type
Original Paper Quality:
Standard quality paper stock, suitable for regular use.
Good (as of 2004 testing, but could vary by specific test conditions)
Active Features
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums standard. Optional ABS on front discs and rear discs (on some higher trims).
Traction Control:
Not commonly available on standard models, may be found on select trims or performance variants.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags. Optional side airbags available on some trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners in the front, 3-point seat belts in the rear. Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
Base AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player. Optional premium audio systems with more speakers.
Display Technology:
Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. LCD display for odometer and trip meter.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims, operated via steering wheel mounted buttons or stalk.
Connectivity
Power Outlets:
Standard 12V accessory power outlet for charging devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend recommended).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 100,000 miles (long-life iridium spark plugs).
Coolant Replacement Interval:
First replacement at 60,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 3 years thereafter.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30
Engine Coolant Type:
Chrysler (Mopar) HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, blue color.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Repair Points:
Rear main seal leaks, automatic transmission solenoid issues, evaporative emissions system faults (e.g., purge valve), power steering pump leaks, minor electrical gremlins.
Engine Performance Concerns:
Some reports of oil consumption if maintenance is neglected, potential for cooling system issues if not properly flushed.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Brand Focus:
Historically known for performance-oriented vehicles and muscle cars, with the Neon representing a foray into the compact segment.
Model Evolution
Second Generation Debut:
The 2003 model year introduced the second generation, which was a significant redesign from the first generation. The 2004 model represents a continuation of this updated platform.
Production
Assembly Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Production Years Second Gen:
2000-2005 (first gen), 2003-2005 (second gen)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journal Awards:
While specific awards for the 2004 model may be scarce, earlier Neon generations received some recognition for value and handling for their price point. The SRT-4 variant gained significant enthusiast acclaim.
Ratings
Fuel Economy Ratings:
EPA estimates for 2004: approx. 23 MPG city / 31 MPG highway (automatic transmission).