High-performance variant of the Dodge Neon, positioned as an affordable tuner car with a focus on turbocharged power and agile handling. Competed in the compact sport sedan segment.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (though the SRT-4 was typically priced lower), Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI.
Key Features
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on turbocharged power, sporty suspension tuning, and aggressive styling.
Tuning Potential:
Designed with aftermarket tuning in mind, a popular platform for modifications.
Manual Value Proposition
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, significantly reducing labor costs at dealerships or independent shops.
Diagnostic Capability:
Provides detailed diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting trees, empowering owners to identify and fix issues efficiently.
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and assembly procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text content
Printability:
Printable pages
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution digital scans of original factory documentation
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
GEMA (World Engine)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2429 cc)
Aspiration:
Turbocharged and Intercooled
Valve Train:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 valves
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 100.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.1:1
Performance
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Redline:
6000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injectors
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Turbocharger Model:
Garrett GT17 Turbocharger (or similar Mopar-specific variant)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (Refer to manual for exact Mopar specification)
Refer to manual for specific gear ratios (often sport-tuned)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for exact Mopar specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.0 Liters (2.1 Quarts)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
174.1 inches (4422 mm)
Width:
67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
55.0 inches (1397 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.0 inches (2642 mm)
Front Track:
58.5 inches (1486 mm)
Rear Track:
58.7 inches (1491 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
2970 lbs (1347 kg) (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
13.6 cubic feet (approx.)
Wheels And Tires
Wheel Size:
17 x 7.0 inches
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 100 mm
Tire Size:
215/45ZR17 (Performance oriented)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not directly rated for SRT-4 specifically, but general Neon ratings apply.
IIHS Front Offset:
Refer to IIHS archives for specific crash test data on the PT generation Neon.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Typically a factory AM/FM/CD player, potentially with premium speaker options depending on trim.
Gauges:
Includes boost gauge, oil pressure gauge (optional on some models), and tachometer essential for performance driving.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Connectivity
OBD Ii:
OBD-II compliant for diagnostic scanning and emissions testing.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, platinum/iridium recommended).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles, especially under spirited driving.
Known Issues
Turbo Lag Slipping:
Some owners report turbo lag or slipping, often related to boost leaks, wastegate issues, or clutch wear. Manual specifies turbocharger inspection procedures.
Clutch Wear:
The clutch can wear faster than average, particularly with aggressive driving. Manual covers clutch inspection and replacement procedures.
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration. Manual details inspection and replacement of engine mounts.
Fuel Injector Clogging:
Fuel injectors can become clogged, affecting performance. Manual includes injector testing and cleaning procedures.
Maintenance Procedures
Timing Belt Replacement:
Refer to manual for interval and procedure (usually around 60,000-100,000 miles). This is a critical maintenance item.
Brakes:
Manual covers inspection and replacement of brake pads, rotors, fluid, and calipers.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Performance:
Dodge has a long history of performance vehicles, from muscle cars to modern performance sedans and coupes. The SRT (Street & Racing Technology) division was established to focus on these high-performance variants.
Model Evolution
Neon Generations:
The Neon was originally introduced by Chrysler in 1994. The SRT-4 is based on the second generation (PT chassis) Neon, produced from 2000-2005. The SRT-4 variant debuted for the 2003 model year.
Srt4 Introduction:
Developed by Chrysler's SRT division, the Neon SRT-4 was designed to be a potent, affordable performance car, transforming the mainstream Neon into a track-capable street machine.
Production
Production Years Srt4:
2003-2005
Manufacturing Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA (Same as standard Neon)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Popular Mechanics:
Awarded 'All-Star' in the affordable performance category by Popular Mechanics magazine.
Car And Driver:
Frequently cited in comparison tests for its performance-per-dollar value.