1995 Chrysler Neon

Introduction:

The 1995 Chrysler Neon is a subcompact car that was available with three different engine and transmission options. The base model featured a 1.8L SOHC 132 hp engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, while an optional 2.0L DOHC 148 hp engine was available with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. The Neon was well-received for its sporty handling and affordability, but it was also criticized for its lack of features and poor build quality.

Engine

1.8L SOHC

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, rough idle, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, loss of power, catastrophic engine damage
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil mixing, white smoke from exhaust, loss of coolant
  • Solution: Replace head gasket and resurface cylinder head
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, slipping clutch
  • Solution: Replace clutch assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Input Shaft Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy transmission, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace input shaft bearing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: shuddering or slipping when accelerating, no movement in drive or reverse
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, uneven tire wear, pulling to one side
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights, battery warning light on, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical System Short:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown fuses, flickering lights, dead battery
  • Solution: Repair electrical wiring
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working, windows stuck in up or down position
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working, temperature control not responding
  • Solution: Replace climate control module or actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1995 Chrysler Neon is a relatively affordable car with some sporty handling, but it suffers from a number of issues, particularly with its engine and transmission. The most severe issues are head gasket failure on the 2.0L engine and torque converter failure on the 4-speed automatic transmission, both of which can cost over $1000 to repair. The Neon also has a number of minor electrical and interior issues that can be annoying and costly to fix.