1996 Dodge Neon

1996 Dodge Neon

The 1996 Dodge Neon is a compact sedan that was introduced in 1994. It is powered by a 2.0L inline-four engine that produces 132 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. The Neon is available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic transmission.

People like the Neon for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of power, cramped interior, and poor build quality.

Engine

2.0L Inline-Four

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing belt failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start, metal-on-metal grinding noise from engine
  • Solution: Replace timing belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Clutch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or whining noise from transmission
  • Solution: Replace or repair transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Three-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration while driving
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from suspension, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway bar links failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noise from suspension
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim headlights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting car, dead battery
  • Solution: Replace battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks or becomes loose
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window regulator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window does not go up or down properly
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Dodge Neon is a budget-friendly car that offers good fuel efficiency and sporty handling. However, it is known for its reliability issues, particularly with the engine and transmission. The cost of repairs can be significant, so it is important to factor this into the overall cost of ownership.