1997 Plymouth Neon
1997 Plymouth Neon
The 1997 Plymouth Neon is a compact sedan that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produced 132 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder was also available, which produced 150 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic transmission.
The Neon was praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling. However, it was also criticized for its cramped interior, lack of features, and poor build quality.
Engine
2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder
Overheating: Description/Symptoms: The engine overheats, causing the temperature gauge to rise to the red zone. The engine may also stall or lose power. Solution: Replace the thermostat or water pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
2.4-Liter Four-Cylinder
Blown Head Gasket: Description/Symptoms: The head gasket fails, causing coolant and oil to leak into the combustion chambers. This can lead to overheating, engine damage, and poor performance. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Five-Speed Manual Transmission: Shifting Problems: Description/Symptoms: The transmission is difficult to shift into or out of gear, or it may pop out of gear while driving. Solution: Replace the shift linkage or transmission synchronizers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ Recalls: None Found
Three-Speed Automatic Transmission: Slipping Transmission: Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips or hesitates when shifting gears. Solution: Replace the transmission filter and fluid, or rebuild the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Front Control Arm Bushings: Worn Bushings: Description/Symptoms: The bushings in the front control arms wear out, causing clunking or squeaking noises, as well as poor handling. Solution: Replace the control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Electrical Faults: Description/Symptoms: Various electrical problems, such as flickering lights, dead batteries, and inoperative gauges, can occur due to faulty wiring or electrical components. Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific electrical fault. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Hatchback Release: Description/Symptoms: The hatchback release fails, preventing the hatchback from being opened. Solution: Replace the hatchback release mechanism. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+ Recalls: None Found
Interior
Seat Belts: Description/Symptoms: The seat belts do not retract properly or lock into place. Solution: Replace the seat belt retractors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1997 Plymouth Neon is a relatively reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems are overheating, blown head gaskets, shifting problems, worn suspension bushings, and electrical faults. The cost of repairs can vary depending on the severity of the issue, but overall, the Neon is an affordable car to maintain.