1999 Dodge Neon

Introduction to the 1999 Dodge Neon

The 1999 Dodge Neon was a subcompact sedan offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.0-liter inline-four producing 132 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 2.4-liter inline-four, producing 150 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque, was optional. Transmission options included a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic.

The Neon was praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and sporty handling. However, it was also criticized for its cramped interior, poor build quality, and lack of features.

Engine

2.0-liter Inline-Four

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine burns excessive oil, requiring frequent top-ups or leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace piston rings and valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The gasket between the intake manifold and the cylinder head fails, causing vacuum leaks and performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4-liter Inline-Four

• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt, which synchronizes the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft, can fail and cause catastrophic engine damage if not replaced regularly.
  • Solution: Replace timing belt and related components (water pump, tensioner, etc.) per recommended maintenance intervals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Transmission Grinding or Difficulty Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission grinds or becomes difficult to shift, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild transmission components (synchronizers, gears, linkage, etc.)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping or Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips or hesitates when shifting gears, causing poor acceleration and performance.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild transmission (torque converter, clutches, etc.)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mounts Failing
  • Description/Symptoms: The rubber mounts that connect the strut to the chassis fail, causing rattling, vibration, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension sags, causing the vehicle to sit lower and affecting handling.
  • Solution: Replace rear springs or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails to generate electricity, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to stall.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Test and replace battery, or identify and disconnect sources of excessive electrical draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Bulb Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight bulbs burn out prematurely.
  • Solution: Replace headlight bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material cracks and disintegrates in the sun and heat.
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or cover it with a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Dodge Neon has several known issues, affecting the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, and interior components. While some of these issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be severe and costly to repair. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific problem and the vehicle’s condition.