2000 Dodge Neon

The 2000 Dodge Neon was a compact car known for its relatively sporty handling and affordable price. It came with a 2.0L inline-4 engine. The base 2.0L SOHC engine produced 132 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque. The higher-performance 2.0L DOHC engine produced 150 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 3-speed automatic. Owners often praised the Neon’s fuel efficiency and peppy engine (especially the DOHC version). Common complaints included a cheap interior, reliability issues, and road noise.

Engine

2.0L SOHC Inline-4

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil, bubbles in the coolant reservoir.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket and inspect/resurface the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the location and complexity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, hard shifting, delayed engagement, or complete failure to shift.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and filter replacement might help. However, more severe cases may require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (fluid change/filter); $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, clutch pedal sticking, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, nose diving during braking.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the broken coil spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per spring)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, no start condition, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, stalling, dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Removal of rust and body panel replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Large cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Replacing the entire dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2000 Dodge Neon, while appreciated for its handling and fuel economy, is prone to several common issues, primarily related to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Engine problems like head gasket failures and oil leaks can be moderately expensive to repair. Transmission issues, especially with the automatic transmission, can lead to costly repairs or replacements. Suspension components wear out over time and the electrical components may have issues as the vehicle ages. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing a 2000 Dodge Neon.