2000 Dodge Neon
2000 Dodge Neon
Overview
The 2000 Dodge Neon, a compact car from Chrysler, offered a sporty design and decent fuel economy for its era. It was available with a few engine and transmission choices, catering to different driving preferences. While generally considered an affordable option, like many vehicles of its vintage, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical problems, excluding routine maintenance, to provide a clearer picture of its long-term reliability.
Engine
2.0L SOHC (16V)
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of the head gasket and potentially resurfacing the cylinder head.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
- Cost: $200 - $600
2.0L DOHC (16V) - High Output
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of the head gasket and potentially resurfacing the cylinder head.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
- Cost: $200 - $600
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Clutch Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch kit (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
- Cost: $600 - $1000
Synchronizer Issues
- Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting, difficulty engaging gears.
- Solution: Internal transmission repair or replacement.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Slipping
- Symptoms: Delayed engagement, engine revs without acceleration, harsh shifting.
- Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
- Cost: $400 - $2000
Torque Converter Problems
- Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or failure to engage.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $700 - $1200
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Strut Mount Failure
- Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning, rough ride.
- Solution: Replacement of strut mounts.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
Intermittent Electrical Failures
- Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, door locks, interior lights, or dashboard warning lights.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $500 - $1000
Alternator
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels and Paint
Rust and Corrosion
- Symptoms: Visible rust spots, particularly on wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows.
- Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or rust prevention treatments.
- Cost: $300 - $1500+
Door Lock Actuators
Failure of Power Door Locks
- Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking with the remote or switch.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty door lock actuators.
- Cost: $150 - $300 per door
Interior
HVAC System
Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only coming from certain vents.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or resistor.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Dashboard Materials
Cracking Dashboard
- Symptoms: Visible cracks on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair (often cosmetic).
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Summary Verdict
The 2000 Dodge Neon, while offering an engaging driving experience for its class, exhibits common reliability concerns typical of vehicles from this era. The most frequently reported issues revolve around the engine, particularly head gasket failures and oil leaks, which can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, especially with the automatic variants, are also noted. Suspension components like ball joints and tie rods can wear out, leading to steering and noise issues. Electrical gremlins, often stemming from the Body Control Module or alternator, can cause frustrating intermittent problems. Exterior rust can be a significant concern depending on the vehicle’s climate history. Interior issues like HVAC blower motor failure and dashboard cracking are also present. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect these areas and factor in potential repair costs.