2001 Chrysler Neon

The 2001 Chrysler Neon was a compact car known for its sporty handling and affordability. It was available with two engine options: a 2.0L SOHC 4-cylinder engine producing 132 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 3-speed automatic. Owners often praised its fuel efficiency and fun driving experience, but criticized its reliability, build quality, and road noise.

Engine

2.0L SOHC 4-Cylinder

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
  • Solution: Replace the head gasket. Surface the cylinder head to ensure proper sealing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil dripping from the engine, visible oil on the engine block, low oil level. Common areas for leaks are the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the location.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC 4-Cylinder

• No Issues Found

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, failure to shift properly, jerking or banging during shifts.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid and filter. If the problem persists, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid and filter change) - $2000+ (rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. It’s often recommended to resurface or replace the flywheel as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, poor handling, premature tire wear, clunking noises over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Worn Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower on one side, uneven tire wear, clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light on.
  • Solution: Replace the CKP sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not working, slow operation, intermittent operation. Often caused by a failing window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor and/or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels. Treat affected areas to prevent further rust.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming in the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (dashboard cover) - $1000+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric detaching from the roof and sagging down.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Chrysler Neon, while appreciated for its affordability and handling, suffers from a range of reliability issues. The most common problems include engine issues such as head gasket failures and oil leaks, transmission problems (especially with the automatic transmission), suspension wear, and electrical glitches. Rust and interior issues are also prevalent. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as head gasket replacements and transmission rebuilds, can be costly. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and carefully inspect any Neon before purchase.