2001 Plymouth Neon

The 2001 Plymouth Neon was a compact car offered in sedan and coupe body styles. It was known for its relatively sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The engine options included a 2.0L SOHC inline-4 producing 132 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque and a 2.0L DOHC inline-4 producing 150 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission. Common criticisms of the Neon included its somewhat cheap interior materials, road noise, and reliability issues. The car was praised for its nimble handling and simple maintenance.

Engine

2.0L SOHC Inline-4

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall unexpectedly, run rough, or fail to start. The check engine light may illuminate with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall unexpectedly, run rough, or fail to start. The check engine light may illuminate with a code related to the camshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Visible oil leaks, low oil level, and a burning oil smell may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to the age of the vehicle the timing belt can have dry rot and crack causing it to fail. If the timing belt fails, the engine may stall or not start, and significant engine damage may occur, potentially requiring engine replacement.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting between gears, slipping, or harsh shifting. The transmission may also make unusual noises.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is required to determine the cause, which could range from low fluid level to a worn-out transmission. A rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ depending on repair or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, or a soft/spongy clutch pedal.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may operate intermittently or fail to function altogether.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight/Taillight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights or taillights may fail to illuminate or flicker.
  • Solution: Replace the bulb or check the wiring and connectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $100+ depending on the complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is prevalent in areas prone to moisture and road salt, such as rocker panels, wheel wells, and the undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, often made of plastic, can become brittle and break.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material may crack due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material may detach from the roof and sag.
  • Solution: Re-glue the headliner or replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Plymouth Neon, while appreciated for its handling and fuel economy, suffers from a range of issues primarily related to its age. Engine problems such as sensor failures and oil leaks are common. Transmission issues can also arise, particularly with the automatic. Suspension wear and tear is to be expected in older vehicles. Electrical issues and rust are also concerns. The severity and cost of these repairs vary greatly. Buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase.