2003 Dodge Neon

2003 Dodge Neon

The 2003 Dodge Neon is a compact car that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The standard engine was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 132 horsepower and 160 pound-feet of torque. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 150 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque was optional. Both engines were available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

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

Engine

• 2.0L
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, misfires
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.4L
  • Timing belt failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace timing belt
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-speed manual
  • Clutch failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears
    • Solution: Replace clutch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-speed automatic
  • Transmission fluid leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from pan or lines
    • Solution: Repair or replace transmission fluid pan or lines
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front struts
  • Strut mount failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, vibration, reduced handling
    • Solution: Replace strut mounts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shocks
  • Shock absorber failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, handling, stability
    • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery
  • Battery failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Car will not start, weak battery
    • Solution: Replace battery
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Starter
  • Starter solenoid failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Car will not start, clicking noise
    • Solution: Replace starter solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Interior

• Dashboard
  • Dashboard cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on dashboard
    • Solution: Replace dashboard
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Door handles
  • Door handle failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks or becomes loose
    • Solution: Replace door handle
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Dodge Neon is a relatively reliable car with few major issues. However, it is important to be aware of the potential problems listed above. The cost to fix these issues can range from minor to major, so it is important to factor this into your decision when purchasing a Neon.