2004 Dodge Neon
2004 Dodge Neon
Overview
The 2004 Dodge Neon, a compact car offered in both sedan and coupe body styles, aimed to provide an affordable and sporty driving experience. It featured a range of powertrain options designed to balance performance and fuel economy. While generally considered a budget-friendly option, like many vehicles of its era, 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)
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seals.
- Cost: $150 - $350
Cooling System Issues
- Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, heater not working.
- Solution: Replacement of radiator, thermostat, water pump, or hoses.
- Cost: $200 - $600
2.0L DOHC (16V) - SRT-4
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whining noise from turbo.
- Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the turbocharger.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Clutch Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
- Cost: $500 - $900
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
Harsh Shifting / Slipping
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, transmission slipping out of gear, delayed engagement.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $1500+
5-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Strut Mount Bearing Failure
- Symptoms: Popping or creaking noise when turning the steering wheel.
- Solution: Replacement of strut mount bearings.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
Intermittent Electrical Gremlins
- Symptoms: Various non-start issues, power window malfunctions, interior light problems.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Alternator
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Battery warning light illuminated, dimming headlights, dead battery.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $300 - $500
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
Rust and Corrosion
- Symptoms: Visible rust on fenders, rocker panels, and wheel wells, especially in areas with road salt.
- Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or replacement of affected panels.
- Cost: $200 - $1000+
Headlight Lenses
Clouding and Yellowing
- Symptoms: Reduced headlight visibility, hazy appearance of the plastic lenses.
- Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
- Cost: $50 - $250
Interior
HVAC System
Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), no air flow from vents.
- Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Seat Fabric
Premature Wear
- Symptoms: Tearing or thinning of seat fabric, especially on driver’s side.
- Solution: Seat cover installation or professional upholstery repair.
- Cost: $50 - $300
Summary Verdict
The 2004 Dodge Neon presents a mixed reliability profile. While its simpler mechanical components, like the manual transmission and standard chassis, tend to be robust, owners should be aware of potential issues with the automatic transmission, engine oil leaks, and electrical gremlins, particularly those related to the BCM. The SRT-4 variant, while offering performance, introduces concerns like turbocharger wear and clutch issues. Exterior rust can be a concern in certain climates. Overall, the Neon can be a cost-effective vehicle if well-maintained, but potential buyers should factor in the possibility of addressing common repair items.