2004 Dodge Neon
Vehicle Introduction
The 2004 Dodge Neon is a compact sedan offered with two engine and transmission options:
- 2.0L SOHC I4 engine with 132 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed automatic transmission.
- 2.4L DOHC I4 engine with 150 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The Neon is known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling. However, it has been criticized for its lack of interior space, cheap materials, and outdated design.
Engine
2.0L SOHC I4 Engine
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold area, engine overheating, loss of coolant or oil. Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
2.4L DOHC I4 Engine
Timing Chain Guide Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling or ticking noises, reduced engine power, check engine light. Solution: Replace timing chain guide. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Clutch Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch, grinding noises when shifting. Solution: Replace clutch assembly. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ Recalls: None Found
3-Speed Automatic Transmission No Issues Found
4-Speed Automatic Transmission Transmission Slipping Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or slipping when shifting gears, loss of power, check engine light. Solution: Replace or rebuild transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Front Struts Failure Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise from front suspension, bouncy or unstable ride, uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace front struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, flickering dashboard lights, battery not charging. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Trunk Lid Corrosion Description/Symptoms: Rust or corrosion around the trunk lid. Solution: Replace trunk lid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ Recalls: None Found
Interior
Power Window Switch Failure Description/Symptoms: Windows not working properly, intermittent operation of power windows. Solution: Replace power window switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per window Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2004 Dodge Neon has a few notable reliability issues, particularly with the 2.4L DOHC I4 engine and the 4-speed automatic transmission. However, many of these issues can be addressed with relatively inexpensive repairs, making the Neon a budget-friendly option for those willing to accept its drawbacks.