2020 Dodge Neon

Alright, here is a comprehensive list of potential issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2020 Dodge Neon, categorized by major components, and addressing different engine/transmission configurations where applicable.

The 2020 Dodge Neon, while not sold in the United States, is a compact sedan primarily marketed in Mexico and the Middle East. It is essentially a rebadged Fiat Tipo. It is available with a 1.6L inline-4 producing around 110 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque, and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Neon for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior for its class. Downsides often cited include its somewhat uninspired driving dynamics, basic interior materials, and limited availability of advanced features compared to some competitors.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include the need to add oil regularly, blue exhaust smoke (indicating burning oil), and potentially low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Addressing excessive oil consumption can involve several steps depending on the root cause. Potential solutions include replacing valve stem seals, piston rings, or even the entire engine if the problem is severe. An engine flush may help with clogged oil control rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on the severity and repair needed).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idle/Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of rough idling, hesitation upon acceleration, and in some cases, complete stalling.
  • Solution: The problem could be related to a dirty throttle body, faulty mass airflow sensor (MAF), or issues with the fuel injectors. Cleaning the throttle body, replacing the MAF sensor, or cleaning/replacing the fuel injectors may resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the component needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Complaints of harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears (typically 1-2 or 2-3). Also reports of hesitation or delay when accelerating or downshifting.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may sometimes address the issue. In other cases, a transmission fluid flush or replacement of faulty solenoids within the transmission might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the extent of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of early wear and tear of suspension components such as struts, shocks, and bushings. Symptoms may include excessive bouncing, clunking noises over bumps, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn suspension components. This may involve replacing struts, shocks, bushings, or a combination thereof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the components needing replacement and labor costs).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system sometimes exhibits glitches such as freezing, lagging, or failure to respond to touch inputs. Bluetooth connectivity issues are also reported.
  • Solution: A software update to the infotainment system can often resolve the issue. In some cases, a hard reset or replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update is available) - $500+ (if unit replacement is required)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (O2 Sensor)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oxygen sensor failures are fairly common on modern cars. They often present with a check engine light, poor fuel economy, and rough running conditions.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty O2 sensor. It’s recommended to replace them in pairs to maintain proper air/fuel mixture ratios.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on sensor location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises in the Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Many owners have reported annoying rattling noises emanating from within the dashboard, especially when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: The solution typically involves locating the source of the rattle and using foam padding or shims to dampen the vibrations. This may require disassembling parts of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the complexity of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Dodge Neon, while offering affordability and practicality, appears to have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine-related concerns like excessive oil consumption and rough idling are significant, potentially leading to costly repairs. Transmission issues, such as harsh shifting, are also a recurring theme. Electrical and interior problems, while less severe, can still be bothersome. Overall, while the Neon can be a budget-friendly option, a thorough inspection and awareness of these potential problems are crucial before making a purchase.