1997 Dodge Neon Sport 1.9 Liter SOHC

Summary:

Good looker, engine needs help

Faults:

Where do I start.

Of course I had the usual head gasket problem shortly after I purchased the car, however I was able to get in contact with Dodge through my dealer. They admitted they knew it was a problem and offered to help pay for it, so while my friend had to pay about $800.00 to get his fixed, I only paid $200.00.

The radiator fan relay stopped working causing the car to overheat when stopped in traffic.

The main computer or "brain" of the car went haywire and the car would stall as I was driving down the road at highway speeds, that was another $500.00+

I just recently had to replace the starter after it left me stranded in a parking lot, $140.00.

Finally, once again the car is leaking oil like crazy, I haven't had it checked out yet, but the oil change place said it looks like it's coming from... you guessed it... the head gasket!

General Comments:

I have owned the car for over 100,000 miles now, and I do have to say that for the MOST part it's been pretty reliable.

The problems seem to be getting worse the more miles I put on it, which can only be expected.

There are a lot of "after-market" parts that you can add to the Neon which make it attractive to the teenager.

The looks of the car are the best feature, mine has a spoiler, a sunroof, fog lamps, and looks great when waxed, but the motor could use a little help.

I have never had a problem with the transmission.

My wife hates the car, although she agrees it looks good.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 10th March, 2004

1997 Dodge Neon sedan 2.0 soh

Summary:

A reliable and efficient vehicle that car buyers should consider

Faults:

Currently has 90,000 miles on it and is starting to need some mechanical attention, that is such of any economy vehicle.

The only problems I have had are that the break shoes wear more often than usual.

When I purchased my Neon it had ignition electrical malfunctions. The dealer made repairs under warranty.

Engine has some oil starting to appear on back underside of motor, appears to be leaking gaskets.

General Comments:

The dodge Neon in my opinion is a very cost efficient vehicle which is very sporty for the price.

It is a vehicle which needs regular maintenance and if not neglected is a very reliable vehicle.

The Neon is cheap to insure and handles very well in wintry conditions in my opinion.

I know that everyday I can rely on it to start and get me back and forth to work.

Also at 30+ gallons per mile, what is there to complain about?

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th March, 2004

1997 Dodge Neon Highline Coupe

Summary:

This car is a horrible waste of money

Faults:

Oil plug has been found stripped 4 times since I have purchased the car.

Leaks oil almost once a year.

Engine power has declined dramatically.

Brakes consistently need repair.

Overheats driving 3 miles in 60 degree weather.

General Comments:

The car had great power at time of purchase and now can't seem to get across the street.

Every time I have brought the car in for something small (ie. oil change, brake repair) the repair shop finds numerous things wrong. The bill will go from $20 to over $1000 in seconds, by no fault of the repair shop. I cringe when I have to bring it in for anything, even a car wash.

The car makes horrible sounds and I am afraid that if I drive it, it will fall apart right on the road.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 4th March, 2004

1997 Dodge Neon Sedan

Summary:

Worst Car Ever

Faults:

At 47,000 miles, two of the speakers blew.

At 49,000 miles, the engine blew. It cost over three grand to fix it.

At 50,000 miles, the A/C stopped working. I don't plan to fix this. Hopefully this junk of a lemon will be sold by the time the East Coast warms up again.

At 51,000 miles, the gas mileage went from OK to awful.

At 52,000 miles, the Check Engine light came on. I haven't been to the shop yet to get it fixed, but I'm *not* looking forward to it.

General Comments:

My Ex had a Neon. She loved it. When I needed a new car, she suggested a Neon. The day after I bought mine, her head gasket blew. She had less than 60,000 miles on the car.

It's roomy enough inside.

I can't wait to get rid of this car, it was the worst mistake I've ever made.

I've put more money into this car in a year and a half than my sister has put into her car in five years. And if I fixed everything that needs fixing, I could buy a new car for less!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 15th February, 2004

19th Feb 2004, 12:34

I feel bad for you, my neon is great--130 000 km on it and it runs great!

4th Dec 2005, 14:58

Mine has 200k on it, and still runs smoothly even tho my gearbox needs some attention.